Abstract: A flexible laminated solar cell comprising a CIGS photovoltaic layer having two opposing generally flat first and second parallel surfaces; a first encapsulation layer placed on each of said first and second parallel surfaces; an encapsulation vapor barrier film placed on each of said first encaption layers; a second encapsulation layer placed on said encapsulation vapor barrier films; and a third encapsulation layer placed on at least one of said second encapsulation layers. The laminated structure with encapsulation layers protects the CIGS photovoltaic layer against moisture and atmospheric pollutants. The CIGS laminated structure is used in a versatile portable solar charger provided with user interfaces to monitor and control the charger and devices or features contained therein.

Abstract: A flexible laminated solar cell comprising a CIGS photovoltaic layer having two opposing generally flat first and second parallel surfaces; a first encapsulation layer placed on each of said first and second parallel surfaces; an encapsulation vapor barrier film placed on each of said first encaption layers; a second encapsulation layer placed on said encapsulation vapor barrier films; and a third encapsulation layer placed on at least one of said second encapsulation layers. The laminated structure with encapsulation layers protects the CIGS photovoltaic layer against moisture and atmospheric pollutants. The CIGS laminated structure is used in a versatile portable solar charger provided with user interfaces to monitor and control the charger and devices or features contained therein.