Africa’s electricity giant records first profit in 8 years

The state-owned company posted a profit of R16 billion for the financial year ending March 2025, a sharp reversal from the R55 billion loss recorded the previous year.

Load-shedding days plummeted from 300 to just 13 in 1 year

Analysts say this improvement has helped restore some confidence in the company’s operations, though many challenges remain.

“This is a significant step forward for Eskom and the economy at large,” the company said in a statement, noting that the profits will be channelled into reinvestments in electricity infrastructure to bolster supply stability.

The improvement comes after years of rolling blackouts that have hindered South Africa’s economic growth and compelled the government to undertake repeated bailouts of the utility. Power shortages have not only hurt businesses but also drained state resources.

Municipal debts cast shadow over Eskom’s fragile recovery

These municipalities and metropolitan areas are facing mounting financial strain, leaving Eskom vulnerable to fresh instability.

Economists warn that while the profit marks a breakthrough, it should not be seen as the end of the utility’s woes. They said Eskom’s recovery is still fragile, adding that reforms, debt management, and infrastructure investment will determine whether the profit is sustainable.

For now, Eskom’s turnaround has provided a rare glimmer of hope in South Africa’s energy sector; however, the real test will be ensuring a consistent electricity supply and financial discipline in the years ahead.