5. Storage at point of use

Coal storage at the place of use is always necessary to ensure the customer's security of supply. The size and nature of the stock depends on the size and technology of the thermal equipment to be supplied, the distance from the source of supply, the ease and method of delivery, the degree of security required, and the possibility of back-up.

The type of storage determines the recovery and handling equipment required. The five types of storage used are described below.