After I've finished my Master's degree in mathematics, I too want to use my powers for good.
One endeavour I consider good is the pursuit of the design and implementation of a Smart Grid which will, supposedly, allow us to use our electricity more efficiently and connect decentralized energy sources (such a solar panels and wind-mills) to the grid.
I am wondering, though, to what extent studying mathematics is useful for this. The wikpedia article on Smart Grids includes a section on "Smart Grid Modelling". It mentions that, amongst other things, Percolation Theory, Kuramoto Oscillators, Maximum Entropy Methods and Markov Procecesses are studied within the context of designing a Smart Grid. However, most other subjects are more computer science-y.
So I could study these subjects so I can contribute to Smart Grid research when I'm a bit older. My question is, though, are there more subjects I should study to be able to contribute to Smart Grid research? What about (delay) (partial) differential equations, difference equations, optimization theory and operations research? Are these subjects useful as well? Should I study some topics in physics as well? (Such as electromagnetism?) Are there any Master's Programmes in Applied Mathematics that incorporate courses that specifically deal with Smart Grids?