International Scientific Journals
of Scientific Technical Union of Mechanical Engineering "Industry 4.0"

This study proposes a mathematical model for design and optimization of a hydrogen supply chain, covering all stages of the life cycle – feedstocks, production, storage, distribution, end-use in the transport sector. The developed methodology integrates different hydrogen production technologies and takes into account environmental, economic and social impacts in order to identify the most efficient and sustainable configuration. The focus in this work falls on hydrogen production by steam reforming of methane and hydrogen production by electrolysis of water in hydrogen refueling stations. The mathematical model is formulated in terms of MILP programming and can be solved using the GAMS software product. The aim is to find an optimal balance between economic efficiency, environmental sustainability and social impact by using weighted coefficients (weights). The proposed concept provides a decision-making tool for planning hydrogen infrastructure in line with European decarbonization and sustainable transport goals.