The agency’s web-based portal enables Pennsylvania mine operators to submit operator license renewals, contract operator approvals and ownership and control registrations online and also enables mines to pay license fees with a credit card instead of being limited to the previously required checks and money orders.

Mine operators are required by law to renew operator licenses every year.

According to DEP statistics, more than 2000 licensing transactions are processed each year at a taxpayer cost of $44,573.

The eMine operator system could potentially save taxpayers $22,481 annually and cut industry costs by $37,209.

“This electronic product combines DEP’s commitment to protecting the environment with our goal of providing excellent customer service to the industries we regulate,” active and abandoned mining operations deputy secretary John Stefanko said.

The system is an eGovernment initiative led by the DEP’s Bureau of Information Technology aimed at reducing administrative and supply costs while improving data integrity and the efficiency of the state’s processes.

Pennsylvania operators must register for secure access to the system before submitting an online application.

The DEP said it would mail registration forms to operators approximately 90 days prior to the expiration date of their current license.