Hydrogen Supply Chain Design with Clustering-Based Distribution Center Location and FCEV Routing Incorporating Hydrogen Refueling Stations

Hydrogen supply chains require coordinated planning from upstream production to downstream distribution and end-user delivery; however, significant logistical challenges remain under emerging hydrogen infrastructure constraints. In particular, the transportation sector faces difficulties in achieving efficient distribution while accounting for limited hydrogen refueling availability and vehicle range restrictions. This study evaluates key network design decisions involving distribution center location and fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) routing while incorporating hydrogen refueling stations within the transportation system. An integrated framework is proposed by combining K-means clustering for DC location planning with a hydrogen-powered FCEV routing model. Hydrogen refueling stations are incorporated as routing constraints to ensure feasible distribution operations. Next, a case study in Thailand is conducted to validate the proposed model under realistic logistical conditions. The results illustrate how clustering-based allocation improves network coordination, while the integrated FCEV routing approach ensures feasible and efficient delivery under refueling constraints. Comparative analysis further highlights improvements in system performance and provides practical insights for designing coordinated hydrogen logistics systems across integrated supply chain networks.