HOVENSA L.L.C. Joint Venture (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Summarized balance sheet
Other current assets	$ 1,554	$ 1,002
Net fixed assets	24,712	21,127	16,627
Other assets	455	471
Current liabilities, including member support	(8,100)	(7,613)
Long-term debt	(6,040)	(5,569)
Deferred liabilities and credits	(1,752)	(1,239)
Equity method [Member]
Summarized balance sheet
Cash and cash equivalents	42	45	78
Other current assets	329	668	580
Net fixed assets	0	1,987	2,080
Other assets	10	27	33
Current liabilities, including member support	(1,858)	(1,001)	(953)
Long-term debt	0	(706)	(356)
Deferred liabilities and credits	(115)	(135)	(137)
Members' equity	(1,592)	885	1,325
Carrying value of Hess Corporation's equity investment	$ 0	$ 158	$ 681