Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents (Note 8) Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash (Note 8) Restricted Cash, Current Counterparty collateral 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 8) Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Derivative assets, current Derivative Asset, Current Prepaid expenses (Note 8) Prepaid Expense, Current Deferred financing costs, current, net of accumulated amortization of $2,409 and $2,580 as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively Debt Issuance Costs, Current, Net Assets held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Other current assets (Note 8) Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Restricted cash (Note 8) Restricted Cash, Noncurrent Major construction advances Turbine Advances Amounts advanced to turbine suppliers for the manufacture of wind turbines in accordance with turbine supply agreements for the Company's wind power projects and for which the Company has not taken title. Turbine advances are reclassified to construction in progress when the Company takes legal title to the related turbines and are reclassified to property, plant and equipment when the project achieves commercial operation. Depreciation does not commence until projects enter commercial operation and turbine assets are placed in service. Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 8) Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Unconsolidated investments Equity Method Investments Derivative assets Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Deferred financing costs Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Net deferred tax assets Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Finite-lived intangible assets, net (Note 8) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill Goodwill Other assets (Note 8) Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities (Note 8) Accounts Payable and Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued construction costs (Note 8) Construction Payable, Current Counterparty collateral liability Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Accrued interest (Note 8) Interest Payable, Current 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 Liabilities related to assets held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Other current liabilities (Note 8) Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt, net Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Finite-lived intangible liabilities, net (Note 8) Finite Lived Intangible Liability Net Amount recognized as an intangible liability when the contract price is lower than the estimated fair value. Contingent liabilities (Note 8) Loss Contingency, Accrual, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities (Note 8) Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 17) 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; 98,096,323 and 97,860,048 shares outstanding as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated income (loss) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock, at cost; 178,346 and 157,812 shares of Class A common stock as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Total equity before noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 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 Accounting Policies [Abstract] 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] Assets Held for Sale Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] 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] Transmission Line [Member] Transmission Line [Member] Transmission Line [Member] Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member] Furniture Fixtures And Equipment [Member] Furniture Fixtures And Equipment [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 Equity [Abstract] Dividends Per Share (in dollars per share) Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share Declaration Date Dividends Payable, Date Declared Record Date Dividends Payable, Date of Record Payment Date Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Summary of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Service and Maintenance Agreements [Member] Service and Maintenance Agreements [Member] Service and Maintenance Agreements [Member] Other Commitments [Member] Other Commitments [Member] Other Commitments [Member] Other Commitments [Line Items] Other Commitments [Line Items] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Remainder of 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Other Commitment, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Other Commitment, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Remainder of 2018 Other Commitments, Future Minimum Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Other Commitment, Due in Second Year 2020 Other Commitment, Due in Third Year 2021 Other Commitment, Due in Fourth Year 2022 Other Commitment, Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Other Commitment, Due after Fifth Year Total Other Commitment Remainder of 2018 Contractual Obligation, Future Minimum Payments Due, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2020 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year 2021 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year 2022 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Total Contractual Obligation 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] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] 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] 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] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] 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 (Gain) loss included in other income (expense), net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Balances, end of period Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Projects Accounted under Equity Method of Accounting Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Aggregate Operating Results of Unconsolidated Investments Schedule of Aggregate Operating Results of Unconsolidated Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Aggregate Operating Results of Unconsolidated Investments [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Revenue [Member] Other Revenue [Member] Other Revenue [Member] General and Administrative Expense [Member] General and Administrative Expense [Member] Related Party, General And Administrative Expense [Member] Related Party, General And Administrative Expense [Member] Related Party, General And Administrative Expense [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Management fees Revenue from Related Parties MSA reimbursement Related Party Transaction Reimbursement From Transactions With Related Party Related party transaction reimbursement from transactions with related party MSA costs Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party 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 due to termination of interest rate derivatives, tax impact Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, Tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, 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 gain due to de-designation of interest rate derivatives, tax impact Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, Tax, Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, 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 Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities and Goodwill 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. Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] PEGH 2 Investment [Member] PEGH 2 Investment [Member] PEGH 2 Investment [Member] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Carrying value of unconsolidated investment Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net Equity Method Investments 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] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation Fair Value, Liabilities 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] Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as Hedging Instrument [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] 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 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss due to termination of interest rate swaps Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Trade receivables Prepaid expenses Other current assets Deferred financing costs, net Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Property, plant and equipment, net Deferred financing costs, net Finite-lived intangible assets, net Other assets Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Accrued construction costs Accrued interest Other current liabilities Finite-lived intangible liability, net Contingent liabilities Other long-term liabilities Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] El Arrayan SPA [Member] El Arrayan SPA [Member] El Arrayan SPA [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale [Member] Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets [Abstract] Cash, and cash equivalents Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Restricted Cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Restricted Cash Trade receivables Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts, Notes and Loans Receivable, Net Property, plant and equipment, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment Other assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets Total assets held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets Liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Long-Term Debt Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Long-Term Debt Net deferred tax liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Liabilities Other liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities Total liabilities held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Less noncontrolling interest Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Net assets and liabilities held for sale attributable to Pattern Energy Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Net Assets And Liabilities, Attributable To Parent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Net Assets And Liabilities, Attributable To Parent Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Restricted cash, current Restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments [Member] Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] 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 Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Unconsolidated Investments Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Tsugaru Holdings [Member] Tsugaru Holdings [Member] Tsugaru Holdings [Member] Cash Consideration Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Debt Assumed 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 Contingent Consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Disaggregation of Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table Text Block] 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) Debt Disclosure [Abstract] 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] 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] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative asset Derivative Asset Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative liability Derivative Liability Liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Beginning balance of goodwill Net additions during the period Goodwill, Acquired During Period Foreign currency translation adjustment Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Ending balance of goodwill Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Schedule of Balances of Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Tsugaru Construction Loan [Member] Tsugaru Construction Loan [Member] Tsugaru Construction Loan [Member] Tsugaru Letter Of Credit Facilities [Member] Tsugaru Letter Of Credit Facilities [Member] Tsugaru Letter Of Credit Facilities [Member] Debt Service Reserve Account LC [Member] Debt Service Reserve Account LC [Member] Debt Service Reserve Account LC [Member] O&M Reserve Account LC [Member] O&M Reserve Account LC [Member] O&M Reserve Account LC [Member] Japanese Consumption Tax Facility [Member] Japanese Consumption Tax Facility [Member] Japanese Consumption Tax Facility [Member] Tsugaru Holdings Loan [Member] Tsugaru Holdings Loan [Member] Tsugaru Holdings Loan [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Tokyo Interbank Offered Rate (TIBOR) [Member] Tokyo Interbank Offered Rate (TIBOR) [Member] Tokyo Interbank Offered Rate (TIBOR) [Member] Convertible debt [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Tsugaru Credit Facility [Member] Tsugaru Credit Facility [Member] Tsugaru Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Debt term Debt Instrument, Term Remaining borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Letters of credit issued Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Principal of convertible senior notes Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt term, following conversion Debt Instrument, Term, Following Conversion Debt Instrument, Term, Following Conversion Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Unused capacity, commitment fee percentage Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Commitment fee percentage Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Contractual Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Long-term debt, gross Long-term Debt, Gross Related Party Transactions Receivable and Payable 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] Related Party Transactions Purchase Agreements Related Party Transactions Purchase Agreements [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions Purchase Agreements [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Electricity Sales Under PSA [Member] Electricity Sales Under PSA [Member] Electricity Sales Under PSA [Member] Electricity Sales To Market [Member] Electricity Sales To Market [Member] Electricity Sales To Market [Member] Renewable Energy Credits Sales [Member] Renewable Energy Credits Sales [Member] Renewable Energy Credits Sales [Member] Electricity And REC Sales [Member] Electricity And REC Sales [Member] Electricity And REC Sales [Member] Other Electricity Sales [Member] Other Electricity Sales [Member] Other Electricity Sales [Member] Other Revenue, Related Party [Member] Other Revenue, Related Party [Member] Other Revenue, Related Party [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Total revenue from contracts with customers Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Capital [Member] Capital Units [Member] Accumulated Income (Loss) [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] AOCI Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Acquisitions Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Contributions from noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Distributions to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Other Noncontrolling Interest, Other Adjustments Noncontrolling Interest, Other Adjustments 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 Tax reform, change in tax rate Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Depreciation expense related to property, plant and equipment Depreciation Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Pattern Development 2.0 [Member] Pattern Development 2.0 [Member] Pattern Development 2.0 [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Dividends payable Per Share (in dollars per share) Dividends annualized (in dollars per share) Dividends Payable Amount Per Share Annualized Dividends payable amount per share annualized. Investment in related party Investment in Related Party Investment in Related Party 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, amortization and accretion Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Contingent liability accretion Accretion Expense Impairment loss Asset Impairment Charges Amortization of financing costs Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Amortization of debt discount/premium, net Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Amortization of power purchase agreements, net Fair Value Adjustment, Amortization of Contractual Agreements Fair Value Adjustment, Amortization of Contractual Agreements Loss (gain) on derivatives 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] Counterparty collateral asset 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 collateral 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 Derivatives