Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entergy Arkansas [Member] Entergy Arkansas [Member] Entergy Arkansas. Entergy Gulf States Louisiana [Member] Entergy Gulf States Louisiana [Member] Entergy Gulf States Louisiana. Entergy Louisiana [Member] Entergy Louisiana [Member] Entergy Louisiana. Entergy Mississippi [Member] Entergy Mississippi [Member] Entergy Mississippi. Entergy New Orleans [Member] Entergy New Orleans [Member] Entergy New Orleans. Entergy Texas [Member] Entergy Texas [Member] Entergy Texas. Parent Company [Member] Parent Company [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset And Liabilities Value Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset And Liabilities Value This element represents an asset and liabilities measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances. Range From Average Percentage for Electricity Options Range From Average Percentage for Electricity Options The range from the average percentage used when calculating the fair value of electricity options classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy Range from Average Percentage for Fair Value of Electricity Swaps Range from Average Percentage for Fair Value of Electricity Swaps The range from the average percentage used when calculating the fair value of electricity swaps classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs on Fair Value of Electricity Swaps Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs on Fair Value of Electricity Swaps The effect of significant unobservable inputs on the fair value of electricity swaps. Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs on Fair Value of Electricity Options Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs on Fair Value of Electricity Options The effect of significant unobservable inputs on the fair value of electricity options. Fair Value of Electricity Options Fair Value of Electricity Options The fair value of electricity options classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. Fair Value of Electricity Swaps Fair Value of Electricity Swaps The fair value of electricity swaps classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset And Liabilities Purchases Sales Issuances Settlements Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset And Liabilities Purchases Sales Issuances Settlements This element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3). Decommissioning Trust Fund [Abstract] Decommissioning Trust Fund. System Energy [Member] System Energy [Member] System Energy. Decommissioning Trust Funds [Abstract] Decommissioning Trust Funds (Textual) [Abstract] Decommissioning Trust Funds. Deferred taxes on unrealized gains/(losses) recorded in OCI for non-regulated decommissioning trusts Available-for-sale Securities, Income Tax Expense on Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Amortized cost of debt securities Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Average coupon rate of debt securities Average Coupon Rate of Debt Securities Percentage Average coupon rate of debt securities percentage. Average duration of debt securities, years Average Duration of Debt Securities in Years Average Duration of Debt Securities in Years Average maturity of debt securities, years Average Maturity of Debt Securities, Years Average Maturity of Debt Securities, Years Proceeds from the dispositions of debt securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Gains from dispositions of debt securities, gross Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Losses from dispositions of debt securities, gross Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Financial Information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] OPERATING REVENUES Electric and Gas Revenue [Abstract] Electric Electric Revenue Natural gas Gas Domestic Regulated Revenue Competitive businesses Competitive Energy Revenue TOTAL Electric and Gas Revenue OPERATING EXPENSES Operating Expenses [Abstract] Operation and Maintenance: Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale Utilities Operating Expense, Fuel Used Purchased power Cost of Purchased Power Nuclear refueling outage expenses Nuclear Refueling Outage Expenses Amortization of costs deferred during nuclear refueling outages over the estimated period to the next outage because these refueling outage expenses are incurred to prepare the units to operate for the next operating cycle without having to be taken off line. Other operation and maintenance Utilities Operating Expense, Maintenance and Operations Asset Write-Offs, Impairments, And Related Charges Asset Write-Offs, Impairments, And Related Charges Asset Write-Offs, Impairments, And Related Charges Decommissioning Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Taxes other than income taxes Taxes, Miscellaneous Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Nonproduction Other regulatory charges (credits) - net Other Regulatory Charges Credits Net Represents the debit or credit to defer certain costs or revenues because they will be recovered or returned to customers in the future. TOTAL Operating Expenses OPERATING INCOME Operating Income (Loss) OTHER INCOME Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Allowance for equity funds used during construction Public Utilities, Allowance for Funds Used During Construction, Capitalized Cost of Equity Interest and investment income Investment Income, Interest and Dividend Miscellaneous - net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) TOTAL Nonoperating Income (Expense) INTEREST EXPENSE Interest Expense [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense, Debt Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction Allowance for Funds Used During Construction, Capitalized Interest