Model Development and Implementation of Techno-Economic Assessment of Hydrogen Logistics Value Chain: A Case Study of Selected Regions in the Czech Republic

Abstract

With the rising demand for renewable hydrogen as an alternative sustainable fuel, efficient transport strategies have become essential, particularly for regional and small-scale applications. While most previous studies focus on the long-distance transport of hydrogen, little attention has been given to the application in regions that are remote from major transmission infrastructure. This study evaluates the techno-economic performance of hydrogen road transport using multiple-element hydrogen gas containers and compares it with multimodal transport using rail. The comparison is performed for the southeastern region of the Czech Republic. The comprehensive techno-economic assessment incorporates detailed technical evaluations, precise fuel and energy consumption calculations, and realworld infrastructure planning to enhance accuracy. Results showed that multimodal transport of hydrogen can significantly reduce the cost for distances exceeding 90 km. The cost is calculated based on annual vehicle utilization, assuming the remaining utilization will be allocated to other tasks throughout the year. However, the cost-effectiveness of rail transportation is influenced by track capacity limits and possible delays. Additionally, this study highlights the crucial role of regional logistics hubs in optimizing transport modes, further reducing costs and improving efficiency.With the rising demand for renewable hydrogen as an alternative sustainable fuel, efficient transport strategies have become essential, particularly for regional and small-scale applications. While most previous studies focus on the long-distance transport of hydrogen, little attention has been given to the application in regions that are remote from major transmission infrastructure. This study evaluates the techno-economic performance of hydrogen road transport using multiple-element hydrogen gas containers and compares it with multimodal transport using rail. The comparison is performed for the southeastern region of the Czech Republic. The comprehensive techno-economic assessment incorporates detailed technical evaluations, precise fuel and energy consumption calculations, and realworld infrastructure planning to enhance accuracy. Results showed that multimodal transport of hydrogen can significantly reduce the cost for distances exceeding 90 km. The cost is calculated based on annual vehicle utilization, assuming the remaining utilization will be allocated to other tasks throughout the year. However, the cost-effectiveness of rail transportation is influenced by track capacity limits and possible delays. Additionally, this study highlights the crucial role of regional logistics hubs in optimizing transport modes, further reducing costs and improving efficiency.