중남미

This paper analyses the housing situation in Chile according to energy efficiency, in order to propose improvements, in particular for reconstruction housing programmes post-earthquake of 2010. The study is targeted to the central-south zone of the country, between Maule and Araucanía region; which has been mostly affected by the seismic activity. It reviews climatic conditions, as well as shape and constructive features, in order to identify feasible improvements for energy efficiency. Based on that analysis, it states some housing design properties, in particular related to arrangements and envelope materials with great incidence on the environmental performance. A simple assessment of the costs associated to these improvements is made. The work concludes that a more efficient construction is determined by the correct analysis of climatic conditions for the energy requirements, to identify proper shapes and a quality of envelope. It demonstrates that modifications of housing design, location and construction can be significant in the way to energy efficiency.