QS Energy, Inc.
For the period ended Mar 31, 2026. Filed May 15, 2026.
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A company's report for each of its first three quarters. The financial statements are not audited. It shows how the business has moved since the last annual report, and what management says changed.
Mar 31, 2026 · Filed May 15, 2026
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What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-Q
Period ended 2025-09-30; filed 2025-11-14.
0001683168-25-008440
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-Q
Period ended 2026-03-31; filed 2026-05-15.
0001683168-26-004036
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 105 previous paragraphs and 62 current paragraphs.
38 unchanged; 18 reworded; 5 added; 46 removed; 3 previous and 1 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 2 previous and 1 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (5)
Current report
Available Information
Current report
The multi-phase potential deployment of up to 400 AOT units previously disclosed under the VIPS Distributor Agreement was structured as an aggregate, multi territory framework across VIPS’s priority regions, including India, Malaysia and Ghana, rather than as a country specific order. This multi-territory framework has not yet produced any sales or revenue for the Company. We are now focusing on a potential sale of 150 units as an initial purchase order under the so-called Laksel LOI (discussed below). This represents a defined India focused initial program within our broader framework, targeting the region’s largest crude pipeline market, while the Amended VIPS Distributor Agreement continues to provide the contractual basis for pursuing additional opportunities in other territories, including potential applications in Malaysia where certain offshore to onshore crude transportation systems and related subsea infrastructure may, subject to further engineering evaluation, present longer term deployment use cases for the Company’s AOT technology.
Current report
The Company's commercialization efforts in India, initiated through its collaboration and distribution arrangements with VIPS have progressed with the formalization of a relationship with Laksel Corporation Pte Ltd, which will serve as the designated EPC partner for the region — a role Laksel has held since the inception of the VIPS India initiative by virtue of its regional expertise, longstanding relationships with the Indian public sector oil and gas enterprises, and extensive prior project execution experience across Asia Pacific and the Middle East. As previously reported in Note 13 – Subsequent Events-- of the financial statements attached to our 10-K report filed with the SEC on March 31, 2026, our relationship with Laksel is reflected in the non-binding Laksel LOI. The Laksel LOI outlines a potential large-scale AOT deployment program on crude oil pipeline infrastructure in India but remains subject to financing, other conditions, and definitive documentation. While as of the date of this filing there has been some progress made in the preparation and review of definitive documentation and agreements in furtherance of the Laksel LOI, no such documentation or agreements have been completed, signed, or delivered. We can provide no assurances that such documentation and agreements will be finalized, nor can we provide any assurances that such documentation and agreements will be signed, delivered, or executed.
Current report
Research and development expenses were $2,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2026, compared to $47,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025.
Removed paragraphs (46)
Previous report
Since 2011, the Company transitioned from prototype testing of its AOT technology at the U.S. Department of Energy Rocky Mountain Oilfield Testing Center, Midwest, Wyoming (“RMOTC”), to the design and production of full-scale commercial prototype units. The Company worked in a collaborative engineering environment with multiple energy industry companies to refine the AOT Midstream commercial design to comply with the stringent standards and qualification processes as dictated by independent engineering audit groups and North American industry regulatory bodies. In May 2013, the Company’s first commercial prototype unit known as AOT Midstream, was completed.
Previous report
In 2013, the Company entered into an Equipment Lease/Option to Purchase Agreement (“TransCanada Lease”) with TransCanada Keystone Pipeline, L.P. by its agent TC Oil Pipeline Operations, Inc. ("TransCanada") which agreed to lease and test the effectiveness of the Company’s AOT technology and equipment on one of TransCanada’s operating pipelines. As previously reported in our 10-K report filed with the SEC on March 16, 2015, in June 2014, the equipment was accepted by TransCanada and the lease commenced and the first full test of the AOT equipment on the Keystone pipeline was performed in July 2014 by Dr. Rongjia Tao of Temple University, with subsequent testing performed by an independent laboratory, ATS RheoSystems, a division of CANNON™ (“ATS”) in September 2014. Upon review of the July 2014 test results and preliminary report by Dr. Tao, QS Energy and TransCanada mutually agreed that this initial test was flawed due to, among other factors, the short-term nature of the test, the inability to isolate certain independent pipeline operating factors such as fluctuations in upstream pump station pressures, and limitations of the AOT device to produce a sufficient electric field to optimize viscosity reduction. Subsequent testing by ATS in September 2014 demonstrated viscosity reductions of 8% to 23% depending on flow rates and crude oil types in transit. In its summary report, ATS concluded that i) data indicated a decrease in viscosity of crude oil flowing through the TransCanada pipeline due to AOT treatment of the crude oil; and ii) the power supply installed on our equipment would need to be increased to maximize reduction in viscosity and take full advantage of the AOT technology. We determined more testing would be required to establish the commercial efficacy of our AOT technology. The TransCanada Lease was terminated by TransCanada, effective October 15, 2014. Upon termination of the TransCanada Lease, all equipment was uninstalled, returned, inspected and configured for re-deployment.
