Plug Power Stock Surges 82% Amid Hydrogen Energy Bill Optimism

Plug Power Inc.'s NASDAQ-listed shares (PLUG) rallied 28% in a single trading session, peaking at $1.56 before closing at $1.49. The hydrogen energy specialist has gained 82% over 30 days, catapulting from penny-stock territory above the $1 threshold. Day traders capitalized on the volatility, while buy-and-hold investors saw 80% returns.

The surge follows legislative tailwinds from the proposed 'Big, Beautiful Bill' in Congress, which includes tax credits for hydrogen manufacturers. Market sentiment lifted across the clean energy sector despite Plug Power's fundamental challenges—the company continues operating at a loss while burning cash to maintain operations.

Analysts caution that PLUG remains a high-risk speculative play. The rally appears momentum-driven rather than fundamentals-based, with traders betting on continued policy support for alternative energy initiatives. Volatility is expected to persist as the bill progresses through legislative channels.