Hydrogen storage systems at ports for enhanced safety and sustainability: a review

Abstract With the increasing demand for clean energy and the global push toward carbon neutrality, hydrogen has emerged as a promising alternative fuel. Ports are critical nodes in the hydrogen supply chain that are increasingly being utilized as long-term hydrogen storage hubs. However, integrating hydrogen storage systems into port infrastructure presents unique technical, environmental, and safety challenges. This review systematically examines current technologies used for hydrogen storage in port environments—including compressed gas, cryogenic liquid, cryo-compressed gas, ammonia, liquid organic hydrogen carriers, solid-state hydrides, and underground storage. Each technology is evaluated based on performance, infrastructure requirements, accident risks, environmental impact, and cost. The study also assesses port-specific infrastructure vulnerabilities under operational stress and climate change conditions and explores strategies for accident prevention, emergency response, and postincident recovery. A comprehensive framework is proposed to enhance the resilience and safety of hydrogen storage systems at ports. This study offers valuable insights for stakeholders and researchers by addressing technical gaps, regulatory challenges, and future directions for sustainable and safe hydrogen storage in port facilities.