Previous report
On July 15, 2014, the Company entered into an Equipment Lease/Option to Purchase Agreement (“Kinder Morgan Lease”) with Kinder Morgan Crude & Condensate, LLC (“Kinder Morgan”) under which Kinder Morgan agreed to lease and test the effectiveness of the Company’s AOT technology and equipment on one of Kinder Morgan’s operating crude oil condensate pipelines. Equipment provided under the Lease included a single AOT Midstream pressure vessel with a maximum flow capacity of 5,000 gallons per minute. The equipment was delivered to Kinder Morgan in December 2014 and installed in March 2015. In April 2015, during pre-start testing, low electrical impedance was measured in the unit, indicating an electrical short. A replacement unit was installed in May 2015. The second unit also presented with low impedance when flooded with crude condensate from Kinder Morgan’s pipeline. Subsequent to design modifications, a remanufactured AOT unit was installed and tested at Kinder Morgan’s pipeline facility in August 2015. Initial results were promising, with the unit operating generally as expected. However, voltage dropped as preliminary tests continued, indicating decreased impedance within the AOT pressure vessel. QS Energy personnel and outside consultants performed a series of troubleshooting assessments and determined that, despite modifications made to the AOT, conductive materials present in the crude oil condensate appeared to be the root cause of the decreased impedance. Based on these results, QS Energy and Kinder Morgan personnel mutually agreed to put a hold on final acceptance of equipment under the lease and suspended in-field testing to provide time to re-test crude oil condensate in a laboratory setting, and thoroughly review and test selected AOT component design and fabrication. Subsequent analysis and testing led to changes in electrical insulation, inlet flow improvements and other component modifications. These design changes were implemented and tested by Industrial Screen and Maintenance (ISM), one of QS Energy's supply chain partners in Casper, Wyoming. Tests performed by ISM at its Wyoming facility indicated significant improvements to system impedance and efficiency of electric field generation.
Previous report
In February 2016, the modified AOT equipment was installed at Kinder Morgan’s facility. Pre-acceptance testing was performed in April 2016, culminating in more than 24 hours of continuous operations. In-field viscosity measurements and pipeline data collected during this test indicated the AOT equipment operated as expected, demonstrating viscosity reductions equivalent to those measured under laboratory conditions. Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (“SCADA”) pipeline operating data collected by Kinder Morgan during this test indicated a pipeline pressure drop reduction consistent with expectations. Results of this test were promising; however, due to the short duration of the test and limited data collection, definitive conclusions regarding the AOT performance and its impact on pipeline operations could not be reached. Based on final analysis of in-field test results, SCADA operating data and subsequent analysis of crude oil condensate samples at Temple University, it became unlikely Kinder Morgan would use the AOT at the original test location or other condensate pipeline. Kinder Morgan expressed interest in AOT operations at one of their heavy crude pipeline locations subject to results of other AOT demonstration projects and provided the Company with additional crude oil samples which have been tested at Temple University for future test correlation and operational planning purposes. The Kinder Morgan Lease is currently in suspension and there are no current plans to resume the lease or reinstall an AOT device at a Kinder Morgan facility.
Previous report
Southern Research Institute (SRI) was engaged by QS Energy in 2015 to investigate the root cause of the crude oil condensate impedance issue by replicating conditions experienced in the field utilizing a laboratory-scaled version of the AOT and crude oil condensate samples provided by Kinder Morgan. In addition, QS Energy retained an industry expert petroleum pipeline engineer to review the AOT design and suggest design modifications to resolve the crude oil condensate impedance issue. This engineer has studied design details, staff reports and forensic photographs of each relevant AOT installation and test. Based on these investigations, specific modifications were proposed to resolve the impedance issue, and improve the overall efficiency of the AOT device, resulting in a new value-engineered design of certain AOT internal components.
Previous report
During the third quarter of 2016, the Company developed an onsite testing program to demonstrate AOT viscosity reduction at prospective customer sites. This program utilized a laboratory-scale AOT device designed and developed by the Company and tested at the Southern Research Institute. Under this program, Company engineers set up a temporary lab at the customer’s site to test a full range of crude oils. Fees charged for providing this service were dependent on scope of services, crude oil sample to be tested, and onsite time requirements. In the fourth quarter 2016, the Company entered a contract to provide these onsite testing services to a North American oil producer and pipeline operator over a one-week period in early 2017 at a fixed price of $50,000. This test was performed in January 2017; data analysis and a final report were completed in March 2017. Test results demonstrated viscosity reduction under limited laboratory conditions. The oil producer requested access to observe a full-scale demonstration facility and view operating data when they become available.
Previous report
Separately, in 2014, the Company began development of a new suite of products based around the new electrical heat system which reduces oil viscosity through a process known as joule heat (“Joule Heat”). The Company built and tested its first Joule Heat prototype in June 2015. The system was operational; however, changes to the prototype configuration would be required to determine commercial effectiveness of this unit. In December 2015, we suspended Joule Heat development activities to focus Company resources on finalizing commercial development of the AOT. We may resume Joule Heat development in the future depending on the availability of sufficient capital and other resources.
Previous report
Also, in July 2017, the Company filed for trademark protection for the word “eDiluent” in advance of rolling out a new marketing and revenue strategy based on the concept of using AOT to reduce pipeline dependence upon diluent to reduce viscosity of crude oils. A primary function of AOT is to reduce viscosity by means of its solid-state electronics technology, in essence providing an electronic form of diluent, or “eDiluent”. Subject to successful testing of our AOT technology and sufficient availability of operating capital, the Company plans to market and sell a value-added service under the name eDiluent, designed to be upsold by the Company’s midstream pipeline customers in an effort to provide the Company with long-term recurring revenues.
Previous report
During the third quarter 2017, the Company built a dedicated laboratory space at its then Tomball, Texas facility, providing onsite testing utilizing our laboratory-scale AOT device, among other equipment. Development of an AOT unit for use in crude oil upstream and gathering operations was restarted in September 2017, utilizing resources at the Tomball, Texas facility. Also, during the third quarter 2017, the Company built an outdoor facility at the Tomball, Texas site for onsite storage of AOT inventory and other large equipment.
