Accounting Policies [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted Cash, Current Restricted Cash, Current Restricted cash Restricted Cash, Noncurrent Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net loss Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and accretion Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Amortization of financing costs Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Amortization of debt discount/premium, net Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Amortization of power purchase agreements, net Fair Value Adjustment, Amortization of Contractual Agreements Fair Value Adjustment, Amortization of Contractual Agreements Loss on derivatives, net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives and Commodity Contracts Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Deferred taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Earnings in unconsolidated investments, net Non Cash Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Non Cash Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Distributions from unconsolidated investments Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Other reconciling items Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Funds deposited by counterparty Increase (Decrease) Cash Collateral from Counterparties Trade receivables Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Prepaid expenses Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Other assets (non-current) Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Counterparty deposit liability Increase (decrease) in liability to return cash collateral Increase (decrease) in liability to return cash collateral to derivative counterparty Accrued interest Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Liabilities Long-term liabilities Increase Decrease In Long Term Liabilities Increase decrease in long term liabilities. Contingent liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash and restricted cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Capital expenditures Payments for Capital Improvements Distributions from unconsolidated investments Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Other assets Payments for (Proceeds from) Productive Assets Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Capital distributions - noncontrolling interest Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Payment for deferred financing costs Payments of Financing Costs Proceeds from revolving credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Repayment of revolving credit facility Repayments of Lines of Credit Proceeds from debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayment of debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Other financing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equiv And Restricted Cash, Period Increase Decrease Cash, Cash Equiv And Restricted Cash, Period Increase Decrease Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period Supplemental disclosures Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Cash payments for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Cash payments for interest expense Interest Paid, Net Schedule of non-cash activities Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Change in property, plant and equipment Increase Decrease In Property Plant And Equipment Reclasses within capitalized development costs, CIP and property. Change in other assets Amortization of Financing Costs, Construction in Progress Amortization of Financing Costs, Construction in Progress Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] El Arrayan [Member] El Arrayan [Member] El Arrayan [Member] Logan's Gap [Member] Logan's Gap [Member] Logan's Gap [Member] Panhandle One [Member] Panhandle One [Member] Panhandle One [Member] Panhandle Two [Member] Panhandle Two [Member] Panhandle Two [Member] Post Rock [Member] Post Rock [Member] Post Rock [Member] Amazon Wind Farm Flower Ridge [Member] Amazon Wind Farm Flower Ridge [Member] Amazon Wind Farm Flower Ridge [Member] Broadview Project [Member] Broadview Project [Member] Broadview Project [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Table] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Table] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Pattern Development [Member] Pattern Development [Member] Pattern Development [Member] Hatchet Ridge [Member] Hatchet Ridge Wind LLC [Member] Hatchet Ridge Wind LLC [Member] St Josephs [Member] St Josephs [Member] St Josephs [Member] Spring Valley [Member] Spring Valley [Member] Spring Valley [Member] Pattern Santa Isabel LLC [Member] Santa Isabel [Member] Santa Isabel [Member] Ocotillo [Member] Ocotillo [Member] Ocotillo [Member] Pattern Gulf Wind LLC [Member] Pattern Gulf Wind LLC [Member] Pattern Gulf Wind LLC [Member] Lost Creek Wind, LLC [Member] Lost Creek Wind, LLC [Member] Lost Creek Wind, LLC [Member] Broadview [Member] Broadview [Member] Broadview [Member] Pattern Development 2.0 [Member] Pattern Development 2.0 [Member] Pattern Development 2.0 [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Line Items] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Line Items] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Line Items] Ownership Interest in the Company by Pattern Development Ownership Interest in the Company by Pattern Development Ownership Interest in the Company by Pattern Development Ownership Percentage Ownership Percentage Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments Percentage of ownership Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity [Abstract] Summary of Cash Dividends Declared on Class A Common Stock Dividends Declared [Table Text Block] Noncontrolling Interests By Project Noncontrolling Interests By Project [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for Noncontrolling Interests By Project [Table] Summary of Noncontrolling Interest Balances Noncontrolling Interest Table [Table Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest Table [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Western Interconnect [Member] Western Interconnect [Member] Western Interconnect [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Unsecured senior notes 2024 [Member] Unsecured senior notes 2024 [Member] Unsecured senior notes 2024 [Member] Convertible debt [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Contractual Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Current portion of long-term debt including accrued interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Including Accrued Interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Including Accrued Interest Long-term Debt, Gross Long-term Debt, Gross Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate Increase Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate Increase Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate increase. Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Federal funds rate [Member] Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member] Eurodollar [Member] Eurodollar [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate Increase Interval Period Debt Instrument, Basis Spread On Variable Rate Interest Period Percentage points added to the reference period to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Operating wind farms [Member] Operating Wind Farms [Member] Operating Wind Farms [Member] Furniture, fixtures and equipment [Member] Furniture Fixtures And Equipment [Member] Furniture Fixtures And Equipment [Member] Transmission line [Member] Transmission line [Member] Transmission line [Member] Land [Member] Land [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Power Purchase Agreements [Member] Power Purchase Agreements [Member] Power Purchase Agreements [Member] Industrial revenue bond tax savings [Member] Industrial revenue bond tax savings [Member] Industrial revenue bond tax savings [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Remaining Amortization Period Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Remaining Amortization Period Finite lived intangible liabilities remaining amortization period. Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Gross Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Gross Finite lived intangible liabilities gross. Finite Lived Intangible Liability Accumulated Amortization Finite Lived Intangible Liability Accumulated Amortization Finite lived intangible liability accumulated amortization. Finite Lived Intangible Liability Net Finite Lived Intangible Liability Net Amount recognized as an intangible liability when the contract price is lower than the estimated fair value. Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Accumulated amortization of debt financing costs Accumulated Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements Class A common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Class A common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Class A common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] PSP [Member] PSP [Member] PSP [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Maximum co-investment amount for projects Related Party Transaction, Maximum Co-investment Authorized Amount Related Party Transaction, Maximum Co-investment Authorized Amount Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Derivative Instruments Classified as Assets (Liabilities) Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Reconciliation Between BS and SCF for Cash Cash Equivalent and Restricted Cash [Table Text Block] Reconciliation Between BS and SCF for Cash Cash Equivalent and Restricted Cash [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash as presented on the Statement of Cash Flows Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets and Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets and Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets and Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] 2017 (remainder) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Schedule of Balances of Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Long-term debt excluding revolving credit facility [Member] Long-term debt excluding revolving credit facility [Member] Long term debt excluding revolving credit facility [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Long-term debt, including current portion as reflected on balance sheets Long-term Debt Fair value, Long-term debt, including current portion Long-term Debt, Fair Value Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Liability Class [Axis] Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Balances, beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Purchase Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases Total loss included in other income, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Settlement Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Settlements Balances, end of period Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Trade receivables Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Property, plant and equipment, net Finite-lived intangible assets, net Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued construction costs Construction Payable, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Finite-lived intangible liability, net Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] South Kent [Member] South Kent [Member] South Kent [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Revenue Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Cost of revenue Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cost of Sales Operating expenses Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Operating Expenses Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Operating Expenses Other expense Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Other Income Expenses Equity method investment summarized financial information other income (expenses). Net income (loss) Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Pattern Development 1.0 [Member] Pattern Development 1.0 [Member] Pattern Development 1.0 [Member] Unconsolidated Equity