(1) The public utilities staff created pursuant to Section 77-2-1 and the Public Service Commission and commission staff shall have and possess all of the rights and powers to perform all of the duties vested by this chapter.
(2) The functions of the commission, with the aid and assistance of its staff, shall be regulatory and quasi-judicial in nature. It may make such investigations and determinations, hold such hearings, prescribe such rules and issue such orders with respect to the control and conduct of the businesses coming within its jurisdiction. It may adjudicate all proceedings brought before it in which the violation of any law or rule administered by the commission is alleged.
(3) The primary functions of the public utilities staff shall be investigative and advisory in nature.