Previous report
Throughout 2018 our primary strategic goal was focused on installing and operating a demonstration AOT project on a commercial crude oil pipeline. Much of our time was spent meeting with industry executives and engineers in North and South America and working with local representatives in the Asian and the Middle Eastern markets. In December 2018, we reached mutual agreement with a major U.S.-based pipeline operator on a demonstration project under which we would install and operate our AOT equipment on a crude oil pipeline located in the Southern United States. We believed at the time that the selected project site would be ideal for demonstration purposes, delivering heavy crudes which, based on samples tested at Temple University, and, subject to the discussion below, would experience significant viscosity reduction when treated with our AOT technology.
Previous report
While management focused on finding a partner and finalizing terms of the demonstration project, and in our continuing efforts to commercialize our AOT technology, our engineering team worked throughout 2018 to prepare one of our inventoried AOT units for deployment. All system upgrade, inspections and testing protocols were completed in December 2018. The pipeline operator finalized site selection and began site design and engineering in January 2019, completing site preparation and equipment installation in June 2019. The project was installed within budget, quality compliant, and without safety incidents. The system passed the pre-start safety review, data acquisition signal verifications, and mechanical inspections. Under full crude oil flow, the system was confirmed to have no leaks and no environmental issues were noted. Data collected during the full-flow startup phase confirmed internal differential pressures to be negligible and consistent with design specifications. However, when the system was energized, and the unit was run-up to high-voltage operations, the primary power supply began to operate erratically and had to be taken offline. Subsequent inspection determined the primary power supply had failed.
Previous report
After removing the primary power supply, our engineers reconfigured the system to run off a smaller secondary power supply. Although this unit was not capable of achieving target treatment voltage, we performed limited testing and troubleshooting measures, after which the damaged power supply was shipped to the manufacturer for expedited repair and reconditioning. Inspections performed during the repair process indicated internal power supply components had been physically damaged. Though not definitive, it appears that damage may have occurred during transit prior to initial installation at the demonstration site. While the demonstration project was offline for power supply repairs, our engineering team worked with oil samples pulled from the operating pipeline for testing at our then Tomball laboratory facility. These tests were designed to confirm our target power requirements as accurately as possible and help us fine-tune enhancements planned for a new optimized AOT internal grid pack design we had planned to test at the demonstration site as part of our continuing value engineering effort.
Previous report
During initial testing with the small power supply, current draw was greater than prior field deployments. While it was expected that the small power supply would not achieve treatment voltage, as voltage was increased, actual current draw experienced under test conditions exceeded the operating limit of the power supply. Subsequent laboratory and in-field testing performed at our then Tomball facility showed the electrical conductivity of the oil to be quite high and in line with field observations. Although these tests indicated the unit was generally functioning properly, results further indicated the damaged power supply, once repaired, would not be capable of providing sufficient power to fully treat the crude oil due to the oil’s high electrical conductivity. In anticipation of this result, the Company initiated in advance of testing parallel tasks of: i) installation of the repaired power supply to perform limited testing to confirm laboratory and in-field test results; and ii) procurement of a new power supply capable of providing significantly more power and a modified AOT grid pack assembly reconfigured and generally optimized based on the latest laboratory and in-field test results.
Previous report
When the repaired power supply was installed in late August 2019, the system operated as expected, and limited testing was performed at that time. Results of this limited testing were consistent with laboratory tests performed to date. But, as expected, the repaired power supply was not capable of providing sufficient power to fully treat the crude oil under commercial operating conditions. Based on results of this limited testing, Company engineers completed designs and began implementation of modifications to the AOT internal grid pack assembly.
Previous report
The new high capacity power supply and modified grid pack were installed in December 2019. However, prior to flooding the system with crude oil, early-phase startup testing indicated an electrical short circuit. Subsequent inspection revealed damage to the internal grid pack which likely occurred during installation. The grid pack was shipped offsite for repairs with reinstallation scheduled for January 2020.
Previous report
The AOT demonstration project continued to experience setbacks during the first quarter of 2020. After repairing and re-installing the modified grid pack, the system shut down again during commissioning presenting with error conditions similar to the December 2019 failure. At that time, based on external inspections and on-site testing, our engineers suspected the grid pack had again been damaged during re-installation and that such suspected damage was the most likely cause of the electrical short circuit. It was determined at that time the best course of action would be to remove the modified grid pack and re-install the original grid pack which had previously been installed multiple times without sustaining damage, and perform a detailed inspection of the modified grid pack in an effort to determine the cause of the electrical short circuit.
Previous report
Executing this plan, our team removed the modified grid pack and re-installed the original grid pack assembly in the AOT in January 2020. After removal, our engineers performed a detailed inspection of the modified grid pack. Inconsistent with expectations, no damage to the modified grid pack was found during this inspection, leaving the cause of the electrical short circuit undiagnosed.
Previous report
In January and February 2020, our engineers tested and attempted to operate the AOT under a variety of conditions. In these tests, the system could be run at high voltage, but not high enough for treatment with the installed grid pack, under static “shut-in” conditions; however, the system continued to shut down due to an electrical short circuit when operated under pressure. In simple terms, this means the system could be flooded with crude oil and powered up in excess of 10,000 volts when the system was shut-in by closing the intake and outtake valves which isolates the system from the pipeline’s operating pressure. However, once the valves were opened and the system was subjected to the pipeline’s operating pressure, the system developed an electrical short circuit and shut down.
