<p>Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone for achieving sustainable and cleaner energy future. This comprehensive review explores multifaceted dimensions of hydrogen fuel technology, focusing on production methods, storage solutions, transportation logistics, and emerging innovations. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), deep learning, reinforcement learning, and data science are discussed as case studies, highlighting their transformative roles in optimizing hydrogen fuel systems. The review also examines into the economic feasibility of hydrogen as a clean energy alternative, analyzing cost trends, scalability, technology readiness level (TRL), and market dynamics. Moreover, the study provides insights into the technical and operational challenges hindering the widespread adoption of a hydrogen fuel, including infrastructure limitations, safety concerns, and policy frameworks. Potential strategies to address these obstacles are proposed, paving way for a more robust and viable hydrogen ecosystem. A dedicated section discusses parameter estimation in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEM FCs), emphasizing its importance in enhancing efficiency, reliability, and durability of hydrogen-powered systems. Overall, this review integrates technological, economic, and operational perspectives to present a comprehensive understanding of hydrogen’s potential as a sustainable clean energy solution. It identifies key research areas and proposes actionable solutions to fast-track the transition towards a hydrogen-driven economy, thereby contributing to global sustainability goals.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>