Panama has a more developed sustainable-building framework than most people think. Here's what it requires, verified against official sources.
For new construction, the Sustainable Building Code v.2 2022 (mandatory since August 1, 2023) requires roof and wall insulation, solar control and efficient equipment See. The Sustainable Construction Guide sets comfort at 26 °C and a minimum roof reflectance of 70% See.
| Standard | Authority and date | What it regulates for heat |
|---|---|---|
| Law 69 of 2012 | National Assembly · 2012 | Energy-efficiency framework; covers all buildings. |
| Sustainable Construction Guide | National Energy Secretariat · Resolution 3142 of 2016 | 26 °C comfort target, roof reflectance ≥70%, solar control, 15-20% savings. |
| Law 226 and Decree 142 | 2021 | Design and construction standards; liability and permits. |
| RES v.2 2022 | JTIA · Resolution 002 of 2023 (Official Gazette 29726) | Mandatory: roof and wall insulation, glass, shading, efficient A/C. |
Applying a reflective coating, adding a ceiling, installing a radiant barrier or shading windows are generally maintenance upgrades that don't alter the structure. Even so, any work must respect the permits under Law 226 and Decree 142, and any structural or electrical intervention must be done by a qualified professional. Before major work, it's worth checking requirements with the municipality.
What's left is the specifics: which intervention makes sense for your home. Gallardía diagnoses and installs residential thermal solutions in Panama.
Every important claim links to its evidence. Tap to see the source, its context and its limits: RES Guide Climate. Full bibliography in the evidence library.