Previous report
As the presence of high pressure appears to trigger the short circuit, it was the belief of our engineers that it is unlikely the fault is in the grid pack assembly as this component is fully submerged in crude oil and is generally subjected to equal pressure on all components. The electrical short is more likely developing in the electrical connection assembly built into the blind flange at the top of the pressure vessel, which is subjected to high pressure under normal operating conditions. Unfortunately, this electrical connection assembly could not be inspected without destroying the assembly itself. Instead, our engineers developed a plan to replace the installed blind flange and electrical connection assembly with components from inventory which would be rebuilt prior to installation.
Previous report
As part of an ongoing reliability-engineering effort, our engineers at that time worked on incremental modifications to improve electrical isolation within the blind flange and electrical connection assembly. These previously developed plans allowed us to move quickly with vendors and present an expedited plan to the pipeline operator. In March 2020, our engineers designed modifications to the blind flange, electrical connections and related housing intended to minimize the effects of high pressure and likelihood of internal electrical short circuits. Concurrently, a blind flange with high voltage assembly was shipped from inventory to a shop with specialized equipment used to strip the flange of all electrical insulation materials. Once the stripping process was complete, castings were made to complete the internal assembly. Our engineers believed at the time that this modification could solve the electrical short issue we have experienced in prior tests.
Previous report
While the blind flange assembly was being remanufactured, we took the opportunity to implement a number of relatively minor modifications to other system configurations which had been planned for future units based on results of our engineering team’s reliability engineering work over the past two years. These modifications were designed to improve the reliability of internal electrical connections, increase the structural support of the internal grid pack, and maintain higher quality control over internal component positioning and alignment during vertical installation.
Previous report
Notwithstanding our efforts, the AOT system at that time continued to be non-operational under normal operating conditions. As reported in previous updates on our website at https://www.qsenergy.com/index.php/qs-updates/ and in our Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 4, 2020, the AOT system experienced shutdowns during the commissioning process. In December 2019, after installing a modified grid pack and new high-capacity power supply, the system shut down presenting with an electrical short which was determined to be due to damage to the system’s internal grid pack likely incurred during installation. After repairing and re-installing the modified grid pack in January 2020, the system shut down again during commissioning presenting with error conditions similar to the December 2019 failure. At that time, based on external inspections and on-site testing, our engineers suspected the grid pack had again been damaged during re-installation and that such suspected damage was the most likely cause of the electrical short circuit. As reported in our January 24, 2020 website update page, it was determined at that time the best course of action would be to remove the modified grid pack and re-install the original grid pack which had previously been installed multiple times without sustaining damage, and perform a detailed inspection of the modified grid pack in an effort to determine the cause of the electrical short circuit.
Previous report
Executing on this plan, our team removed the modified grid pack and re-installed the original grid pack assembly in the AOT. After removal, our engineers performed a detailed inspection of the modified grid pack. Inconsistent with our expectations, no damage to the modified grid pack was found during this inspection, leaving the cause of the most recent electrical short circuit undiagnosed.
Previous report
We have tested and attempted to operate the AOT under a variety of conditions. We have been able to bring the system up to high voltage under static “shut-in” conditions; however, as reported above, the system continued to shut down due to an electrical short circuit when operated under pressure. In simple terms, as also reported above, this means we can flood the system with crude oil, shut-in the system by closing the intake and outtake valves isolating the system from the pipeline’s operating pressure, and power up the system in excess of 10,000 volts. Once the valves are opened and the system is subjected to the pipeline’s operating pressure, the system develops an electrical short circuit and shuts down. Because of our inability to fully diagnose the cause of our current electrical problems, we can provide no assurances that we will not face other operational issues after completing a full diagnosis and evaluation of our technology.
Previous report
As previously reported, in December 2018, we entered into an agreement with a major U.S.-based pipeline operator under which the Company installed its AOT equipment on a crude oil pipeline located in the Southern United States for testing and demonstration purposes. Based on laboratory tests and operations of prototype equipment at other locations, we had a reasonable expectation that the equipment would operate successfully and that test results would demonstrate quantifiable benefits to pipeline operators. This has not occurred.
Previous report
As reported in the Company’s Form 10-K and Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on March 31, 2020 and June 29, 2020, respectively, and in website updates published on the Company’s website at https://www.qsenergy.com/index.php/qs-updates/, the Company experienced a number of difficulties and delays at the demonstration site. Despite identifying and implementing numerous design modifications over several months, the Company was unable to successfully operate its AOT equipment.
Previous report
In late June 2020, equipment modifications intended to mitigate electrical short circuit issues identified in earlier tests were completed. During startup testing, the system experienced a new failure mode in which the system could be operated at a baseline high voltage (well below operational voltage required to treat heavy crude), but after a period of time, the system would drop to very low voltage indicating a reduction in electrical resistance in the AOT. This voltage drop was both dynamic, developing over time as electrical current was applied; and transient, in that the power supply could be shut-down and re-started with this voltage drop characteristic repeating. After reviewing these results and running subsequent in-field tests at the direction of the power supply manufacturer, they recommended a configuration modification to the control module of the system’s high-voltage power supply which, in their experience, could resolve the system’s ability to maintain constant voltage under our unique operating conditions in which the AOT essentially acts as a very large capacitor. During the first week of July 2020, we modified the power supply control module at the direction of the power supply manufacturer. Though this modification did appear to solve the voltage drop issue, the AOT could not achieve operational voltage as the system control module indicated arc-faults when high voltage was applied above the baseline voltage levels. After many attempts to bring the system up to operating voltage, arc-faults continued until the AOT demonstrated symptoms of what appeared to be a dead short (electrical short-to-ground; voltage dropped to zero) and the system could no longer be re-started.