Increase (Decrease) in Derivative 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 Payment for construction advances/deposits Payments for Deposits Payment for construction in progress Payments for Construction in Process Capital expenditures Payments for Capital Improvements Distributions from unconsolidated investments Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Other assets Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Other assets Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Investment in Pattern Development 2.0 Payments to Acquire Other Investments Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash 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 financing fees 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 long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayment of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Repayment of note payable - related party Repayments of Related Party Debt Repayment of short-term debt Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by 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, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash including cash classified within current assets and liabilities held for sale Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations Add: Net (decrease) in cash classified within current assets and liabilities held for sale Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect 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 Business combination: Business Combination, Provisional Information [Abstract] Assets acquired, net of cash and restricted cash acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Less: Noncontrolling interests Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Net assets acquired, net of cash and restricted cash acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest 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 Accrual of dividends Dividends Payable Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] 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 Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Contingent Liabilities [Member] Contingent Liabilities [Member] Contingent Liabilities [Member] Due from related parties Due from Related Parties Due to related parties Due to Related Parties 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 Schedule Of Description Of Business [Table] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Table] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] 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] Green Power Tsugaru G.K. [Member] Green Power Tsugaru G.K. [Member] Green Power Tsugaru G.K. [Member] Green Power Generation G.K. [Member] Green Power Generation G.K. [Member] Green Power Generation G.K. [Member] GK Green Power Otsuki [Member] GK Green Power Otsuki [Member] GK Green Power Otsuki [Member] GK Green Power Kanagi [Member] GK Green Power Kanagi [Member] GK Green Power Kanagi [Member] GK Green Power Futtsu [Member] GK Green Power Futtsu [Member] GK Green Power Futtsu [Member] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Line Items] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Line Items] Schedule Of Description Of Business [Line Items] Equity method investment, aggregate cost Equity Method Investment, Aggregate Cost 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 Percentage of ownership Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Purchases from related party Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [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] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Industrial revenue bond tax savings [Member] Industrial revenue bond tax savings [Member] Industrial revenue bond tax savings [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Finite lived intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Finite lived intangible liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite Lived Intangible Liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite Lived Intangible Liability Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Leasehold Interest [Member] Leasehold Interest [Member] Leasehold Interest [Member] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross [Abstract] Weighted Average Remaining Life Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Intangible liabilities Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Weighted Average Remaining Life Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Remaining Amortization Period Finite lived intangible liabilities remaining amortization period. Gross Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Gross Finite lived intangible liabilities gross. Accumulated Amortization Finite Lived Intangible Liability Accumulated Amortization Finite lived intangible liability accumulated amortization. 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] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted stock awards Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted stock units Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Convertible senior notes Convertible Debt Securities [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 Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic, Two Class Method [Abstract] Net earnings attributable to controlling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: earnings allocated to participating securities Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Basic Numerator for basic EPS - net income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Add back allocation of earnings to participating securities Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic Add back convertible senior notes interest Interest on Convertible Debt, Net of Tax Reallocation of earnings to participating securities considering potentially dilutive securities Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share Numerator for diluted earnings per share - net income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Denominator for earnings per share: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract] Class A common stock - basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Add dilutive effect (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Class A common stock - diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends declared per Class A common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Pro forma total revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Pro forma total expenses Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Expense Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Expense Pro forma net loss Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Less: pro forma net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss), Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss), Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Pro forma net income attributable to Pattern Energy Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss), Portion Attributable to Parent Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss), Portion Attributable to Parent Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Since Date Of Acquisition [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Since Date Of Acquisition [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Since Date Of Acquisition [Abstract] Total revenue Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Total expenses Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Expenses of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Expenses of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Net income Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Less: net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Actual Net income attributable to Pattern Energy Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Portion Attributable to Parent, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Portion Attributable to Parent, Actual Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue: Revenues [Abstract] Electricity sales Electric Revenue Other revenue Other Revenue, Net Total revenue Revenues Cost of revenue: Cost of Revenue [Abstract] Project expense Cost of Services, Energy Services Transmission costs Cost of Transmission Depreciation, amortization 