Method Investments [Member] Unconsolidated Equity Method Investments [Member] Unconsolidated Equity Method Investments [Member] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Due from Related Parties Due from Related Parties Due to Related Parties Due to Related Parties Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Financial Assets and Liabilities Required Fair Value Measurement on Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring Level 3, Valuation Techniques Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Energy Derivative Contract Measured at Fair Value Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Carrying Amounts and Fair Values of Company's Financial Liabilities Financial Instruments Not Measured At Fair Value Table [Table Text Block] Financial Instruments Not Measured At Fair Value Table [Table Text Block] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents (Note 6) Funds deposited by counterparty Cash Collateral from Derivative Counterparty The carrying amount of cash collateral received from hedge counterparties in support of energy risk management activities for which there is an offsetting liability within current liabilities. The Company does not have the right to pledge, invest, or use the cash collateral for general corporate purposes. Trade receivables (Note 6) Derivative assets, current Derivative Asset, Current Prepaid expenses (Note 6) Deferred financing costs, current, net of accumulated amortization of $10,606 and $9,350 as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Net Other current assets (Note 6) Total current assets Restricted Cash, Noncurrent Property, plant and equipment, net Unconsolidated investments Derivative assets Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Deferred financing costs Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Gross Net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Finite-lived intangible assets, net Other assets (Note 6) Total assets Liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities (Note 6) Accrued construction costs (Note 6) Counterparty deposit liability Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Accrued interest (Note 6) Dividends payable Dividends Payable, Current Derivative liabilities, current Derivative Liability, Current Revolving credit facility Line of Credit, Current Current portion of long-term debt, net Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Other current liabilities (Note 6) Total current liabilities Long-term debt, net Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Finite-lived intangible liability, net Contingent liabilities Loss Contingency, Accrual, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities (Note 6) Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 15) Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Class A common stock, $0.01 par value per share: 500,000,000 shares authorized; 87,637,816 and 87,410,687 shares outstanding as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated loss Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock, at cost; 115,146 and 110,964 shares of Class A common stock as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Total equity before noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Table] Meikle Wind Energy Limited Partnership [Member] Meikle Wind Energy Limited Partnership [Member] Meikle Wind Energy Limited Partnership [Member] Mont Sainte-Marguerite Wind Farm LP [Member] Mont Sainte-Marguerite Wind Farm LP [Member] Mont Sainte-Marguerite Wind Farm LP [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Miekle Project Company [Member] Miekle Project Company [Member] Miekle Project Company [Member] Limited Partner Interest In Newly-formed Limited Partnership [Member] Limited Partner Interest In Newly-formed Limited Partnership [Member] Limited Partner Interest In Newly-formed Limited Partnership [Member] Pattern MSM GP Holdings, Inc. [Member] Pattern MSM GP Holdings, Inc. [Member] Pattern MSM GP Holdings, Inc. [Member] Pattern Development MSM Management ULC [Member] Pattern Development MSM Management ULC [Member] Pattern Development MSM Management ULC [Member] Power Sale Agreements [Member] Power Sale Agreements [Member] Power Sale Agreements [Member] Project Finance Agreements [Member] Project Finance Agreements [Member] Project Finance Agreements [Member] Turbine Availability Warranty and Service Guarantee [Member] Turbine Availability Warranty and Service Guarantee [Member] Turbine Availability Warranty and Service Guarantee [Member] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Equity Method Investments [Member] Equity Method Investments [Member] Transmission Service Agreement [Member] Transmission Service Agreement [Member] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] Interest in Western Interconnect by third party [Member] Interest in Western Interconnect by third party [Member] Interest in Western Interconnect by third party [Member] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Continued Operation Of Broadview [Member] Continued Operation Of Broadview [Member] Continued Operation Of Broadview [Member] Continued Operation Of Grady [Member] Continued Operation Of Grady [Member] Continued Operation Of Grady [Member] Other Commitments [Line Items] Other Commitments [Line Items] Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Generating Capacity Generating Capacity Power generation capacity. Other Commitment Other Commitment Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Operating Lease, Cost Operating Lease, Cost Operating Lease, Expense Operating Lease, Expense Change In Other Commitment Change In Other Commitment Change In Other Commitment Termination Date Termination Date Termination Date Letters of credit issued Loss contingency accrual Loss Contingency Accrual Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Purchase Agreement, Maximum Potential Equity Ownership Percentage Purchase Agreement, Maximum Potential Equity Ownership Percentage Purchase Agreement, Maximum Potential Equity Ownership Percentage Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Class