An electrochromic device includes a first flexible or rigid plastic substrate including a front surface, and a rear surface, wherein the rear surface comprises a first conductive material; and the front surface, the rear surface, or both the front surface and the rear surface of the first substrate comprises a gas diffusion barrier; and a second flexible or rigid plastic substrate including a front surface, and a rear surface, wherein the front surface comprises a second conductive material, wherein the first substrate is joined to the second substrate by a sealing member, where the rear surface of the first substrate and the front surface of the second substrate with the sealing member define a chamber therebetween.