Abstract: The present invention relates to a photovoltaic system and methods of making same. The photovoltaic system has a plurality of layers attached to each other to form a unitary structure. More specifically, the photovoltaic system includes: a base, flexible membrane layer; a photovoltaic layer having at least one photovoltaic cell associated therewith; a semi-rigid layer for supporting the photovoltaic layer and imparting rigidity thereto; and a top, transparent, protective layer for protecting the base, flexible membrane layer, the semi-rigid layer and the photovoltaic layer from exposure to the environment. The photovoltaic layer and the semi-rigid layer are disposed between the base, flexible membrane layer and the top, protective layer. Additional layers of adhesive may be disposed between the various layers to facilitate bonding thereof.