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Plug Power vs. FuelCell Energy: Which Fuel Cell Stock has Greater Upside?
ZACKS· 2025-07-28 15:56
Core Insights - Plug Power Inc. (PLUG) and FuelCell Energy, Inc. (FCEL) are key players in the fuel cell technology market, focusing on innovative product solutions and electrolysis platforms [1][2] Group 1: Plug Power (PLUG) - PLUG has experienced a high cash burn rate and negative gross margins, with lower revenues from hydrogen equipment sales impacting performance [3][11] - The company is investing in hydrogen plants, anticipating the green hydrogen market to grow to $30 billion by 2030 [4] - PLUG aims to increase green hydrogen production through a new plant in Georgia and a joint venture with Olin Corporation in Louisiana, supported by a $1.66 billion loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy [5][20] - The deployment of proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer systems highlights PLUG's expertise in the sector [6] - Cost management efforts have reduced the cash burn rate by nearly 50% year-over-year in Q1 2025, with Project Quantum Leap targeting over $200 million in annualized savings [7][8] Group 2: FuelCell Energy (FCEL) - FCEL continues to receive orders for clean energy solutions, including a contract for a 7.4 MW fuel cell power plant expected to generate over $160 million in future revenues [9] - The company's backlog reached $1.26 billion, reflecting an 18.7% year-over-year growth [9] - FCEL is restructuring operations to lower costs and enhance its competitive position, despite facing negative gross margins of -26% in the first half of fiscal 2025 [10][11] - The company's long-term debt stands at $124.1 million, raising concerns given its cash and cash equivalents of $116.1 million [12] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FCEL's fiscal 2025 sales is approximately $144.6 million, indicating a year-over-year growth of 28.9% [13] Group 3: Market Performance and Valuation - Over the past three months, Plug Power's shares surged by 91.8%, while FuelCell Energy's stock gained 37.4% [17] - PLUG is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of -4.13X, compared to FCEL's -1.06X [18] - Both companies hold a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), complicating the decision for investors [19]
Plug Power's Equipment Weakness Grows: What's the Road Ahead?
ZACKS· 2025-07-25 15:21
Core Insights - Plug Power Inc. (PLUG) is facing increasing challenges in its core product categories, with a reported 7% year-over-year decrease in revenues from equipment and related infrastructure in Q1 2025 [1][8] Revenue Decline - The decline in revenues is attributed to reduced demand for key product offerings, including hydrogen infrastructure, cryogenic equipment, fuel cell systems (GenDrive), and engineered oil and gas equipment [2] - Hydrogen infrastructure revenues fell by $6.6 million due to only one hydrogen site installation completed compared to three in the same period last year [2] - GenDrive unit sales decreased significantly, with 848 units sold in the quarter compared to 1,298 a year ago, resulting in a $2.3 million revenue reduction [3] - Sales of cryogenic equipment were negatively impacted by slower project progress, while engineered oil and gas equipment sales declined by $2.7 million [3] Future Opportunities - In January 2025, Plug Power signed a three-gigawatt (GW) agreement with Allied Green Ammonia in Australia, indicating rising global demand for green hydrogen, which could help offset the decline in legacy products [4][8] Peer Comparison - Among peers, Flux Power Holdings, Inc. (FLUX) reported revenues of $16.7 million in Q3 2025, with a 16% year-over-year increase driven by strong demand in material handling and ground support markets [5] - Bloom Energy Corporation (BE) saw product and service revenues rise by 26.5% year-over-year, with total revenues surging by 38.6% due to robust demand for solid oxide fuel cell systems [6] Stock Performance - Plug Power's shares have lost 16.9% year-to-date, contrasting with the industry's growth of 13.5% [7] - The company is currently trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of negative 3.89X, significantly lower than the industry average of 23.08X [10] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Plug Power's bottom line for Q2 2025 has increased over the past 60 days, with current estimates showing a loss of $0.15 per share [11][12]
