A solid fuel skewer suspension burning system for a kiln, comprises a skewer rod and a solid fuel loading system. The skewer rod has a first end and a length that extends longitudinally. The solid fuel loading system includes a fuel centering and staging area that receives fuel from a conveyor system, and a fuel loading area that receives fuel from the fuel centering and staging area. The solid fuel is inserted upon the skewer rod at the fuel loading area. The solid fuel loading system also includes a first clamp, an airlock and a plow. The first clamp holds the skewer rod and defines a first position between the first clamp and a free end of the skewer rod. The airlock is spaced from the first clamp and has a first airlock gate and a second airlock gate. The plow reciprocates substantially longitudinally in cooperation with the skewer rod to advance fuel along at least a portion of the length of the skewer rod.