Condensed Consolidated Statements of Compehensive Loss (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (8,852)	$ (1,003)	$ (12,942)	$ (10,398)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	36	169	(30)	(277)
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	(2)	0	(3)	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	34	169	(33)	(277)
Comprehensive loss	(8,818)	(834)	(12,975)	(10,675)
Less: comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	239	176	356	324
Comprehensive loss attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders	$ (8,579)	$ (658)	$ (12,619)	$ (10,351)