The impacts of solar water heating in low-income households on the distribution utility's active, reactive and apparent power demands

► In Brazil 73.1% of all residential units are equipped with 3 to 8 kW resistance-heating showerheads. ► For low-income consumers, electricity tariffs are subsidized, and utilities must invest in infrastructure for a limited return. ► For a distribution utility, electrical showerheads at low-income dwellings with subsidized tariffs are a financial burden. ► Solar heating reduces the active, reactive and apparent power demands by 49%, 29% and 49% respectively.