There are a number of incentives for potential users of coal slurry fuels--and in particular for coal-water mixtures (CWMs) which the authors address in this paper. First, CWM represents an assured supply of fuel at a price which is quite easily predictable into future years. Second CWM is available in the near term. There are no substantial advances in technology which need to be made in order to provide coal slurry fuels commercially. Third, there is minimal new equipment required to accomodate CWM in the end-user's facility as compared to 100% coal conversion. Fourth, CWM is nearly as convenient to handle, store, and combust as is fuel oil. Finally, it will often be possible to extend the economic life of existing boilers by utilizing CWM.