TOTAL Interest Expense INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Preferred Unit Holders Noncontrolling Interest in Net Income (Loss) Preferred Unit Holders, Redeemable EARNINGS APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCK Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Earnings per average common share: Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Basic average number of common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted average number of common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility Of Twenty Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Twenty Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Twenty Five Million [Member] Credit Facility of Seventy Five Million [Member] Credit Facility of Seventy Five Million [Member] Credit Facility of Seventy Five Million [Member] Credit Facility of Fifty Million [Member] Credit Facility of Fifty Million [Member] Credit Facility of Fifty Million [Member] Credit Facility of Forty Million [Member] Credit Facility of Forty Million [Member] Credit Facility of Forty Million [Member] Credit Facility of Fifteen Million [Member] Credit Facility of Fifteen Million [Member] Credit Facility of Fifteen Million [Member] Entergy Gulf States [Member] Entergy Gulf States [Member] Entergy Gulf States [Member] Uncommitted Credit Facility Uncommitted Credit Facility Uncommitted Credit Facility Letter of Credit Fee, Percentage Letter of Credit Fee, Percentage Letter of Credit Fee, Percentage Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Non-Qualified Pension Plans [Member] Non Qualified Pension Plans [Member] Non-Qualified pension plans. Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Expected current year pension contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Pension contributions made through Year To Date Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year Remaining estimated pension contributions to be made in current year Defined Benefit Plan Remaining Contributions To Be Made In Current Fiscal Year The remaining contributions to be made in current fiscal year. Net periodic benefit costs Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Settlement loss Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Pension Plans Defined Benefit [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Other Postretirement [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Service cost - benefits earned during the period Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost on projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of prior service cost (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Amortization of loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Net other postretirement benefit cost Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Three Point Two Three Percent Series J Notes Due July Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Three Point Two Three Percent Series J Notes Due July Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Three Point Two Three Percent Series J Notes Due July Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Two Point Six Two Percent Series K Notes Due December Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Two Point Six Two Percent Series K Notes Due December Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Two Point Six Two Percent Series K Notes Due December Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Three Point Six Five Percent Series L Notes Due July Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Three Point Six Five Percent Series L Notes Due July Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Three Point Six Five Percent Series L Notes Due July Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Series Q Due July Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Series Q Due July Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Series Q Due July Two Thousand Seventeen Three Point Three Eight Percent Series R Notes Due August Two Thousand Twenty [Member] Three Point Three Eight Percent Series R Notes Due August Two Thousand Twenty [Member] $70 millions 3.38% Series R Notes Due August 2020 Three Point Three Percent Series F Note Due March Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Three Point Three Percent Series F Note Due March Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Three Point Three Percent Series F Note Due March Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Series G Due July Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Series G Due July Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Series G Due July Two Thousand Seventeen Three Point Nine Two Percent Series H Dues February Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Three Point Nine Two Percent Series H Dues February Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Three Point Nine Two Percent Series H Dues February Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Five Point Three Three Percent Series G Notes Due April Two Thousand Fifteen [Member] Five Point Three Three Percent Series G Notes Due April Two Thousand Fifteen [Member] Five Point Three Three Percent Series G Notes Due April Two Thousand Fifteen [Member] Four Point Zero Two Percent Series H Notes Due February Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] Four Point Zero Two Percent Series H Notes Due February Two Thousand Seventeen [Member] 4.02% Series H notes due February 2017. Three Point Seven Eight Percent Series I Notes Due October Two Thousand Eighteen [Member] Three Point Seven Eight Percent Series I Notes Due October Two Thousand Eighteen [Member] Three Point Seven Eight Percent Series I Notes Due October Two Thousand Eighteen [Member] Entergy Arkansas VIE [Member] Entergy Arkansas Vie [Member] Entergy Arkansas VIE. Entergy Gulf States Louisiana VIE [Member] Entergy Gulf States Louisiana Vie [Member] Entergy Gulf States Louisiana VIE. Entergy Louisiana VIE [Member] Entergy Louisiana Vie [Member] Entergy Louisiana VIE. System Energy VIE [Member] System Energy Vie [Member] System Energy VIE. