One Nassau County village has refused a man's request to equip his home with solar panels.

Robert Syverson purchased 30 panels so he could power his Bellerose Village home with solar energy. Since March, the village's Board of Architectural Review twice rejected Syverson's plan to install them, stating the panels would disrupt the character of the neighborhood.

"I understand where they're coming from, but I truly feel that solar panels are just like TV antennas and skylights and dishes," Syverson said. "This is something people have to get used to."

Syverson said his neighbors are behind him. So far, an appeals board isn't. The village said the appeals board hasn't yet reached a final decision.

Although he respects local zoning codes, Long Island Power Authority Chairman Kevin Law said municipalities need to encourage the use of solar power.