Note 13 - Stock-based Compensation (Detail) - Consolidated Stock-Based Compensation Expense, by Type of Awards (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 455	$ 461	[1]
Stock Options [Member]
Stock-based compensation expense	349	269
Restricted Stock [Member]
Stock-based compensation expense	106	192
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 455	$ 461

[1] As recast to reflect the balances of Solar Green Technology S.p.A. ("SGT") beginning January 1, 2011 combined with the balances of Solar Power, Inc. beginning March 31, 2011, as required under the accounting guidelines for a transfer of an entity under common control (refer to Note 5 -Acquisition of Solar Green Technology).