Condensed Consolidated Statements of Compehensive Loss - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Net loss from continuing operations attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders	$ (1,047)	$ (7,226)	$ (7,634)	$ (13,058)
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	0	(2,141)	0	(9,250)
Net loss	(1,047)	(9,367)	(7,634)	(22,308)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(177)	(902)	(812)	(932)
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	1	(1)	15	(4)
Total other comprehensive loss	(176)	(903)	(797)	(936)
Comprehensive loss	(1,223)	(10,270)	(8,431)	(23,244)
Less: comprehensive loss from discontinued operations attributable to non-controlling interests	0	179	0	535
Comprehensive loss attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders	$ (1,223)	$ (10,091)	$ (8,431)	$ (22,709)