The present disclosure provides an apparatus for collecting solar energy for electrical energy generation through one or more thermodynamic closed-cycle heat engines or the like. The present invention includes new designs for solar collectors that concentrate solar energy, and mechanisms for transporting and transferring the concentrated solar energy directly into the working fluid (e.g., a liquid, a gas, or a phase change substance) of the closed cycle thermodynamic engines without heating the outside surface of the engines. In an exemplary embodiment, the present utilizes an inflatable design for a dual-surface reflector which provides low cost and weight, protection from external elements, and the ability to inflate/deflate as required.