Modeling Hydrogen Integration in Port Logistics

As European ports accelerate the transition toward climate-neutral operations, hydrogen (H₂) is emerging as a strategic energy vector. However, integrating H₂ into complex port logistics introduces new challenges in infrastructure planning, operational efficiency, and safety management. Simulation and modeling tools are increasingly vital for evaluating these challenges and guiding data-informed decision-making. This paper explores simulation-based approaches to support hydrogen deployment in ports, focusing on four domains: fueling logistics, fleet conversion, energy balancing, and intermodal H₂ transport. Drawing on early pilot experiences in ports such as Valencia, Hamburg, Rotterdam, and Trieste, we illustrate how discrete event simulation (DES), agent-based modeling (ABM), and energy systems models can be applied to optimize hydrogen refueling cycles, manage supply-demand matching, and assess infrastructure needs. Case studies demonstrate how simulation supports risk reduction, cost-efficiency, and policy alignment. In this context, this paper presents H-PORT, a research project funded under the Italian PNRR framework (MUR, Mission M4C2 – Investment 1.3, RAISE Project ECS00000035, CUP D33C22000970006), within Spoke 4 – Smart and Sustainable Ports. H-PORT aims to develop digital twin environments and techno-economic models for hydrogen-based port applications. Through integrated simulations of HRS (hydrogen refueling stations), port fleet operations, and energy management scenarios, H-PORT supports the design and validation of decarbonization strategies in port ecosystems. As ports evolve into multi-energy hubs, simulation will play a critical role in enabling a safe and scalable hydrogen transition.