The Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL) has mandated the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) to initiate the clearance of regulatory asset dues exceeding ₹38,000 crore (approximately $4.6 billion USD) within three weeks. This decision comes amid concerns that electricity tariffs may increase to cover these costs. The tribunal criticized the DERC for its repeated delays in addressing these dues, which have accumulated since tariffs were last revised in 2014-15. APTEL rejected the DERC's plea for an extension and emphasized the need for an independent audit of the power distribution companies, dismissing the commission's proposal for a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit. The tribunal's order highlights the urgency of addressing the mounting regulatory assets, which are deferred costs that arise when electricity tariffs do not reflect rising supply expenses. The DERC is required to develop a phased recovery plan to clear these dues by March 31, 2031. The Delhi government has expressed its commitment to protecting consumers from the burden of increased tariffs, citing inefficiencies and corruption as contributing factors to the current situation.