Bloom Energy (BE) Update / Briefing Transcript
2025-07-24 18:00
Bloom Energy (BE) Update Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Bloom Energy (BE) - **Industry**: Fuel Cell Technology Key Points and Arguments 1. **Partnership Announcement**: Bloom Energy announced a partnership with Oracle to power AI data centers using their fuel cell technology, emphasizing the need for reliable and efficient power solutions in data centers [2][3] 2. **Speed and Reliability**: Bloom's fuel cells can power an entire data center within 90 days and deliver 99% uptime, making them a reliable primary power source rather than a backup solution [3][4][10] 3. **Environmental Benefits**: The fuel cells produce clean power with virtually no air pollution and do not consume water, addressing sustainability concerns for data centers [4][42] 4. **Cost Competitiveness**: Bloom has achieved price competitiveness with other energy generation solutions, having undergone an aggressive cost reduction journey over the past five to ten years [13] 5. **Deployment Statistics**: Bloom has deployed 1.5 gigawatts of fuel cells across 1,200 sites, with significant contracts including a landmark deal with AEP for up to one gigawatt of power [15] 6. **Customer Base**: Notable customers include Equinix, which has over 100 megawatts of Bloom's fuel cells in its data centers globally [15] 7. **Key Advantages for Data Centers**: - **Time to Power**: Quick installation and deployment to meet urgent power needs [16] - **Reliability**: Configurable systems that can exceed five nines availability [17] - **Cost Efficiency**: Often more economical than other power options, with significant savings in operational costs [18][36] - **Sustainability**: Non-combustion technology that reduces emissions and supports sustainability goals [18][41] Technical Insights 1. **Fuel Cell Technology**: Bloom's fuel cells are based on solid oxide technology, which is fuel flexible and highly efficient, achieving an average efficiency of 54% [78][66] 2. **Scalability**: The modular design allows for easy scaling, with systems that can be stacked to meet large power demands [12][63] 3. **Operational Flexibility**: The fuel cells can operate in island mode, providing power independently from the grid, and can respond quickly to varying power demands, especially for AI workloads [74][57] 4. **Waste Heat Utilization**: The systems can utilize waste heat for additional applications, enhancing overall efficiency [46][93] Economic Considerations 1. **Cost of Ownership**: Over a five-year project, total cost of ownership can be 15% to 25% lower compared to other solutions, factoring in both capital and operational expenditures [37] 2. **Overbuild Concept**: Bloom's smaller building block size allows for a lower percentage of overbuild to achieve desired reliability levels, reducing capital expenditure [60][62] Additional Insights 1. **Market Trends**: Increasing demand for on-site power solutions in data centers due to growing AI workloads and the inability of utilities to meet power needs [23][24] 2. **Regulatory Advantages**: Bloom's technology may be exempt from certain air permits in jurisdictions with strict regulations, facilitating quicker project approvals [42] 3. **Future Readiness**: The technology is adaptable to future energy landscapes, including the potential for hydrogen use and carbon capture capabilities [46][84] Conclusion Bloom Energy is positioned as a leader in the fuel cell technology space, offering reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly power solutions tailored for the growing demands of data centers, particularly in the context of AI and sustainability initiatives. The company's strategic partnerships and technological advancements further enhance its competitive edge in the market.
