The sliding mode controller of photovoltaic grid-connected inverter are overall analyzed and summarized. The research status of sliding mode controller of photovoltaic grid-connected inverter are analyzed from four aspects of the sliding mode controller in the stand-alone power supply mode, the sliding mode controller in the grid-connected power supply mode of single-phase grid-connected inverter, the current sliding mode controller in the grid-connected power supply mode of three-phase grid-connected inverter, the direct power sliding mode controller in the grid-connected power supply mode of three-phase grid-connected inverter. The research approach and idea of key technologies in sliding mode controller of photovoltaic grid-connected inverter, including the design of the sliding mode, the control law solution, system chattering and the stability in the process of reaching the sliding mode are summarized. A prospect of various new technologies and research orientation of the sliding mode controller of photovoltaic grid-connected inverter are made.