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Plug Power vs. Ballard Power: Which Fuel Cell Stock has Greater Upside?
ZACKS· 2025-12-24 17:46
Core Viewpoint - Plug Power Inc. (PLUG) and Ballard Power Systems Inc. (BLDP) are key players in the clean energy market, focusing on hydrogen fuel cell solutions for various sectors [1][2] Group 1: Plug Power Analysis - Plug Power has shown revenue growth of 11% and 21% in the first two quarters of 2025, with a 2% year-over-year increase in Q3 2025, driven by demand for electrolyzers and hydrogen fuel sales [3][4] - The company is expanding its GenEco proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, with plans to mobilize over 230 MW across North America, Europe, and Australia [4][5] - Despite growth, Plug Power faces challenges with a gross margin of negative 67.9% in Q3 2025 and significant cash outflows totaling $387.2 million in the first nine months of the year [7][8] Group 2: Ballard Power Analysis - Ballard Power reported a 120% year-over-year revenue increase in Q3 2025, reaching $32.5 million, supported by strong order intake for PEM fuel cell products [9][10] - The company has a healthy order backlog of $132.8 million and has successfully reduced operating expenses by 36% year-over-year [10][13] - Ballard Power exited Q3 2025 with cash and cash equivalents of $525.7 million, indicating a strong liquidity position to support future growth [14] Group 3: Sales Estimates and Valuation - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Plug Power's 2025 sales is $701.8 million, reflecting an 11.6% year-over-year growth, while Ballard Power's estimate is approximately $95.6 million, indicating a 37.2% increase [15][16] - Both companies are currently trading at a negative forward price-to-earnings ratio, reflecting ongoing challenges in profitability [20] Group 4: Conclusion - Plug Power's long-term potential is supported by its position in the green hydrogen market and innovative projects, but short-term challenges may hinder performance [21] - Ballard Power's strong momentum, product innovation, and solid liquidity position suggest it may be a more favorable investment option compared to Plug Power at this time [22][23]