South Dakota Approves State's Largest Wind Farm

The 333-megawatt project will be the biggest in the state.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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South Dakota regulators have approved a permit for a $750 million, 333-megawatt wind farm that will be the largest in the state. The project is located about 85 miles east of Rapid City and north of Philip.

Why it matters

South Dakota is a national leader in wind energy production, ranking 9th in the country. This new wind farm will significantly boost the state's renewable energy capacity and help it move closer to its goal of generating a higher percentage of electricity from wind than any other state.

The details

The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission accepted a settlement agreement that outlines requirements the wind farm company must follow during construction and operation. The project will be located about 85 miles east of Rapid City and north of Philip.

  • The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission approved the permit on February 16, 2026.

The players

South Dakota Public Utilities Commission

The state regulatory agency that oversees utility companies and approved the permit for the new wind farm.

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What’s next

The wind farm company must now begin construction on the project, which is expected to take 12-18 months to complete.

The takeaway

This new wind farm will solidify South Dakota's position as a national leader in renewable energy production, helping the state generate a higher percentage of its electricity from wind than any other state in the country.