B membership interest in Broadview Holdings [Member] Class B membership interest in Broadview Holdings [Member] Class B membership interest in Broadview Holdings [Member] Broadview Holdings' Interest in Broadview [Member] Broadview Holdings' Interest in Broadview [Member] Broadview Holdings' Interest in Broadview [Member] Initial distributable cash flow from Broadview [Member] Initial distributable cash flow from Broadview [Member] Initial distributable cash flow from Broadview [Member] Class A membership interest in Broadview Holdings by NCI [Member] Class A membership interest in Broadview Holdings by NCI [Member] Class A membership interest in Broadview Holdings by NCI [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Transmission line length Transmission line length Transmission line length Transmission-level voltage Transmission-level voltage Transmission-level voltage Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated Derivative Instruments [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Undesignated Derivative Instruments [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate swaps [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Energy derivative [Member] Energy Related Derivative [Member] Foreign currency forward contracts [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Fair Market Value, Assets Current Portion Fair Market Value, Assets Long-Term Portion Fair Market Value, Liabilities Current Portion Fair Market Value, Liabilities Long-Term Portion Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Unaudited Interim Financial Information Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Corporate level [Member] Corporate level [Member] Corporate level [Member] Project level [Member] Project level [Member] Project level [Member] Project-level interest and commitment fees incurred Debt Related Commitment Fees and Debt Issuance Costs Amortization of debt discount/premium, net Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Amortization of financing costs Amortization Of Deferred Financing Costs Amortization Of Deferred Financing Costs Other interest Interest Expense, Other Interest expense Interest Expense Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Computations of Class A Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Beginning asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Net additions during the period (1) Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Foreign currency translation adjustment Asset Retirement Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Accretion expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Ending asset retirement obligations Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Change in Fair Value, Net of Settlement [Member] Change in Fair Value [Member] Change in Fair Value [Member] Derivative Settlement [Member] Derivative Settlement [Member] Derivative Settlement [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Loss on undesignated derivatives, net Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Electricity sales Gain (Loss) on Price Risk Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Loss on undesignated derivatives, net Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Parent Company [Member] Parent Company [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Loss [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Capital Units [Member] Capital Units [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Balance, shares Common Stock, Shares, Issued Issuance of Class A common stock under equity incentive award plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Issuance of Class A common stock under equity incentive award plan, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Repurchase of shares for employee tax withholding Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Repurchase of shares for employee tax withholding, shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Dividends declared Dividends Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Distributions to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending Balance Balance, shares Schedule of Asset Retirement Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Asset Retirement Obligations [Table Text Block] Revenue from Related Parties Revenue from Related Parties Related Party Transaction Reimbursement From Transactions With Related Party Related Party Transaction Reimbursement From Transactions With Related Party Related party transaction reimbursement from transactions with related party Related party general and administrative Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Schedule of Long Term Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reconciliation of Interest Expense Interest expense components [Table Text Block] Interest expense components [Table Text Block] Schedule of Convertible Debt Convertible Debt [Table Text Block] Capital [Member] Accumulated Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] AOCI Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Distribution to noncontrolling interests Other Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Net loss Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Ending balance Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Grand [Member] Grand Renewable Wind L P [Member] Grand Renewable Wind L P [Member] K2 [Member] KTwo [Member] KTwo [Member] Armow [Member] Armow [Member] Armow [Member] Revenues Revenues Operating Expenses Operating Expenses Net loss Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Long-term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Dividends Payable, Date Declared Dividends Payable, Date Declared Dividends payment date Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Record date for dividends declared Dividends Payable, Date of Record Dividends payable Per Share (in dollars per share) Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share Dividends annualized (in dollars per share) Dividends Payable Amount Per Share Annualized Dividends