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 General and Administrative Expense Related party general and administrative Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other expense: Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Gain (loss) on derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Earnings (loss) in unconsolidated investments, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Net loss on transactions Nonoperating Gains (Losses) Other income (expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other expense Nonoperating Income (Expense) Net income (loss) before income tax Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Tax provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net loss Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Net income attributable to Pattern Energy Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Diluted (in shares) Earnings per share attributable to Pattern Energy Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Amortization of basis difference for equity method investment Amortization of basis difference for equity method investment Amortization of basis difference for equity method investment 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] Schedule of Asset Retirement Obligations Schedule of Asset Retirement Obligations [Table Text Block] 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] Unsecured senior notes 2024 [Member] Unsecured senior notes 2024 [Member] Unsecured senior notes 2024 [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] 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] St. Joseph term loan [Member] St Joseph Credit Agreement [Member] St Joseph Credit Agreement [Member] Western Interconnect [Member] Western Interconnect [Member] Western Interconnect [Member] Meikle Wind Energy Limited Partnership [Member] Meikle Wind Energy Limited Partnership [Member] Meikle Wind Energy Limited Partnership [Member] Futtsu [Member] Futtsu Term Loan [Member] Futtsu Term Loan [Member] Ohorayama Term Loan [Member] Ohorayama Term Loan [Member] Ohorayama Term Loan [Member] Hatchet Ridge financing lease obligation [Member] Hatchet Ridge Term Loan [Member] Hatchet Ridge Term Loan [Member] 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 Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets and Liability Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets and Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets and Liability [Table Text Block] Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items] Remaining performance obligation, period Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period Remaining performance obligation Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Broadview [Member] Broadview [Member] Broadview [Member] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] Broadview Holdings' Interest in Broadview [Member] Broadview Holdings' Interest in Broadview [Member] Broadview Holdings' Interest in Broadview [Member] Tsugaru [Member] Tsugaru [Member] Tsugaru [Member] Ohorayama [Member] Ohorayama [Member] Ohorayama [Member] Kanagi [Member] Kanagi [Member] Kanagi [Member] Otsuki [Member] Otsuki [Member] Otsuki [Member] Futtsu [Member] Futtsu [Member] Futtsu [Member] Class B membership interest in Broadview Holdings [Member] Class B membership interest in Broadview Holdings [Member] Class B membership interest in Broadview Holdings [Member] Initial distributable cash flow from Broadview [Member] Initial distributable cash flow from Broadview [Member] Initial distributable cash flow from Broadview [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Aomori Prefecture, Japan [Member] Aomori Prefecture, Japan [Member] Aomori Prefecture, Japan [Member] Kochi Prefecture, Japan [Member] Kochi Prefecture, Japan [Member] Kochi Prefecture, Japan [Member] Shimane Prefecture, Japan [Member] Shimane Prefecture, Japan [Member] Shimane Prefecture, Japan [Member] Chiba Prefecture, Japan [Member] Chiba Prefecture, Japan [Member] Chiba Prefecture, Japan [Member] Broadview Project [Member] Broadview Project [Member] Broadview Project [Member] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Term Conversion Of Tsugaru Construction Loan [Member] Term Conversion Of Tsugaru Construction Loan [Member] Term Conversion Of Tsugaru Construction Loan [Member] Term Conversion Of Ohorayama Construction Loan [Member] Term Conversion Of Ohorayama Construction Loan [Member] Term Conversion Of Ohorayama Construction Loan [Member] Generating capacity Generating Capacity Power generation capacity. Consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Transaction costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Decrease in property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Decrease in construction in progress Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Construction in Progress Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Construction in Progress Percentage of voting interests acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Transmission line length Transmission line length Transmission line length Transmission-level voltage Transmission-level voltage Transmission-level voltage Consideration transferred, liabilities incurred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Corporate-level interest and commitment fees incurred Interest And Commitment Fees Incurred, Corporate Level Interest And Commitment Fees Incurred, Corporate Level Project-level interest and commitment fees incurred Interest And Commitment Fees Incurred, Project Level Interest And Commitment Fees Incurred, Project Level Capitalized interest, commitment fees, and letter of credit fees Capitalized Interest Commitment Fees And Letter Of Credit Fees Capitalized Interest Commitment Fees And Letter Of Credit Fees Amortization of debt discount/premium, net Amortization of financing costs Amortization Of Debt Issuance Costs And Construction In Process Amortization Of Debt Issuance Costs And Construction In Process Other interest Interest Expense, Other Interest expense Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] 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] Meikle [Member] Meikle [Member] Meikle [Member] Designated Derivative Instruments [Member] 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 Assets Held for Sale Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, 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] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items] Aggregate sales price Equity Distribution Agreement Maximum Aggregate Sales Price The maximum amount of aggregate sales under the Equity Distribution Agreement Shares sold (in shares) Shares Sold Under the Equity Distribution Agreement Shares Sold Under the Equity Distribution Agreement Aggregate offering price 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 Beginning asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Net additions during the period Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Foreign currency translation adjustment Asset Retirement Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Reclassification to liabilities held for sale Asset Retirement Obligation, Reclassification To Liabilities Held For Sale Asset Retirement Obligation, Reclassification To Liabilities Held For Sale Accretion expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Ending asset retirement obligations Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] 2018 (remainder) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] 2018 (remainder) Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, After Year Five Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, After Year Five 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 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] 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 Manufacturer [Member] Turbine Manufacturer [Member] Turbine Manufacturer [Member] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Operating Lease, Corporate Headquarters, San Francisco, CA [Member] Operating Lease, Corporate Headquarters, San Francisco, CA [Member] Operating Lease, Corporate Headquarters, San Francisco, CA [Member] 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] Operating lease, expense Operating Lease, Expense Operating leases, future minimum payments due Termination date