Hydrogen (H2), the next-generation green fuel,
can be
obtained by the catalytic splitting of water using solar and electrochemical
methods and a combination of both (photoelectrochemical). Among the
various porous catalytic water reduction systems developed, covalent
organic frameworks (COFs) based systems are emerging in recent times
due to their structural ordering and facile tunability, high thermo-chemical
stability, and permanent porosity. This review provides a detailed
summary and analysis of COF-based photo-, electro-, and photoelectrochemical
hydrogen evolution systems. Uniquely, it includes the journey from
precious noble metal to earth-abundant molecular cocatalysts for the
generation of H2 and their synergetic interaction with
COFs. Moreover, the focus is on outlining the core concept of heterogeneous
catalytic H2 evolution, measurement techniques, photophysical
and physicochemical insights, and the relationship among key components
of the overall process. Finally, the advantages and pitfalls of COFs
as H2 evolution systems and the design principles for optimal
catalytic efficiency are discussed. A dedicated outlook section is
presented at the end to benefit researchers for future developments
in this emerging field.