A multi-period optimization framework based on a comprehensive techno-economic analysis is used to design spatially-explicit and time-evolutionary hydrogen (H(2)) supply networks. It is of particular interest to investigate the spatio-temporal economic, environmental and energetic performance if H(2) were to be introduced as a fuel in the Dutch transport sector. A key observation is that the transition towards a large-scale H(2) supply infrastructure is economically viable, if designed optimally with a holistic long-term systems perspective. However, the well-to-tank (WtT) CO(2) emission reduction potential is limited (ca. 30%), which can be improved (ca. 85%) with carbon capture and storage (CCS). The spatially-explicit nature of the framework facilitates the design of efficient networks with a high network-wide WtT energy efficiency (ca. 50% or more). Furthermore, H(2) is observed to have the potential to alleviate Dutch energy security concerns. (Disclaimer: Results/comments are the authors' and do not necessarily represent the views of the associated organizations/institutions). Copyright (C) 2011, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.