Eskom is regulated under licences granted by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) originally under the Electricity Act (41 of 1987) (to be replaced by licences under the Electricity Regulation Act (4 of 2006) and by the National Nuclear Regulator in terms of the National Nuclear Regulatory Act (47 of 1999).

Through its subsidiary Eskom Enterprises (Pty) Limited, Eskom is also active in local unregulated markets and various African countries. These activities include the provision of electricity-related services to countries connected to the South African grid. Eskom's core markets are, in order of priority, South Africa, the SADC and the rest of Africa. Eskom Enterprises (Pty) Limited is the holding company of Rotek and Roshcon. They now focus on Eskom's core activities, playing a critical role in repairs, refurbishment and the expansion programme.

The core businesses of subsidiaries, Eskom Finance Company (Pty) Limited, Escap Limited and Gallium Insurance Company Limited include the granting of employee home loans and the management and insurance of business risk. The mortgage book of Eskom Finance Company was largely securitised during the financial year. The planned disposal of this company is expected in the next financial year. Eskom's corporate social investment is channelled principally through the Eskom Development Foundation, a section 21 company.