A stable electrochromic stack is provided that is able to persistently hold a desired optical state (1). The stable electrochromic stack has at least two states. One state may be, for example, a bleached state in which light may readily pass, and the other state may be a colored state that distorts or interferes with the passage of light. Advantageously, the persistent electrochromic stack holds one or both of the optical states without the application of external power. The persistent time period may extend for days, weeks, or years depending on particular constructions, and on application requirements.