Previous report
After discussions with our demonstration pipeline partner, it was mutually agreed that the best course of action was to move the equipment from the demonstration site to another location where our engineers could disassemble and inspect the equipment. Our AOT equipment was moved to storage, inspection, and testing site in the state of Mississippi. Our former demonstration partner indicated their continued interest in our AOT technology and may consider installation and operation of a new AOT demonstration project if our operational issues can be resolved.
Previous report
We shut down all testing of our AOT product in July 2020, due to a lack of operating capital; we received limited capital in 2021, allowing us to commence some additional testing of our AOT product.
Previous report
In 2021, following our receipt of limited capital, our engineer commenced re-testing and completed a troubleshooting sequence. Lab test fixtures were designed and built, and testing results supported the redesign of the AOT internals. The results of the electrical testing of the insulating material showed that the material of constructions was functioning as designed. However, during the testing it was discovered that the material swells when exposed to crude oil. The current design does not accommodate a change in size of the parts.
Previous report
We validated a new design concept for the grid pack will reduce arcing and allowed us to apply full voltage during a recent test. A 3rd party engineering firm with proper experience and three-dimensional modeling software was engaged. A design review was completed, final drawings were sent to our vendors, and prototype parts, for fit and electrical testing, were ordered.
Previous report
In August 2022 we completed the testing of the new components. The assembly did not suffer the arcing problems we saw when testing an assembly made from parts of the full size AOT. It appeared that we accomplished the goal of eliminating the sources of arcing that prevented us from achieving treatment voltages with this new design.
Previous report
The lessons learned during the stack assembly test have been applied and the results incorporated into the designs for the spacer rings and the screens. This change to the isolator ring design resulted in some iterative designs to optimize the casting tooling or molds. The time spent on this redesign created a delay in our goal for testing in September 2022.
Previous report
Since reporting our findings on October 7, 2021, we have been able to positively confirm and correct approximately 80% of what we have determined thus far to be the necessary improvements for a reliable and field worthy AOT. Based on the results of the recent component testing, we were able to rework the original grid pack, achieve high voltage in air and oil to verify that the individual components worked when assembled.
Previous report
Once all the parts were delivered for a full AOT, we assembled the stack and installed the stack into the vessel. The vessel was filled with oil and tested. We were able to apply full voltage of 40.1kV to the AOT. We believed at the time that the AOT would be ready to test with customer oil and be deployed back into the field. No testing or deployment has yet to occur.
Previous report
We reopened discussions with our original development partner as well as reaching out to others. While we have tested with a representative oil sample, we have not yet reached an agreement with a development partner allowing us to test a development partner's pipeline oil as a prelude to another field test. Our efforts continue to reach agreement with a suitable development partner as our next step to develop and commercialize our AOT technology.
Previous report
Our team has diligently pursued the formalization of a new initiative, aligning it with the strategic priorities of potential development partners. As we endeavor to seamlessly incorporate state-of-the-art technologies into a novel operational framework, we acknowledge that comprehensive planning and meticulous execution invariably require more time than initially anticipated.
Previous report
A noteworthy milestone has been achieved, demonstrating significant viscosity reduction for the specified oil target. Our collaboration with Temple University continues as we define the operational parameters of the AOT system, essential for effective field deployment. Concurrently, we are actively exploring commercial opportunities for our AOT product.
Previous report
The Company had no revenues in the three month-periods ended September 30, 2025 and 2024.
Previous report
Research and development expenses were $1,773,000 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2025, compared to $48,000 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024, an increase of $1,196,000. This increase is attributable to increases in prototype product development costs of $1,494,000.
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Reworded paragraphs (18)
Previous wording
This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Such statements, which include statements concerning future revenue sources and concentration, selling, general and administrative expenses, research and development expenses, capital resources, additional financings and additional losses, are subject to risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those discussed elsewhere in this Form 10-Q, and in the “Risk Factors” that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the information set forth in this Form 10-Q is as of September 30, 2024, and we undertake no duty to update this information.
Current wording
This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Such statements, which include statements concerning future revenue sources and concentration, selling, general and administrative expenses, research and development expenses, capital resources, additional financings and additional losses, are subject to risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those discussed elsewhere in this Form 10-Q, and in the “Risk Factors” that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the information set forth in this Form 10-Q is as of March 31, 2026, and, except as required under applicable rules and regulations, we undertake no duty to update this information.
