Fluence Energy, Inc. (FLNC) delivered a classic case of "bad quarter, bright future" on Monday, with shares surging after hours despite missing Wall Street's fourth-quarter expectations. The reason? A revenue forecast for fiscal 2026 that made analysts' estimates look downright conservative.

The Quarter That Was

The energy storage company reported earnings of 13 cents per share for Q4, falling short of the 20-cent analyst consensus. Revenue came in at $1.04 billion, missing the Street's $1.38 billion estimate and representing a decline from $1.23 billion in the same period last year.

Not exactly the kind of numbers that typically send a stock higher. But investors were looking ahead, not behind.

The Outlook That Matters

Fluence projected fiscal 2026 revenue between $3.2 billion and $3.6 billion—a range that starts well above the $2.6 billion analysts were expecting. That's the kind of guidance that gets the market's attention.

"We believe we are well-positioned to capitalize on the accelerating demand for energy storage. We achieved $1.4 billion of new orders for the quarter and 13.7% adjusted gross profit margin for the year, both record results for the Company," said Julian Nebreda, Fluence Energy CEO.

Nebreda also highlighted the company's domestic content strategy in the U.S., which he said "continues to drive strong demand, validating our approach and setting us apart in one of the fastest-growing markets globally."

Those record orders—$1.4 billion in a single quarter—help explain why management feels confident about the revenue ramp ahead. Energy storage demand is growing as utilities and grid operators work to integrate more renewable power sources, and Fluence appears to be winning business.

Market Reaction

Fluence Energy stock jumped 12.8% to $17.82 in Monday's extended trading session, a clear sign that investors are willing to look past near-term stumbles when the forward outlook is this strong.