payable amount per share annualized. Increase in dividends payable percentage Increase (Decrease) In Dividends Payable Percentage Increase (Decrease) In Dividends Payable Percentage Cash paid for acquisition Payments in lieu taxes [Member] Payments in lieu taxes [Member] Payments in lieu taxes [Member] Service and Maintenance Agreements [Member] Service and Maintenance Agreements [Member] Service and Maintenance Agreements [Member] Other Commitment, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Other Commitment, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Remainder of 2017 Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months 2018 Other Commitment, Due in Second Year 2019 Other Commitment, Due in Third Year 2020 Other Commitment, Due in Fourth Year 2021 Other Commitment, Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Other Commitment, Due after Fifth Year Total Remainder of 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Remainder of 2017 Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Fiscal Year 2018 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2019 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year 2020 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year 2021 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Total Contractual Obligation Organization Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Restricted Cash Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Restricted Cash Amount of restricted cash acquired at the acquisition date. Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Financing Costs, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Financing Costs, Net Amount of deferred financing costs, net acquired at the acquisition date Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Construction Cost Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Construction Cost Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Construction Cost Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Related Party Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Related Party Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Related Party Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Asset Retirement Obligation Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Asset Retirement Obligation Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Asset Retirement Obligation Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest Amortization of basis difference for equity method investment Amortization of basis difference for equity method investment Amortization of basis difference for equity method investment Gains on distributions from unconsolidated investments Equity Method Distributions In Excess of Unconsolidated Investment Equity method distributions in excess of carrying value of unconsolidated investment Distribution received in excess of carrying amount of the unconsolidated investments recorded within the memo ledger balance Distribution received in excess of carrying amount of the unconsolidated investments recorded within the memo ledger balance Distribution received in excess of carrying amount of the unconsolidated investments of which memo ledger balance was made up Unrecorded Equity Earnings Or Losses Unrecorded Equity Earnings Or Losses Unrecorded Equity Earnings Or Losses For Suspended Equity-Method Investments Unrecorded Other Comprehensive Income Or Loss For Suspended Equity-Method Investments Unrecorded Other Comprehensive Income Or Loss For Suspended Equity-Method Investments Unrecorded Other Comprehensive Income Or Loss For Suspended Equity-Method Investments Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative, Remaining Maturity Derivative, Remaining Maturity AOCL to be reclassified within 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Nonmonetary notional amount Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Dividends Per Share (in dollars per share) Finite Lived Intangible Assets And Liability [Text Block] Finite Lived Intangible Assets And Liability [Text Block] The contract price is higher than the estimated fair value is recognized as an intangible asset. The contract price is lower than the estimated fair value is recognized as an intangible liability. Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Sale of Stock by Subsidiary or Equity Investee [Table] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Sale of Stock by Subsidiary or Equity Investee [Table] Class B membership interests in Panhandle 2 Holdings [Member] Class B membership interests in Panhandle 2 Holdings [Member] Class B membership interests in Panhandle 2 Holdings [Member] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items] Ownership percentage to be sold Ownership Interest to be Sold Ownership Percentage to be Sold Consideration for sale of project interests Sale Price for Sale of Interests Sale price for sale of ownership interests Equity Distribution Agreement Maximum Aggregate Sales Price Equity Distribution Agreement Maximum Aggregate Sales Price The maximum amount of aggregate sales under the Equity Distribution Agreement Shares Sold Under the Equity Distribution Agreement Shares Sold Under the Equity Distribution Agreement Shares Sold Under the Equity Distribution Agreement Equity Distribution Agreement Remaining Aggregate Sales Available Equity Distribution Agreement Remaining Aggregate Sales Available The remaining amount of aggregate sales available under the Equity Distribution Agreement as of the balance sheet date Summary of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions Receivable and Payable [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions Receivable and Payable [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions Receivable and Payable [Table Text Block] Related party revenue and expenses included in Consolidated Statements of Operations Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Earnings (Loss) Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Acquisition Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Principal of convertible senior notes Unamortized