Previous wording
QS Energy, Inc. (“QS Energy” or “Company” or “we” or “us” or “our”) develops and seeks to commercialize energy efficiency technologies that assist in meeting increasing global energy demands, improving the economics of oil transport, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Company's intellectual properties include a portfolio of domestic and international patents, a substantial portion of which have been developed in conjunction with and exclusively licensed by us from Temple University of Philadelphia, PA (“Temple”). QS Energy's primary technology (and for now only technology) is called Applied Oil Technology (AOT), a commercial-grade crude oil pipeline transportation flow-assurance product. Engineered specifically to reduce pipeline pressure loss, increase pipeline flow rate and capacity, and reduce shippers’ reliance on diluents and drag reducing agents to meet pipeline maximum viscosity requirements, AOT is a 100% solid-state system that in lab and other tests has shown to reduce crude oil viscosity by applying a high intensity electrical field to crude oil while in transit. AOT technology has shown to deliver reductions in crude oil viscosity and pipeline pressure loss as demonstrated in independent third-party tests performed by the U.S. Department of Energy, the PetroChina Pipeline R&D Center, and ATS RheoSystems, a division of CANNON™, at full-scale test facilities in the U.S. and China, and under commercial operating conditions on one of North America’s largest high-volume crude oil pipelines. Prior testing on a commercial crude oil condensate pipeline demonstrated high correlation between laboratory analysis and full-scale AOT operations under commercial operating conditions with onsite measurements and data collected by the pipeline operator on its supervisory control and data acquisition (“SCADA”) system. The AOT product is still in development and testing and has transitioned from laboratory testing to initial demonstration and continued testing in advance of our goal of seeking commercial acceptance and adoption by the upstream and midstream pipeline marketplace. Such commercial acceptance and adoption have not been achieved. We continue to devote the bulk of our efforts to the promotion, design, testing and the commercial manufacturing and test operations of our crude oil AOT pipeline product in the upstream and midstream energy sector. Our efforts in the foregoing regard have been substantially hampered by our lack of capital. We should be able to continue our efforts to commercialize our AOT product during 2025 only if we are able to raise sufficient capital to do so. We can provide no assurances that we will be able to raise the capital we need to continue our efforts in 2025, or that any such capital will be available to us on acceptable terms and conditions.
Current wording
QS Energy, Inc. (“QS Energy” or “Company” or “we” or “us” or “our”) develops and seeks to commercialize energy efficiency technologies that assist in meeting increasing global energy demands, improving the economics of oil transport, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Company's intellectual properties include a portfolio of domestic and international patents, a substantial portion of which have been developed in conjunction with and exclusively licensed by us from Temple University of Philadelphia, PA (“Temple”). QS Energy's primary technology (and for now only technology) is called Applied Oil Technology (AOT), a commercial-grade crude oil pipeline transportation flow-assurance product. Engineered specifically to reduce pipeline pressure loss, increase pipeline flow rate and capacity, and reduce shippers’ reliance on diluents and drag reducing agents to meet pipeline maximum viscosity requirements, AOT is a 100% solid-state system that in lab and other tests has shown to reduce crude oil viscosity by applying a high intensity electrical field to crude oil while in transit. AOT technology has shown to deliver reductions in crude oil viscosity and pipeline pressure loss as demonstrated in independent third-party tests performed by the U.S. Department of Energy, the PetroChina Pipeline R&D Center, and ATS RheoSystems, a division of CANNON™, at full-scale test facilities in the U.S. and China, and under commercial operating conditions on one of North America’s largest high-volume crude oil pipelines. Prior testing on a commercial crude oil condensate pipeline demonstrated high correlation between laboratory analysis and full-scale AOT operations under commercial operating conditions with onsite measurements and data collected by the pipeline operator on its supervisory control and data acquisition (“SCADA”) system. The AOT product is still in development and testing and has transitioned from laboratory testing to initial demonstration and continued testing in advance of our goal of seeking commercial acceptance and adoption by the upstream and midstream pipeline marketplace. Such commercial acceptance and adoption have not been achieved. We continue to devote the bulk of our efforts to the promotion, design, testing and the commercial manufacturing and test operations of our crude oil AOT pipeline product in the upstream and midstream energy sector. Our efforts in the foregoing regard have been substantially hampered by our lack of capital. We believe we should be able to continue our efforts to commercialize our AOT product during 2026 only if we are able to raise sufficient capital to do so. We can provide no assurances that we will be able to raise the capital we need to continue our efforts in 2026, or that any such capital will be available to us on acceptable terms and conditions. Nor can we provide assurances our technology will be accepted and deployed by the pipeline industry. See ”Risk Factors,” below in Item 1A.
Previous wording
A history of important events associated with our efforts to develop and commercialize our AOT technology is as follows:
Current wording
A history of important events associated with our goals and efforts to develop, test, and achieve commercialization of our AOT technology, as well as our efforts to achieve acceptance of our AOT technology by the oil and gas pipeline industry, has been reported in our prior SEC filings, including in our Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on March 31, 2026. As previously reported, our goals in the foregoing regard have not yet been achieved, and despite our ongoing efforts we can provide no assurances that we will be able to achieve our goals. See “Item 1A-Risk Factors,” below, and our Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 31, 2026, and our prior SEC filings.
Previous wording
As reported in our form 8-K, filed with the SEC on June 25, 2025, we entered into a Distributor Agreement with VIPS, providing for VIPS to serve as our exclusive distributor to promote, sell, and lease our AOT product in the territories of Malaysia, Ghana, and India, among other territories. To date, we have not received any purchase orders under the Distributor Agreement, nor has our AOT product been placed with, nor currently being used by, any of VIPS’ customers or anyone else.
Current wording
As reported in our form 8-K, filed with the SEC on June 25, 2025, we entered into a Distributor Agreement with VIPS, providing for VIPS to serve as our exclusive distributor to promote, sell, and lease our AOT product in the territories of Malaysia, Ghana, and India, among other territories. To date, we have not received any purchase orders under the Distributor Agreement, nor has our AOT product been placed with, nor currently being used by, any of VIPS’ customers or anyone else. As previously reported, we have also amended the Distributor Agreement, as follows:
Previous wording
A copy of the Amended Distributor Agreement, together with amendments and samples attached thereto are attached to this Form 10-Q filing as Exhibit 10.1. The above summary of the Amended Distributor Agreement provides selected information only and is qualified in its entirety by the Amended Distributor Agreement. The Amended Distributor Agreement and attachments thereto should be carefully read in their entirety.
