Work

Regulatory Gap Versus Performance Reality: Thermal Assessment of a Social Housing Module in the Peruvian Andes

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In high-altitude regions of the Global South, social housing programs are essential for mitigating vulnerability to low temperatures. However, a gap often exists between the actual thermal performance of these standardized dwellings and their compliance with national energy regulations. This study evaluates the "Sumaq Wasi" adobe housing module in Kunturkanki (Cusco, Peru) during the 2023 frost season, analyzing its regulatory compliance and its capacity to provide thermal comfort. The methodologies of the Peruvian standard EM.110 (2014 version and 2022 draft update) were applied to calculate thermal transmittance and surface condensation risk, while monitored indoor temperatures were benchmarked against adaptive comfort models. The results show widespread non-compliance with thermal transmittance limits for the roof and floor under both standards, although the condensation risk was found to be low. Indoor temperatures failed to meet conventional comfort standards but aligned with regionally documented adaptive comfort ranges. It is concluded that the module's design is insufficient for the local climatic conditions. Therefore, social housing policies must balance regulatory stringency with context-aware bioclimatic design to ensure their effectiveness.

Source: Buildings

DOI: 10.3390/buildings15244401

Authors: Emilio Palomino Olivera, Miriam Ancco Peralta, Víctor Manuel Salas Velásquez, Enrique Mejía-Solis, Edwin Roberto Gudiel Rodríguez

Institutions: National University of Saint Anthony the Abbot in Cuzco, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

Language: English

Topic: Building Energy and Comfort Optimization

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137