Why Shares of Bloom Energy Are Soaring Today
The Motley Fool· 2025-07-24 15:28
Core Insights - Bloom Energy has announced a partnership with Oracle to power data centers, leading to a significant increase in its stock price by 20.2% [1][3] - The partnership will involve Bloom Energy deploying its fuel cell solutions at specific Oracle Cloud Infrastructure data centers in the United States [3][4] - The collaboration aims to provide Oracle with reliable, clean, and cost-efficient power to support its growth strategy, particularly in the context of increasing demand for AI and cloud computing [4][6] Company Developments - Bloom Energy is expected to deliver fuel cell-generated power for an entire data center within 90 days [5] - While the current deal may not be a game changer for Bloom Energy, it positions the company favorably for future partnerships as AI companies invest heavily in data center infrastructure [6] - The deal enhances Bloom Energy's attractiveness to investors seeking exposure to fuel cell technology [7]
Ballard announces order for 6.4 MW to eCap Marine for Samskip vessels
Prnewswire· 2025-07-22 00:30
Core Viewpoint - Ballard Power Systems has secured a significant purchase order for 6.4 MW of fuel cell engines from eCap Marine for deployment on two vessels operated by Samskip, marking a major step in the decarbonization of marine transport [1][2][3] Group 1: Company Overview - Ballard Power Systems specializes in zero-emission PEM fuel cells that enable electrification across various mobility sectors, including marine vessels [4] - The company aims to deliver fuel cell power solutions that contribute to a sustainable planet [4] Group 2: Partnership and Collaboration - The new order continues the collaboration between Ballard Power Systems and eCap Marine, which began in 2021, emphasizing their joint commitment to operational excellence and environmental stewardship [2][3] - eCap Marine focuses on innovative solutions for emission-free shipping, providing comprehensive services from feasibility studies to technical design [7] Group 3: Technical Details - The order includes 32 FCwave™-200 kW engines, which will be integrated into green marine propulsion systems to decarbonize routes between Norway and the Netherlands [2] - Ballard's FCwave™ is the first DNV type-approved fuel cell module for marine applications, ensuring compliance with international safety and design standards [3] Group 4: Support and Validation - The project is supported by ENOVA, Norway's government agency for energy and climate initiatives, highlighting the importance of public-private collaboration in advancing sustainable marine energy solutions [3]
Plug Power Eyes Reducing Cash Burn Rate: Can It Be a Game Changer?
ZACKS· 2025-07-16 14:25
Core Insights - Plug Power (PLUG) has been facing challenges with a high cash burn rate and negative gross margins, necessitating external capital for operational funding [1] - The company initiated Project Quantum Leap in Q1 2025 to improve financial stability and profitability, aiming for over $200 million in annualized savings through restructuring [2][8] - The project is expected to enhance cash flow, reduce cash burn rate, and improve gross margins, with a nearly 50% reduction in cash burn year-over-year reported in Q1 2025 [3][4][8] Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, Plug Power's efforts led to a significant reduction in net loss and operating cash outflow, contributing to a slower cash burn rate [3][4] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PLUG's bottom line for 2025 has seen an increase over the past 60 days, indicating a potential improvement in financial outlook [11] Peer Comparison - FuelCell Energy, a peer of Plug Power, reported cash and cash equivalents of $116.1 million against long-term debt of $17.1 million, with a 21% year-over-year decrease in cash used from operating activities [5] - Bloom Energy, another competitor, had cash and cash equivalents of $794.8 million, significantly higher than its current liabilities, and reported a 24.8% year-over-year decrease in cash used from operating activities [6] Market Position - Plug Power's shares have declined by 28.2% year-to-date, contrasting with the industry's growth of 12.6% [7] - The company is currently trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of negative 3.31X, compared to the industry average of 23.27X, indicating a challenging valuation environment [10]
FuelCell Energy and Inuverse Sign MOU for Data Center Development in Korea, Signaling Growth in Hyperscale and AI Markets
Globenewswire· 2025-07-10 11:30
