BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, along with Congressman Michael Capuano today announced that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology will receive up to $1.5 million for its work developing high performance, low-cost solar energy technology.

The funding from the Department of Energy (DOE) will help M.I.T., along with 10 other universities nationwide, study ways in which make solar energy cost competitive with conventional forms of energy by 2015.

“Fighting global climate change starts by changing the way we use energy. Increasing the use of solar energy is critical to not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions and our dependence on foreign oil, but helping working Americans pay the bills at a time of skyrocketing energy costs,” said Senator Kerry. “M.I.T.’s cutting edge work in making solar energy more cost effective is the kind of smart, common sense solution that we need.”

“Renewable, safe and clean energy is essential to the future of our economy and our country,” said Senator Kennedy. “M.I.T. is leading the way on these vital efforts, and I commend its outstanding researchers for their dedication and the progress they’ve achieved.”

“Increasing our understanding and use of solar energy is an important component of efforts to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. I commend MIT for its ongoing research developing ways to make solar energy more cost effective and efficient,” stated Congressman Mike Capuano.