Supporters of the mine warned that coking coal remained vital for a domestic steel industry that would otherwise rely on countries such as China and Russia for imports.
Tata and British Steel have said they plan to eventually move to lower carbon production methods.
Britain was solely reliant on electricity generated by coal plants at the start of the 20th century, with the fuel continuing to generate 40pc of the UK’s power until a decade ago in 2012.
Growth in renewable energy sources has cut this figure to zero.
Michael Shanks, the energy minister, said the decision will help the UK to transition to a more “clean, secure energy system”.
He said: “Coal mining powered this country for over 140 years and we owe a huge debt to workers who kept the lights on for homes and businesses across the country.
“Now the UK is in prime position to lead the way in phasing out coal power around the world, which remains the single largest contributor to global emissions.
“By consigning coal power to the past, we can pave the way for a clean, secure energy system that will protect bill payers and create a new generation of skilled workers.”