Deregulation means a reduction of government control and the insertion of competition into formerly monopolistic markets. One can look to the telecommunications industry as a model for electricity's future. After allowing regulated competition in the market, we have enjoyed lower prices and more innovation. We have not experienced the breakdown in reliability that many feared. Your greedy Palm Pilot needs inexpensive and efficient service from the telecommunications and electric power industry.
Deregulation can keep it connected and powered up cheaply.