Current wording
A copy of the Amended Distributor Agreement, together with amendments and samples attached thereto are included in our Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 31, 2026. The above summary of the Amended Distributor Agreement provides selected information only and is qualified in its entirety by the Amended Distributor Agreement. The Amended Distributor Agreement and attachments thereto should be carefully read in their entirety.
Previous wording
QS Energy, in coordination with VIPS, VIPS’ customer counterparties, and associated financial institutions, is engaged in negotiations seeking execution of an initial commercial deployment plan for the 3.0 generation AOT Units. The parties maintain active alignment on the master schedule, which incorporates a five-point Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC) trigger framework tied to Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), completion of manufacturing by specified dates, scheduled delivery to destination countries, and defined installation windows coordinated with crude oil operators. Activities to date have resulted in measurable progress across all workstreams associated with the 3.0 deployment plan, but no revenue has been realized nor AOT purchases have been made under such deployment plan.
Current wording
Additionally, QS Energy, in coordination with VIPS, VIPS’ customer counterparties, and associated financial institutions, is engaged in negotiations seeking execution of an initial commercial deployment plan for the 3.0 generation AOT Units. The parties maintain active alignment on the master schedule, which incorporates a five-point Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC) trigger framework tied to Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), completion of manufacturing by specified dates, scheduled delivery to destination countries, and defined installation windows coordinated with crude oil operators. Activities to date have resulted in some progress across all workstreams associated with the 3.0 deployment plan, but no revenue has been realized nor AOT purchases have been made under such deployment plan.
Previous wording
There are significant risks associated with our business, our Company and our stock. See “Risk Factors,” below.
Current wording
There are significant risks associated with our business, our technology, our Company, and our stock. See “Risk Factors,” below.
Previous wording
Three months ended September 30, 2025 and 2024
Current wording
Results of Operations for Three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025
Previous wording
Operating expenses were $646,000 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2025, compared to $231,000 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024, an increase of $415,000. This is due to increases in non-cash expenses of $135,000 and in cash expenses of $280,000. Specifically, the increase in non-cash expenses is attributable to increases in stock compensation expenses attributable to the fair value of vested options issued for compensation of $83,000 and reinstatement of the Company’s Director Compensation Policy of $56,000, offset by a decrease in the fair value of warrants issued as compensation for services of $4,000. The increase in cash expenses is attributable to increases in consulting fees of $113,000, salaries of $83,000, legal and accounting of $35,000, insurance of $22,000, travel expenses of $10,000, corporate expenses of $7,000, meals and entertainment of 5,000, auto expense of $3,000, bank fees of $3,000, office expenses of $2,000, and other expenses of $2,000, offset by decreases in public and investor relations of $3,000, and rent and utilities of $2,000.
Current wording
Operating expenses were $735,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2026, compared to $9,512,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, a decrease of $8,777,000. This is due to a decrease in non-cash expenses of $8,108,000, and a decrease in cash expenses of $669,000. Specifically, the decrease in non-cash expenses are attributable to a decrease in stock compensation expense attributable to vested options and warrants issued as compensation of $4,155,000, options issued for the Company’s Director Compensation Policy of $2,450,000, and common stock issued for services of $1,503,000. The decrease in cash expense is attributable to decreases in salaries and benefits of $497,000, consulting expenses of $116,000, corporate expenses of $75,000, legal and accounting of $28,000, rent expense of $4,000, office expenses of $3,000, public and investor relations of $1,000, auto expenses of $1,000, travel expenses of $1,000 and other expenses of $1,000, offset by increases in insurance of $55,000, market expenses of $2,000, and other expenses of $1,000.
Previous wording
Other expenses were $74,000 expense for the three-month period ended September 30, 2025, compared to $86,000 expense for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024, a net decrease in other expenses of $12,000. This decrease is attributable to a decrease in non-cash other expenses of $12,000. The decrease in non-cash other expense is due to a decrease in expense attributable to interest, beneficial conversion factors and warrants associated with convertible notes issued in the amount of $12,000.
Current wording
Other income and expense were $44,000 expense for the three-month period ended March 31, 2026, compared to $115,000 expense for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, a net decrease in other expenses of $71,000. This decrease is attributable to a decrease in non-cash other expenses of $71,000. The increase in non-cash other expense is due to decrease in expense attributable to interest, beneficial conversion factors and warrants associated with convertible notes issued in the amount of $71,000.
Previous wording
The Company had a net loss of $1,964,000, or $0.00 per share, for the three-month period ended September 30, 2025, compared to a net loss of $320,000, or $0.00 per share, for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024.
Current wording
The Company had a net loss of $781,000, or $0.00 per share, for the three-month period ended March 31, 2026, compared to a net loss of $9674,000, or $0.02 per share, for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
As reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the Company has not yet generated significant revenues and has incurred recurring net losses. We have incurred negative cash flow from operations since our inception in 1998 and a stockholders’ deficit of $5,439,000 as of September 30, 2025. Our negative operating cash flow for the periods ended September 30, 2025 was funded primarily through issuance of convertible notes and execution of options and warrants to purchase common stock.
Current wording
As reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the Company has not yet generated significant revenues and has incurred recurring net losses. We have incurred negative cash flow from operations since our inception in 1998 and a stockholders’ deficit of $5,789,000 as of March 31, 2026. Our negative operating cash flow for the periods ended March 31, 2026 was funded primarily through issuance of convertible notes and execution of options and warrants to purchase common stock.
