The Legislature finds that energy development in South Dakota and surrounding states affects the welfare of the population, the environmental quality, the location and growth of industry, and the use of agricultural and natural resources of the state. The Legislature also finds that by assuming permit authority, that the state must also ensure that facilities are permitted and constructed in an orderly and timely manner so that the energy, commerce, and transmission requirements of the people of the state are fulfilled. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the location, construction, and operation of facilities will produce minimal adverse effects on the environment and upon the citizens of this state by providing that the permitting or siting of a facility is determined by the commission and a facility may not be constructed or operated in this state without first obtaining a permit from the commission.
SDCL 49-41B-1