Optimization of hydrogen infrastructure layout based on systems coupling theory: A multi-model integrated study for Shandong province

Shandong Province is an important economic center in China, with abundant hydrogen sources and strong energy infrastructure, providing a foundation for the development of the hydrogen energy industry. However, challenges remain in optimizing the region's hydrogen infrastructure. This study introduces a multi-model integrated optimization approach grounded in systems coupling theory to enhance infrastructure efficiency and foster regional collaboration. A hydrogen competitiveness evaluation system was developed, integrating resource and infrastructure data to calculate the competitiveness index for each city, revealing significant differences between cities in Shandong Province (with scores ranging from 0.06 to 0.82). Analysis of Shandong's freight network identified key logistics nodes and critical routes, with the Qingyin Expressway (G20) selected as a case study for validation. The proposed optimization framework combines competitiveness evaluation, transportation network analysis, and supply chain coordination, utilizing a genetic algorithm to optimize facility layouts under multiple objectives and constraints. The optimization results show that strategically placing hydrogen refueling stations at 70–130 km intervals along the G20 Expressway achieves optimal spatial coverage while ensuring hydrogen resource accessibility within a 30 km radius. The empirical study in Shandong confirms the feasibility and effectiveness of this approach, providing theoretical and practical insights for planning hydrogen infrastructure in other regions.