Photovoltaic driven hydrogen electrolysis,using photovoltaic power to produce hydrogen by electrolysis of water,is a promisinggreen hydrogen production technology,and has significant advantages compared with other types of hydrogen production technology.This technology not only possesses notable advantages such as low energy consumption, pollution-free operation, and a simple structure,but it also converts unstable solar energy into stable hydrogen energy, offering reliable energy storage and peak-shaving capabilities forpower systems. It is of great significance for establishing a sustainable energy system. In this paper,the research progress of photovoltaicdriven water electrolysis technology is summarized, and optimization strategies for water electrolysis catalysts as well as the integrationmethods of photovoltaic-electrolysis systems are discussed. Firstly,given the background of energy crisis, the importance of photovoltaicdriven hydrogen electrolysis in constructing the sustainable energy system is highlighted. Subsequently, the basic concepts ofphotovoltaic-electrolysis are introduced, by analyzing the principles and characteristics of different water electrolysis technologies, the keyfactors for enhancing electrolysis efficiency are revealed. Then, the design and optimization strategies of water electrolysis catalysts areexplored, especially innovative approaches in electronic structure modulation, interface engineering, and surface engineering, and theexisting strategies for improving the efficiency of hydrogen production by photovoltaic-electrolysis are summarized. Furthermore, theimpact of coupling configurations on the efficiency of photovoltaic electrolysis systems is evaluated, and the technical difficultiesassociated with system integration and scaling-up are discussed. Finally,the challenges and future research directions of photovoltaic- electrolysis technology for hydrogen production are prospected. A detailed overview of the photovoltaic driven hydrogen electrolysistechnology was provided,giving reference for the large-scale application and promotion of photovoltaic-electrolysis.