Introduction - Schedule of Amortization of Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2023	Jun. 30, 2022	Jun. 30, 2023	Jun. 30, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$ 9	$ 9	$ 18	$ 19
Decrease in operating revenues	5	10	5	10
SOUTHERN POWER CO
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	5	5	10	10
SOUTHERN Co GAS
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$ 2	$ 2	$ 5	$ 5