debt discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Unamortized financing costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Carrying value of convertible senior notes Convertible Debt Carrying value of the equity component Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Equity component of convertible debt issuance costs Equity Component of Convertible Debt Issuance Costs Equity Component of Convertible Debt Issuance Costs Unconsolidated Investments Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Derivative asset Derivative Asset Derivative liability Derivative Liability Contingent consideration Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue: Revenues [Abstract] Electricity sales Electric Revenue Other revenue Other Revenue, Net Total revenue Cost of revenue: Cost of Revenue [Abstract] Project expense Cost of Services, Energy Services Transmission costs Cost of Transmission Depreciation and accretion Cost of Services, Depreciation and Amortization Total cost of revenue Cost of Revenue Gross profit Gross Profit Operating expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] General and administrative (Note 16) General and Administrative Expense Related party general and administrative Total operating expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other income (expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Loss on undesignated derivatives, net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Earnings in unconsolidated investments, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Net loss on transactions Nonoperating Gains (Losses) Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other expense Nonoperating Income (Expense) Net loss before income tax Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Tax provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net loss Net income (loss) attributable to Pattern Energy Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Pattern Energy Basic and diluted Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Dividends declared per Class A common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Foreign currency translation, tax impact Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives, tax benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax Reclassifications to net loss, tax impact Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax Effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives, tax benefit - equity investee Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Arising During Period Tax Proportionate Share Of Equity Investee Other comprehensive income unrealized gain loss on derivatives arising during period tax proportionate share of equity investee. Reclassifications to net loss, tax impact - equity investee Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI On Derivatives Tax Proportionate Share Of Equity Investee Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment from aoci on derivatives tax proportionate share of equity investee. Effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives, tax benefit - noncontrolling interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Reclassifications to net loss, tax impact - noncontrolling interest Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI On Derivatives Tax Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI On Derivatives Tax Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Foreign Currency [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Effective Portion of Change in Fair Value of Derivatives [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Proportionate Share of Equity Investee's OCI [Member] Accumulated Proportionate Share Of Equity Investees Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Accumulated Proportionate Share Of Equity Investees Other Comprehensive Income [Member] AOCI [Member] AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Less: accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to Pattern Energy Depreciation expense related to property, plant and equipment Depreciation Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] Energy Related Derivative [Member] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] Valuation Technique [Domain] Discounted Cash Flow [Member] Discounted Cash Flow [Member] Discounted Cash Flow [Member] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Annual energy production loss Annual energy production loss Percentage of annual energy production loss due to wake effects and transmission losses Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Forward electricity price Fair Value Inputs, Price Per MWh Fair Value Inputs, Price Per MWh Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Post-Closing Payment Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Post-Closing Payment Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Post-Closing Payment Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Revolver credit facility [Member] Revolver credit facility [Member] Revolver credit facility [Member] Convertible senior notes 2020 [Member] Convertible senior notes 2020 [Member] Convertible senior notes 2020 [Member] E1 Arrayan EKF term loan [Member] El Arrayan Eksport Kredit Fonden Of Denmark Term Loan [Member] El Arrayan Eksport Kredit Fonden Of Denmark Term Loan [Member] Santa Isabel term loan [Member] Santa Isabel Term Loan [Member] Santa Isabel Term Loan [Member] Ocotillo commercial term loan [Member] Ocotillo Commercial Term Loan [Member] Ocotillo Commercial Term Loan [Member] Lost Creek term loan [Member] Lost Creek Term Loan [Member] Lost Creek Term Loan [Member] El Arrayan commercial term loan [Member] El Arrayan Commercial Term Loan [Member] El Arrayan Commercial Term Loan [Member] Spring Valley term loan [Member] Spring Valley Term Loan [Member] Spring Valley Term Loan [Member] Ocotillo development term loan [Member] Ocotillo Development Term Loan [Member] Ocotillo Development Term Loan [Member] St. Joseph term loan [Member] St Joseph Credit Agreement [Member] St Joseph Credit Agreement [Member] Hatchet Ridge