A photovoltaic glazing assembly including first and second substrates, at least one being formed of a light transmitting material. The assembly includes a photovoltaic coating over at least the central region of a surface of the first substrate or the second substrate. In some embodiments, a seal system encloses a gas space between the substrates and optionally has a thickness of between approximately 0.01 inch and approximately 0.1 inch. Certain embodiments provide a flexible and electrically non- conductive retention film over the photovoltaic coating. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly can have a peripheral seal system with relative dimensions in certain ranges. Advantageous manufacturing methods are also provided.
