Abstract: A method for the utilization of ash from coal-fired plants, in which openss ash is drawn off when it is dry for further use. According to one embodiment of the invention, the open-pass ash is used as a raw material and fuel in cement production. According to another embodiment, the open-pass ash is used as bed sand with combustible constituents in fluidized-bed firing. According to still another embodiment, the ash is used for the purpose of influencing sinterability in the production of sintered lightweight aggregates. The mineral constituents can be separated from carbon-containing constituents, which are capable of being used as fuel or activated coke, and used as fine sand in any of these embodiments.