By Dieter Holger

Southern Co.'s profit and sales beat forecasts in the first quarter as customer energy demand improved faster than expected, spurring earnings growth across its divisions.

The Atlanta-based power company said Thursday that its net income was $1.14 billion in the quarter ended March 31, up from $868 million a year ago. It booked per-share earnings of $1.07, versus last year's 82 cents a share.

Its adjusted earnings were 98 cents a share, beating the average analyst forecast of 83 cents a share, according to FactSet.

Sales rose to $5.91 billion in the quarter from $5.02 billion a year ago. Analysts expected sales of $5.54 billion.

Write to Dieter Holger at dieter.holger@wsj.com; @dieterholger

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

04-29-21 0720ET