Consolidated Statements of Compehensive Loss - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss from continuing operations		$ (13,233)	$ (15,611)	$ (14,739)
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	[1]	0	(9,250)	(3,679)
Net loss including non-controlling interest		(13,233)	(24,861)	(18,418)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment		(1,158)	(1,431)	506
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities		(5)	(15)	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)		(1,163)	(1,446)	506
Comprehensive loss		(14,396)	(26,307)	(17,912)
Less: comprehensive loss attributable to non controlling interest		0	(535)	(808)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Echelon Corporation Stockholders		$ (14,396)	$ (25,772)	$ (17,104)

[1] See Note 8 for summary of amounts included representing stock-based compensation expense.