National hydrogen strategies and their role on the design of clean hydrogen supply chains

Abstract The transition to a sustainable energy system requires the development of efficient hydrogen supply chains (HSCs) to support the growing demand for clean hydrogen. National hydrogen strategies play a critical role in shaping the design and implementation of these supply chains by defining technological pathways, policy frameworks, and market structures. This study analyzes the hydrogen strategies of seven leading countries—Australia, Germany, Spain, the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and France—to identify key elements influencing HSC design. A systematic literature review complements this analysis by assessing how these elements are addressed in business and management research. The findings reveal that countries adopt different strategic positions based on their natural resources, industrial capabilities, and geopolitical objectives. Additionally, the study highlights global drivers and barriers to hydrogen adoption, including policy support, cost competitiveness, and infrastructure challenges. The results contribute to the understanding of how national strategies influence HSC development and propose a conceptual framework linking strategic positioning to supply chain design. This research provides a foundation for future studies on hydrogen supply chain management and policymaking, outlining a research agenda to address existing gaps and enhance the design of hydrogen supply chains in the context of the global energy transition.