Core Insights - FuelCell Energy, Inc. and Inuverse have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore deploying up to 100 megawatts (MW) of fuel cell-based power at the AI Daegu Data Center, aiming to make it Korea's largest data center starting in 2027 [1][5] Company Overview - FuelCell Energy specializes in high-efficiency fuel cell platforms that provide clean, reliable energy solutions, helping data centers meet energy and climate goals without operational disruptions [3][7] - The company operates the largest single-site fuel cell park in Korea, with a capacity of 58 MW, showcasing the reliability and commercial readiness of its technology [5] Technological Capabilities - The AI DDC will utilize advanced cooling technologies, including absorption chilling powered by thermal energy from FuelCell Energy's systems, which are designed to reduce operational costs and enhance performance [2][4] - FuelCell Energy's systems are capable of rapid deployment, providing modular, phased, onsite power in months, which is essential for meeting the energy demands of AI and cloud computing [4] Strategic Collaboration - The partnership with Inuverse is expected to expand FuelCell Energy's presence in Asia and demonstrate its ability to support decarbonization and reduce particulate emissions in the digital economy [5][6] - Inuverse aims to address the increasing data processing demands of the AI era while achieving renewable energy and ESG objectives through this collaboration [6][9]
Fuel Cell Tax Perk Could Supercharge Bloom Energy In 2026, Says JPMorgan
Benzinga· 2025-07-09 17:22
Core Viewpoint - JPMorgan analyst Mark Strouse upgraded Bloom Energy Corp to Overweight from Neutral, raising the price forecast from $18 to $33 due to the unexpected eligibility of fuel cells for 48E tax credits under the finalized OBBB legislation, which could enhance revenue and margin expectations starting in fiscal year 2026 [1] Group 1: Revenue and Margin Expectations - The eligibility for 48E tax credits is expected to lead to increased revenue and margin expectations, surpassing the 19% year-over-year increase implied in the midpoint of FY25 guidance [1] - Improved factory utilization and stronger pricing power with data center clients, along with higher volumes from cost-sensitive customers, could further enhance product margins [2][3] Group 2: Financial Projections - Strouse projects FY26 pro forma EBITDA of $420 million on $2.21 billion in revenue, compared to $275 million on $2.04 billion this year, with Street estimates at $319 million and $2.09 billion respectively [4] Group 3: Market Sentiment and Risks - Bloom Energy's second-quarter commentary is viewed as more positive than peers following the finalization of the OBBB, although uncertainty remains around safe harbor provisions from the July 7 Executive Order, which may affect investor sentiment in solar and wind [4] - Potential risks include the absence of a permanent CFO, which could shift priorities towards growth over profitability, and the possibility of customers deferring FY25 orders to take advantage of the 48E credits starting in January 2026 [5]
Why Bloom Energy Stock Popped Today
The Motley Fool· 2025-07-09 15:42
Group 1 - Bloom Energy stock has seen a significant increase, with a 15.5% rise on the day and a potential target price of $33 set by J.P. Morgan, indicating an additional 18% upside over the next 12 months [1][3] - J.P. Morgan's optimism is driven by the maintenance of 48E tax credits in the recent legislation, which is expected to enhance profit margins and stimulate fuel cell system deployments, thereby increasing revenue for Bloom Energy [3][4] - The anticipated financial benefits from the tax credits are expected to start reflecting in Bloom's results by fiscal year 2026, with potential guidance improvements as early as the upcoming Q2 earnings report on July 31 [4] Group 2 - Despite the positive outlook, Bloom Energy's stock is considered expensive, trading at a P/E ratio exceeding 1,000, even though the company achieved profitability in Q4 of the previous year [5] - The company generated positive free cash flow of approximately $77 million over the last 12 months, resulting in a high price-to-free cash flow ratio of 73, which raises concerns about the stock's valuation even with projected profit growth of 25% annually [6]
Bloom Energy Stock Surges on Analyst Praise
Schaeffers Investment Research· 2025-07-09 14:32
Core Viewpoint - Bloom Energy Corp (NYSE:BE) shares have increased by 12.5% to $27.33 following an upgrade from J.P. Morgan, which raised its rating to "overweight" and increased the price target from $18 to $33, citing factors such as fuel cell tax credits and higher factory absorption [1] Group 1 - The stock's 12-month consensus target price is $23.56, indicating a 14.2% discount to current levels, suggesting potential for further bullish sentiment from other firms [2] - A significant short interest exists, with 24.1% of the stock's available float sold short, equating to nearly nine days of buying power [2] - Bloom Energy is experiencing its best single-day percentage gain since November and has reached its highest level since February, supported by the 20-day moving average [3] Group 2 - The stock has gained 23.5% year-to-date in 2025, indicating strong performance [3] - Options trading activity is notably high, with 9,524 calls traded, which is four times the typical volume, compared to only 1,496 puts [3] - The Schaeffer's Volatility Index (SVI) for Bloom Energy is at 33%, in the 12th percentile of the past 12 months, suggesting lower-than-usual volatility expectations [4]