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Notes payable by variable interest entities Notes Payable, Noncurrent [Abstract] Stated interest rate (percentage) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Amount Notes Payable, Noncurrent Consolidated Debt Ratio Of Capitalization Consolidated Debt Ratio Of Capitalization Consolidated debt ratio of capitalization. Equity [Abstract] Equity Common Equity [Text Block] Common equity. Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Regulatory Assets [Table] Schedule of Regulatory Assets [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Regulatory Assets [Line Items] Regulatory Assets [Line Items] Proceeds From Insurance Settlement, Operating and Investing Activities Proceeds From Insurance Settlement, Operating and Investing Activities Proceeds From Insurance Settlement, Operating and Investing Activities Capital expense related to Baxter Wilson recovery Capital expense related to Baxter Wilson recovery Capital expense related to Baxter Wilson recovery Operation and maintenance expense incurred for Baxter Wilson recovery Operation and maintenance expense incurred for Baxter Wilson recovery Operation and maintenance expense incurred for Baxter Wilson recovery Expected NRC inspection costs excluding remediation and response costs Expected NRC inspection costs excluding remediation and response costs Expected NRC inspection costs excluding remediation and response costs Damages claim filed in demand for arbitration Damages claim filed in demand for arbitration Damages claim filed in demand for arbitration by the United States Enrichment Corporation. Entergy will participate in arbitration proceedings. Summary Of The Borrowings Outstanding And Capacity Available Under The Facility Summary Of Borrowings Outstanding And Capacity Available Under Facility [Table Text Block] Summary of borrowings outstanding and capacity available under facility. Credit Facilities Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Uncommitted Standby Letter of Credit Facilities to Support MISO Obligations [Table Text Block] Uncommitted Standby Letter of Credit Facilities to Support MISO Obligations [Table Text Block] Uncommitted Standby Letter of Credit Facilities to Support MISO Obligations [Table Text Block] Short-Term Borrowings And The Outstanding Short-Term Borrowings Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table Text Block] Issuance Of Commercial Paper To Finance Acquisition And Ownership Of Nuclear Fuel Issuance Of Commercial Paper To Finance Acquisition And Ownership Of Nuclear Fuel [Table Text Block] Issuance of commercial paper to finance acquisition and ownership of nuclear fuel. Notes Payable By Variable Interest Entities Long Term Notes Payable [Table Text Block] Long term notes payable. Book Value And The Fair Value Of Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term borrowings and the outstanding short-term borrowings Short Term Borrowings And The Outstanding Short Term Borrowings Abstract Short-term borrowings and the outstanding short-term borrowings. Authorized Authorized Short Term Borrowings Authorized short-term borrowings. Borrowings Short Term Borrowing Total amount of money pool and external short-term borrowings. Regulated Operations [Abstract] Rate And Regulatory Matters Public Utilities Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Consolidated net income Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities: Consolidated Net Income Adjustments To Reconcile Consolidated Net Income To Net Cash Flow [Abstract] Consolidated Net Income Adjustments To Reconcile Consolidated Net Income To Net Cash Flow. Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning, including nuclear fuel amortization Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Changes in working capital: Changes In Working Capital [Abstract] Changes In Working Capital. Receivables Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Fuel inventory Increase (Decrease) in Fuel Inventories Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Taxes accrued Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Interest accrued Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Deferred fuel costs Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Fuel Costs Other working capital accounts Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Changes in provisions for estimated losses Provision for Other Losses Changes in other regulatory assets Increase (Decrease) in Regulatory Assets and Liabilities Changes in other regulatory liabilities Other regulatory liabilities Other regulatory liabilities. Changes in pensions and other postretirement liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Pension and Postretirement Obligations Other Other Noncash Expense Net cash flow provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Construction/capital expenditures Payments for Capital Improvements Allowance for equity funds used during construction Allowance for Funds Used During Construction, Investing Activities Change in money pool receivable - net Change in money pool receivable - net Change in money pool receivable - net. Nuclear fuel purchases Payments for Nuclear Fuel Proceeds from sale of nuclear fuel Proceeds From Sale Leaseback Of Nuclear Fuel The net cash inflow from any material that is commonly used in the generation of nuclear energy. Proceeds from sale of assets and businesses Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Changes in