EnergySustainability

South Africa’s Solar Surge Fueled by Industrial Sector, Research Shows

South Africa’s industrial sector has emerged as the primary driver of solar energy adoption, installing double the capacity of independent power producers. Analysts report this private investment has reduced national peak electricity demand by 20% while creating new opportunities for community microgrid development across the continent.

Industrial Sector Leads Solar Expansion

South Africa’s industrial sector has become the dominant force behind the country’s solar energy revolution, according to research presented at the Solar & Storage Live Cape Town 2025 conference. Industry has reportedly installed 4 GW of solar generating capacity to date, representing double the amount installed by the country’s independent power producers for public consumption.

Economy and TradingEnergy Policy

G20 Pledges Continued Support for Developing Nations’ Debt Challenges Amid Rising Concerns

The G20, under South Africa’s leadership, has vowed to maintain focus on debt issues in developing economies, despite concerns over inadequate measures. Reports indicate that while systemic risks are contained, many nations face steep financing costs and limited growth avenues.

G20 Reaffirms Commitment to Debt Sustainability

The Group of 20 major economies, currently chaired by South Africa, has declared that the risk of a widespread debt crisis appears manageable, but numerous low- and middle-income countries continue to grapple with high financing costs and growth constraints. According to reports from the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank in Washington, G20 finance officials issued a statement emphasizing the need for predictable and coordinated debt treatments under the Common Framework.

BusinessEnergy

Eskom Returns to Profitability After 8 Years But Faces Ongoing Operational Challenges

South Africa’s state-owned power utility Eskom has returned to profitability with R23.9-billion pre-tax profit for 2025, marking its first positive financial result since 2017. While reduced loadshedding and operational improvements drove the turnaround, escalating municipal debt and audit qualifications persist as major concerns for the electricity provider’s sustainability.

South Africa’s state-owned enterprise Eskom has achieved a remarkable financial turnaround, reporting R23.9-billion profit before tax for the 2025 financial year – its first profitable result in eight years. Business Leadership South Africa CEO Busi Mavuso welcomed the positive development in her weekly newsletter, noting that the improved performance offers significant benefits for both the power utility and the broader South Africa economy.

Operational Improvements Drive Eskom’s Financial Recovery