Why Has Plug Power Stock Popped 163% in 5 Weeks?

Core Insights - Plug Power has experienced a significant turnaround in investor sentiment, with shares rising 163% over five weeks, reaching a 52-week high of $4.58 per share on October 6 [1][2]. Financial Performance - In its last earnings release in August, Plug Power reported a 21% year-over-year revenue growth and an improvement in gross margin from negative 92% in Q2 2024 to negative 31% in Q2 2025 [4]. - The company anticipates exiting 2025 with positive gross margin run rates, indicating that Q4 sales should cover production costs [4]. Business Strategy - Plug Power's strategic shift from hydrogen fuel cell forklifts to electrolyzers has resulted in a more than tripled revenue from electrolyzers, reaching approximately $45 million year-over-year in Q2 [5]. - The company is focusing on building green hydrogen plants to reduce reliance on external purchases and aims to become a vertically integrated entity [5]. Market Developments - The stock surged further on October 1 after Plug Power delivered its first 10 megawatt electrolyzer to Galp's Sines refinery in Portugal, marking the largest deal for the company worldwide [6]. - This deal is expected to open more opportunities for Plug Power in Europe, with analysts noting that the overall shift to alternative energy sources could significantly benefit the company [7]. Analyst Outlook - H.C. Wainwright analyst Amit Dayal upgraded Plug Power's price target from $3 to $7 per share, suggesting a 70% upside potential from current levels around $4.10 [7]. - Rising electricity prices in the U.S. may increase demand for green hydrogen, further supporting Plug Power's growth prospects [8].