Abstract: In order to investigate the feasibility on semicoke substitute for anthracite in energy conservation and emissions reduction,the ignition time,combustion duration,burn- out ratio and pollutant emissions of semicoke and anthracite were compared in a civilian heating boiler. The results showed that,the ignition time of semicoke and anthracite was 297. 25,303. 25 minutes respectively,the carbon residue of semicoke only accounted for one tenth of that of anthracite. The NOxand SO2 emission of semicoke was one seventh and one forth of those of anthracite respectively. Due to the lack of oxygen,there were large amounts of CO emissions during semicoke or anthracite combustion.