The Motley Foolยท2025-07-09 08:10Core Viewpoint - D-Wave Quantum, QuantumScape, and Plug Power are highlighted as companies with potential upside in the quantum computing and clean energy sectors, despite varying challenges and market conditions. D-Wave Quantum - D-Wave's stock has experienced significant volatility, trading as low as $0.41 in May 2023 and currently around $16, with a market cap of $5.3 billion [1][2] - The company launched a new processor, contributing to its stock rebound, while the quantum computing market is gaining traction and interest rates are declining [2] - D-Wave trades at 140 times next year's projected sales of $38 million and is expected to remain unprofitable for the foreseeable future [2] - The company has over 100 customers and offers quantum annealing tools that optimize workflows and supply chains, running processes to identify the most efficient ones [4][5] - Analysts project D-Wave will generate $74 million in revenue by 2027, but it currently trades at 72 times that estimate, suggesting a high valuation [5] QuantumScape - QuantumScape develops solid-state lithium metal batteries, which offer higher charging speeds, capacities, and thermal resistance compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries [6] - The QSE-5 battery has an energy density of over 800 Wh/L and can be fast-charged from 10% to 80% in under 15 minutes, outperforming current lithium-ion batteries [7] - The company has not yet generated significant revenue but is backed by Volkswagen and plans to commercialize its first battery designs by late 2026 [8] - QuantumScape intends to license its battery designs to other manufacturers, aiming for high-margin revenue from royalties [9] - Analysts expect revenue to grow from $5 million in 2026 to $60 million in 2027, with a potential market cap increase to $6 billion if it meets expectations [10] Plug Power - Plug Power initially aimed to develop hydrogen-powered residential systems but shifted focus to hydrogen fuel cells for warehouse forklifts, attracting major customers like Amazon and Walmart [11] - The company faced a slowdown in 2024 due to sluggish market demand but remains the largest buyer of liquid hydrogen, with over 70,000 fuel cell systems deployed [12] - Plug Power secured a $1.66 billion loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy to fund six green hydrogen manufacturing plants and aims to narrow losses through a cost-cutting initiative [13] - Analysts predict revenue growth from $629 million in 2024 to $1.4 billion in 2027, with a current market cap of $1.7 billion, suggesting significant upside potential if it meets growth expectations [14]