The increase of the global energy consumption generated the search for alternative sources of energy, including solar. This study aims to identify the current stage and the possibilities of the application of solar water heating for industrial processes and to characterize the current state of the solar sector in Brazil. This study is based on bibliographic review and secondary data. The findings indicate that the use of solar water heating is a viable alternative for industrial processes in Brazil, mainly in the sectors of food, beverages, textiles and chemicals. The industrial sector is big and one of the largest final consumer of electricity; although, the Brazilian development programs for the use of solar energy stimulate residential applications, a contradiction. The research also indicates that there is a lack of professionals specialized in renewable energies to work with solar heating systems in Brazil.