NOVELTY - A photovoltaic system comprises a base flexible membrane layer; a photovoltaic layer having photovoltaic cell(s); a semi-rigid layer for supporting the photovoltaic layer and imparting rigidity to the photovoltaic layer; and a top transparent protective layer. The photovoltaic layer and the semi-rigid layer are disposed between the base flexible membrane layer and the top protective layer. The layers are attached to form a unitary structure.    USE - For use in e.g. roofing applications.    ADVANTAGE - The invention provides a photovoltaic system adapted to accommodate the use of relatively larger rigid photovoltaic cells.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - A photovoltaic system comprises a base flexible membrane layer (26); a photovoltaic layer (30) having photovoltaic cell(s); a semi-rigid layer (28) for supporting the photovoltaic layer and imparting rigidity to the photovoltaic layer; and a top transparent protective layer (34) for protecting the base flexible membrane layer, semi-rigid layer and 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. The base flexible membrane layer, semi-rigid layer, photovoltaic layer and top protective layer are attached together to form a unitary structure. An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is also included for a method of making a photovoltaic system comprising providing a base flexible membrane layer and a top transparent protective layer; placing a semi-rigid layer and a photovoltaic layer having photovoltaic cell(s) between the base flexible membrane layer and the top protective layer; and attaching the layers together to form a unitary structure.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The figure shows an exploded perspective view of a photovoltaic system of the invention.    Base flexible membrane layer (26)    Semi-rigid layer (28)    Photovoltaic layer (30)    Top transparent protective layer (34)    Fluoropolymer film (42)    Top surface (44)