Based on the provided data for the consumption of hard coal by the UK non-ferrous metals sector, there is a clear downward trend from 2024 to 2028, with values decreasing from 20.4 thousand metric tons in 2024 to 14.8 thousand metric tons in 2028. It is noteworthy that in 2023, the consumption stood above the 2024 forecast value. Year-on-year percentage decreases indicate a consistent decline over the forecasted years, while the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) captures an ongoing downward trajectory.

Future trends to monitor:

Emergence and adoption of alternative energy sources that might accelerate coal consumption decline.
Potential regulatory changes aimed at reducing carbon emissions, influencing energy choices in the non-ferrous sector.
Technological advancements in energy efficiency within the non-ferrous metals industry, impacting future energy consumption patterns.