Previous wording
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. As reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the Company had a net loss of $13,777,000 and a negative cash flow from operations of $3,378,000 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2025. In addition, as of September 30, 2025, 42 notes payable with an aggregate balance of $1,070,000 and certain obligations to a former officer are past due. These factors raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. In addition, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, in its report on the Company’s December 31, 2024 financial statements, has raised substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
Current wording
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. As reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the Company had a net loss of $781,000 and a negative cash flow from operations of $468,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2026. In addition, as of March 31, 2026, 48 notes payable with an aggregate balance of $1,209,000, license agreement payables of $3,167,000 and certain obligations to a former officer are past due. These factors raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. In addition, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, in its report on the Company’s December 31, 2025 financial statements, has raised substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
Previous wording
At September 30, 2025, we had cash on hand in the amount of $49,000. We will need additional funds to operate our business, including without limitation the expenses we will incur in connection with the license agreements, and the amendments thereto, with Temple University; costs associated with product development and commercialization of the AOT and related technologies; costs to manufacture and ship our products; costs to design and implement an effective system of internal controls and disclosure controls and procedures; costs of maintaining our status as a public company by filing periodic reports with the SEC and costs required to protect our intellectual property. In addition, as discussed above, we have substantial contractual commitments, including without limitation salaries to our executive officers pursuant to employment agreements, certain severance payments to a former officer and consulting fees, during the remainder of 2025 and beyond.
Current wording
During the period ended March 31, 2026, we received cash from financing activities of $500,000 from the exercise of warrants, and used cash in operating activities of $468,000. At March 31, 2026, we had cash on hand in the amount of $33,000. We will need additional funds to operate our business, including without limitation the expenses we will incur in connection with the license agreements with Temple University; costs associated with product development and commercialization of the AOT and related technologies; costs to manufacture and ship our products; costs to design and implement an effective system of internal controls and disclosure controls and procedures; costs of maintaining our status as a public company by filing periodic reports with the SEC and costs required to protect our intellectual property. In addition, as discussed above, we have substantial contractual commitments, including without limitation, certain severance payments to a former officer and consulting fees, during the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
Previous wording
For details of the licensing agreements, and amendments thereto, with Temple University, see Financial Statements included herewith, Note 6 (Research and Development-Temple University Licensing Agreements).
Current wording
For details of the licensing agreements with Temple University, see Financial Information, Part I, Note 5 (Research and Development) above.
Previous wording
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Certain significant estimates were made in connection with preparing our consolidated financial statements as described in Note 2 to Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Current wording
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. Certain significant estimates were made in connection with preparing our consolidated financial statements as described in Note 2 to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Previous wording
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. As reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, during the nine-months ended September 30, 2025, the Company incurred a net loss of $13,777,000, used cash in operations of $3,378,000 and had a stockholders’ deficit of $5,439,000 as of that date. In addition, as of September 30, 2025, 42 notes payable with an aggregate balance of $1,070,000 and certain obligations to a former officer are past due. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. In addition, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, in its ability of the Company to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company’s ability to raise additional funds and implement its business plan. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if the Company is unable to continue as a going concern.
Current wording
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. As reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, during the three-months ended March 31, 2026, the Company incurred a net loss of $781,000, used cash in operations of $468,000 and had a stockholders’ deficit of $5,789,000 as of March 31, 2026. In addition, as of March 31, 2026, 48 notes payable with an aggregate balance of $1,209,000, license agreement payables of $3,167,000 and certain obligations to a former officer are past due. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. In addition, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, in its report on the Company’s December 31, 2025 financial statements, has raised substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The ability of the Company to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company’s ability to raise additional funds and implement its business plan. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if the Company is unable to continue as a going concern.
Previous wording
See Footnote 2 in the accompanying financial statements for a discussion of recent accounting policies.
Current wording
See Note 2 in the accompanying financial statements for a discussion of recent accounting policies.
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The Company’s common stock is quoted under the symbol “QSEP” on the Over-the-Counter bulletin board-pink sheets. More information including the Company’s updates, fact sheet, logos and media articles are available at our corporate website, www.qsenergy.com.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (3)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Other expenses were $332,000 expense for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2025, compared to $246,000 expense for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2025, a net increase in other expenses of $86,000. This increase is attributable to an increase in non-cash other expenses of $86,000. The increase in non-cash other expense is due to increases in expense attributable to interest, beneficial conversion factors and warrants associated with convertible notes issued in the amount of $83,000.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
At September 30, 2025, the Company had cash on hand in the amount of $49,000. Management estimates that the current funds on hand will be sufficient to continue operations through December 2025. Management is currently seeking additional funds, primarily through the issuance of debt and equity securities for cash to operate our business, including without limitation the expenses it will incur in connection with the license agreements with Temple; costs associated with product development and commercialization of the AOT technologies; costs to manufacture and ship the products; costs to design and implement an effective system of internal controls and disclosure controls and procedures; costs of maintaining our status as a public company by filing periodic reports with the SEC and costs required to protect our intellectual property. In addition, the Company has substantial contractual commitments, including without limitation salaries to our executive officers pursuant to employment agreements, certain payments to a former officer and consulting fees, during the remainder of 2025 and beyond.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
No assurance can be given that any future financing will be available or, if available, that it will be on terms that are satisfactory to the Company. Even if the Company is able to obtain additional financing, it may contain undue restrictions on our operations, in the case of debt financing or cause substantial dilution for our stockholders in case of equity financing.