Review of Zero Energy Building Concept-Definition and Developments in Latin America: A Framework Definition for Application in Panama

In recent decades, European countries have developed concepts, definitions, and construction technologies for Zero Energy Building (ZEB) that are effective correspond to their specific climates. Latin American still trying find adequate solutions which respond the local climatic, cultural, social, technical, economic context. As such, this paper aims establish basis of minimum energy efficiency renewable threshold definition ZEB in order better understand application Panama, based on assessing regulations implemented Panama. To achieve aim, a review concentrated concept-definition implementation adopted by is presented first before converges into defining framework Finally, case-study-based theoretical proposing Panama discussed. The results study showed net primary balance, range falls plus building definition, indicating all cases studied could supply electricity needs using Photovoltaic generation. All dwellings potential become building, depending available roof surface area. strengths, weaknesses, opportunities threats analysis assess support introduction such framework.