To identify a solar panel's polarity, check the MC4 connectors (male/female) or use a multimeter (DC voltage mode)—positive terminals show +V (e., +18V for a 20W panel), negative reads -V or zero. Wires are often red (positive) and black (negative), or labeled. . To determine the electrodes of solar panels effectively, a careful examination of the components involved is necessary. Familiarization with Electrode Types, 2. It also discusses checking solar panel polarity and fixing reverse. . What are photovoltaic cells & how do they work? Photovoltaic (PV) cells, or solar cells, are semiconductor devices that convert solar energy directly into DC electric energy.