New RETIE Resolution: What Changes in 2024

The Ministry of Mines and Energy published updates to RETIE that directly affect industrial installations. Learn the key changes and how to prepare.

1Background of the Update

The Ministry of Mines and Energy of Colombia published Resolution 40715, which partially amends the Technical Regulation for Electrical Installations (RETIE). This update responds to the need to align national regulations with the most recent international standards.

2Key Changes for Industrial Installations

Industrial installations are the most affected by this reform. Among the most significant changes: new requirements for protection coordination in systems with distributed generation, updated grounding resistance values, and mandatory short-circuit studies updated every 3 years.

3New Emergency Lighting Requirements

The resolution establishes stricter parameters for emergency lighting systems in public and industrial buildings. A minimum illumination level of 50 lux is required on evacuation routes, with a backup autonomy of no less than 90 minutes.

4Grounding and Surge Protection

The concept of equipotential grounding mesh is introduced for installations with equipment sensitive to electrostatic discharge. Additionally, surge protection devices are now mandatory in all distribution panels of commercial and industrial buildings.

5Implementation Deadlines

The resolution establishes an 18-month transition period for existing installations to adapt to the new requirements. New installations must comply with the regulations from the date they come into force.

6Certicheck Recommendations

At Certicheck, we recommend all companies with industrial electrical installations schedule a regulatory compliance audit as soon as possible. Our certified engineers can evaluate your installation and identify gaps against the new regulations.