There is a small gas burner underneath the charcoal grate in the bottom half of the bbq. It runs on a disposable propane cylinder
You take the charcoal and pile it over the burner, and turn it on. The gas flame will get the charcoal ready to cook in no time. you then spread the coals evenly on the charcoal grate and you're ready to cook. Depending on conditions, shouldn't take more than 10 minutes at most. Once the coals are hot and ashed-over (white ash coating) they're ready.
The black resin bin on the right hand side of the bbq is the charcoal storage bin. Always best to use standard charcoal briquettes, although lump charcoal works well also.

Any kind of charcoal will work, however charcoal briquettes are uniform in size and shape, and therefore will give you the most even heat.

No, you cannot use a full size cylinder with the performer. Doing so will void the warranty.

No, the grill is in a fixed position, as is the charcoal grate.

I was looking at both the 22.5" One-Touch Gold and the Weber Performer.
Decided on the Weber Performer and bought one last weekend.
They both have the exact same stainless steel, One-Touch™ cleaning system.
The only difference is the performer has a black aluminum high-capacity ash catcher, while the 22.5" One-Touch Gold has a silver colour one.

Home Depot. try the plumbing department.

It's a straightforward assembly process. Shouldn't take you more than 1 hour MAX.

If you need help during the process, please call 800.265.2150 and we can try and help.

It might help at the start, instead of rolled up newspaper or lighter fluid. However, you will still create lots of smoke just by cooking, that's what gives food bbq flavour. You should also check your local bylaws for the use of any type of bbq on a balcony.

special order at your local home depot store.

part number for that cover is 7455

You can use wood, however you will get optimum results with charcoal briquets. They're more uniform in shape, and can provide even heating and more flexibility when adding more charcoal.
If you like the wood smoke flavour, I'd suggest GrillPro wood chips, available in Apple, Mesquite or Hickory. They're available in the store. Just soak them in water for half an hour, and put them on top of the hot coals.