Termination Date Termination Date Loss contingency accrual Loss Contingency Accrual Contingent liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Contingent liabilities, current Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Contingent Liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Contingent Liability Contingent liabilities, noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Contingent Liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Contingent Liability Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Gain (loss) on derivatives 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 Gain (loss) on derivatives Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Energy Related Derivative [Member] Other Income (Expense) [Member] Other Income (Expense) [Member] Other Income (Expense) [Member] Additional earn-out payment possible Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Additional Payment Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Additional Payment Increase in additional earn-out payment Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Additional Payment, Increase Per Criteria Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Additional Payment, Increase Per Criteria Decrease in additional earn-out payment Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Additional Payment, Decrease Per Criteria Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Additional Payment, Decrease Per Criteria Fair value of contingent consideration at acquisition date Asset, change in unrealized gain (loss) Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Liability, change in unrealized gain (loss) Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Net loss Other comprehensive income (loss): 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 benefit (provision) of $100, ($98), $1,046 and ($59), respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassifications to net loss due to de-designation of interest rate derivatives, net of zero tax impact Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, Net of Tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, Net of Tax Reclassifications to net loss, net of tax impact of $74, $236, $339 and $487, respectively Total change in effective portion of change in fair 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 of ($184), ($1,064), ($475) and ($285), 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 $408, $629, $898 and $1,661, 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 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). Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Foreign currency translation, net of zero tax impact Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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 benefit (provision) of $42, $93, ($108) and $101, respectively Other Comprehensive Income Loss Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Arising During Period Net Of Tax Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income Loss Unrealized Gain Loss on Derivatives Arising During Period Netof Tax Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest. Reclassifications to net gain due to de-designation of interest rate derivatives, net of zero tax impact Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Termination of Derivative, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Reclassifications to net loss, net of tax impact of ($25), $29, $3 and $62, 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 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 attributable to Pattern Energy Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent South Kent [Member] South Kent [Member] South Kent [Member] 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] PEGH2 [Member] PEGH2 [Member] PEGH2 [Member] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Ownership interest Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Ownership Interest Held, Percentage Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Ownership Interest Held, Percentage Distance of facility from Santiago Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Distance Of Facility From Santiago, Chile Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Distance Of Facility From Santiago, Chile Generating capacity Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Generating Capacity Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Generating Capacity Cash consideration Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Impairment loss Discontinued Operation, Provision for Loss (Gain) on Disposal, Net of Tax 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 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] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balances, beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value 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 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] 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] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [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 Beginning balance (in 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 Distributions to noncontrolling interests Other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Ending balance Ending balance (in shares) Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] 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] Energy derivative - fair value Contingent consideration - fair value Annual energy production loss Annual energy production loss Percentage of annual energy production loss due to wake effects and transmission losses Discount rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Deferred purchase price Fair Value Inputs, Deferred Purchase Price Fair Value Inputs, Deferred Purchase Price Forward electricity price Fair Value Inputs, Price Per MWh Fair Value Inputs, Price Per MWh 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 due to de-designation of interest rate swaps Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Identifiable assets acquired: Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Restricted cash, current Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Restricted Cash, Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Restricted Cash, Current Assets Trade receivables Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Prepaid expenses Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Major equipment advances Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Major Equipment Advances Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Major Equipment Advances Restricted cash, noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Restricted Cash Amount of restricted cash acquired at the acquisition date. 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 Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Construction in progress Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Construction In Progress Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Construction In Progress Land Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Land Other noncurrent assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Identifiable liabilities assumed: Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Accrued interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Interest Accrued construction costs Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Construction Cost Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Construction Cost Contingent liabilities, current Current portion of long-term debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt Other current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other Long-term debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Deferred tax liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Asset retirement obligations Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Asset Retirement Obligation Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Asset Retirement Obligation Finite lived intangible liability Derivative liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Derivative Liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Derivative Liability Total consideration before non-controlling interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Less: noncontrolling interests