Condensed Consolidated Statements of Compehensive Loss - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Net loss from continuing operations attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders	$ (5,163)	$ (3,272)	$ (6,587)	$ (5,832)
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	0	(5,579)	0	(7,109)
Net loss	(5,163)	(8,851)	(6,587)	(12,941)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	490	36	(635)	(30)
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	6	(2)	14	(3)
Total other comprehensive gain (loss)	496	34	(621)	(33)
Comprehensive loss	(4,667)	(8,817)	(7,208)	(12,974)
Less: comprehensive loss from discontinued operations attributable to non-controlling interests	0	239	0	356
Comprehensive loss attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders	$ (4,667)	$ (8,578)	$ (7,208)	$ (12,618)