ART2025001.pdf

Abstract

In high-altitude regions of the Global South, social housing programs are essential for 14 mitigating vulnerability to low temperatures. However, a gap often exists between the 15 actual thermal performance of these standardized dwellings and their compliance with 16 national energy regulations. This study evaluates the "Sumaq Wasi" adobe housing module 17 in Kunturkanki (Cusco, Peru) during the 2023 frost season, analyzing its regulatory 18 compliance and its capacity to provide thermal comfort. The methodologies of the 19 Peruvian standard EM.110 (2014 version and 2022 draft update) were applied to calculate 20 thermal transmittance and surface condensation risk, while monitored indoor 21 temperatures were benchmarked against adaptive comfort models. The results show 22 widespread non-compliance with thermal transmittance limits for the roof and floor 23 under both standards, although the condensation risk was found to be low. Indoor 24 temperatures failed to meet conventional comfort standards but aligned with regionally 25 documented adaptive comfort ranges. It is concluded that the module's design is 26 insufficient for the local climatic conditions. Therefore, social housing policies must 27 balance regulatory stringency with context-aware bioclimatic design to ensure their 28 effectiveness.