Monday, October 19, 2009 at 3:07:28 PM - by Nate Lew

A large Massachusetts biotech company has announced a substantial solar energy investment.

This week, Millipore Corporation reported that it had completed a $2 million solar panel installation project at its facility in Bedford, Massachusetts. Governor Deval Patrick was among the dignitaries on hand to witness the unveiling of the project.

The changes we are implementing not only make sense for the environment, but they also have a considerable positive impact on our business. We are excited about completing the solar panel project, which marks an important continuation of our efforts to embrace renewable energy throughout the company," said David Newman, sustainability director for Millipore.

According to the company, its photovoltaic project is one of the largest of its kind in Massachusetts and will generate enough electricity to power about 35 homes each year.

Millipore has set a goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent between 2006 and 2011, and reported that the current project means it has now cut emissions by 14 percent. Massachusetts is also one of many states to have announced efforts to reduce greenhouse emissions in the coming years.