Condensed Consolidated Statements of Compehensive Loss (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Net loss from continuing operations attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders	$ (7,226)	$ (3,510)	$ (13,058)	$ (13,202)
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	(2,141)	(269)	(9,250)	(975)
Net loss	(9,367)	(3,779)	(22,308)	(14,177)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(902)	539	(932)	262
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	(1)	9	(4)	9
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(903)	548	(936)	271
Comprehensive loss	(10,270)	(3,231)	(23,244)	(13,906)
Less: comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	179	266	535	590
Comprehensive loss attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders	$ (10,091)	$ (2,965)	$ (22,709)	$ (13,316)