Infrastructure issues pose more challenges and uncertainties for hydrogen than other alternative "fuels" such as biofuels and electricity. A key challenge of developing a future commercial hydrogen economy is how the infrastructure will be best designed and operated as time progresses, given that numerous technological options exist and are still in development for hydrogen production, storage, distribution and dispensing. This paper presents a generic optimization-based model for the strategic dynamic investment planning and design of future hydrogen supply chains. The features and capabilities of the model are illustrated through a detailed case study of China. It is shown how the proposed methodology can provide policy-makers with new tools for hydrogen development strategies. (C) 2008 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.