financing lease obligation [Member] Hatchet Ridge Term Loan [Member] Hatchet Ridge Term Loan [Member] Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Unamortized financing costs Debt Issuance Costs, Net Total debt, net Effective Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Maturity Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description Long-term debt, less current portion Notional Amount of Outstanding Derivative Contracts [Table] Notional Amount of Outstanding Derivative Contracts [Table] Notional Amount of Outstanding Derivative Contracts [Table] Notional Amount of Outstanding Derivative Contracts [Line Items] Notional Amount of Outstanding Derivative Contracts [Line Items] [Line Items] for Notional Amount of Outstanding Derivative Contracts [Table] Notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Gains (losses) recognized in accumulated OCI, Effective portion of change in fair value Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Gains (losses) reclassified from accumulated OCI into income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Gains (losses) recognized in interest expense, ineffective portion Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Earnings Per Share, Basic, Two Class Method [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic, Two Class Method [Abstract] Less: earnings allocated to participating securities Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Basic Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Common Stockholders Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Common Stockholders Amount of undistributed earnings (loss) allocated to common stockholders for the basic earnings (loss) per share or per unit calculation under the two-class method Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Denominator for earnings (loss) per share: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract] Class A common stock - basic Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Class A common stock - diluted Calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic and diluted Other comprehensive (loss) income: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation, net of zero tax impact Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Derivative activity: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax [Abstract] Effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax (provision) benefit of ($98), $1,379, ($59) and $4,102, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassifications to net loss, net of tax impact of $236, $281, $487 and $583, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Total change in effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Proportionate share of equity investee’s derivative activity: Other Comprehensive Income Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Proportionate Share Of Equity Investee Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Proportionate Share Of Equity Investee Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax (provision) benefit of ($1,064), $1,296, ($285) and $3,969, respectively Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Arising During Period Net Of Tax Proportionate Share Of Equity Investee Other comprehensive income unrealized gain loss on derivatives arising during period net of tax proportionate share of equity investee. Reclassifications to net loss, net of tax impact of $629, $470, $1,661 and $922, respectively Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI On Derivatives Net Of Tax Proportionate Share Of Equity Investee Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment from aoci on derivatives net of tax proportionate share of equity investee Total change in effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives Other Comprehensive Income Loss Share Equity Method Investee Net Of Tax Proportionate share of equity investee's other comprehensive (loss) income activity, net of tax benefit (provision). Comprehensive (loss) income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Derivative activity: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax (provision) benefit of $93, $164, $101 and $507, respectively Other Comprehensive Income Loss Unrealized Gain Losson Derivatives Arising During Period Netof Tax Portion Attributableto Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income Loss Unrealized Gain Loss on Derivatives Arising During Period Netof Tax Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest. Reclassifications to net loss, net of tax impact of $29, $40, $62 and $87, respectively Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI On Derivatives Net Of Tax Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI On Derivatives Net Of Tax Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Total change in effective portion of change in fair market value of derivatives Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Pattern Energy Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Debt Assumed Investment Secondary Categorization [Axis] Investment Secondary Categorization [Axis] Investments by Secondary Categorization [Domain] Investments by Secondary Categorization [Domain] Schedule of Projects Accounted under Equity Method of Accounting Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Aggregate Operating Results of Unconsolidated Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Aggregate Operating Results of Unconsolidated Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Aggregate Operating Results of Unconsolidated Investments [Table Text Block] Significant Equity Method Investee Summarized Income Statement Significant Equity Method Investee Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block] Significant Equity Method Investee Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block] Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Balances, beginning of period Total gain (loss) included in electricity sales Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Balances, end of period Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding