In this study we identified and analyzed data and elements useful to provide the basis for a national hydrogen strategy. We examined known technological options, and highlighted the sectors where the penetration of the hydrogen vector is the winning choice for decarbonization – and in some cases the only viable one. The approach adopted follows a reasonably ‘objective’ minimum cost trajectory, based on widely shared assumptions. This approach starts from an in-depth investigation of European and international hydrogen strategies in order to catalog and analyze the proposed measures and collect them in aggregate form by main themes, such as production, storage, transport, end uses, research, policy, safety and social impact. We analyzed the preliminary Guidelines of the hydrogen strategy, considered as a reference basis, and the results emerging from the Consultations of these Guidelines aimed at over 120 authoritative stakeholders. All the measures contained in the PNRR [Italian recovery and resilience plan] concerning hydrogen were considered, especially the measure relating to the creation of ‘hydrogen valleys,’ and all aspects concerning the entire hydrogen value chain were evaluated. Both the most critical issues and those requiring further investigation were addressed in detail. Projects underway or under study were collected and cataloged. The census of ongoing and planned projects made it possible to compare what is emerging with independent decision-making mechanisms with what would need to be achieved in the medium term, also from a long-term perspective. The regulatory-legislative and regulatory-technical framework were analyzed, including technical standards and national security legislation. The issue of hydrogen storage and accumulation was explored in depth, which is of fundamental importance for the definition of the whole strategic line, from production to end uses. All possible options were therefore studied and examined according to a logic of minimum cost and feasibility. Finally, the fundamental issue of research and development was addressed.