securitization account Changes In Transition Charge Account Changes in the account in which recoveries from customers through a transition charge are deposited and from which payments are made to service the securitization bonds issued by Entergy Gulf States Reconstruction Funding. NYPA value sharing payment NYPA Value Sharing Payment Payments made under amended value sharing agreements with NYPA. Payments to storm reserve escrow account Payments to Acquire Restricted Investments Receipts from storm reserve escrow account Proceeds from Sale of Restricted Investments Decrease in other investments Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Proceeds from nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales Proceeds from Decommissioning Trust Fund Assets Investment in nuclear decommissioning trust funds Payments to Acquire Investments to be Held in Decommissioning Trust Fund Proceeds from insurance Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities Other Payment For Proceed From Other Investing Activities The net cash outflow (inflow) from other investing activities. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Net cash flow used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from the issuance of: Proceeds From Issuance Of [Abstract] Proceeds From Issuance Of. Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Common stock and treasury stock Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Retirement of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Change in money pool payable - net Change In Money Pool Payable Net Change in money pool payable - net. Changes in credit borrowings and commercial paper - net Changes in credit line borrowings net Changes in credit line borrowings net. Dividends paid: Dividends Paid [Abstract] Dividends Paid. Common stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Preferred stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash flow provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid / (received) during the period for: Cash Paid Received During Period For [Abstract] Cash Paid Received During Period For. Interest - net of amount capitalized Interest Paid, Capitalized Income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Competitive Businesses Operating Revenues [Member] Competitive Businesses Operating Revenues [Member] Competitive businesses operating revenues member. Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Electricity Swaps And Options [Member] Electricity Futures Forwards Swaps And Options [Member] Electricity futures, forwards, swaps and options. Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship Domain Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Effect of Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on consolidated statements of income Effect Of Derivative Instruments Designated As Cash Flow Hedges On Consolidated Statements Of Income Abstract Effect of Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on consolidated statements of income. Amount of gain (loss) recognized in AOCI (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Amount of gain reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items] Employee service share-based compensation, aggregate disclosures Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract] Compensation expense included in Entergy's net income Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Tax benefit recognized in Entergy's net income Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Compensation cost capitalized as part of fixed assets and inventory Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Capitalized Amount Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Gas Hedge Contracts [Member] Gas Hedge Contracts [Member] Gas hedge contracts. Other Non-Current Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Deferred Debits And Other Assets [Member] Other Deferred Debits And Other Assets [Member] Other deferred debits and other assets member. Prepayments And Other [Member] Prepayments And Other [Member] Prepayments and other Member. Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Natural Gas Swaps [Member] Natural Gas Swaps [Member] Natural Gas Swaps [Member] Fixed Transmission Rights (FTRs) [Member] Fixed Transmission Rights (FTRs) [Member] Fixed Transmission Rights (FTRs) [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Utility and Entergy Wholesale Commodities [Member] Utility and Entergy Wholesale Commodities [Member] Utility and Entergy Wholesale Commodities [Member] Utility [Member] Utility [Member] Utility Member. Entergy Wholesale Commodities [Member] Entergy Wholesale Commodities [Member] Entergy Wholesale Commodities. Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Fair values of derivative instruments Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract] Assets: Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative asset as hedging instrument offset Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative Asset Derivative Asset Liabilities: Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract] Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative liability as hedging instrument offset Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative Liability Derivative Liability Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Less than 12 months Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value More than 12 months Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Total Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Public Utility [Axis] Public Utility [Axis] Utility Plant [Domain] Utility Plant [Domain] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Rate And Regulatory Matters (Textual) [Abstract] Rate And Regulatory Matters. Requested capacity to purchase on a life-of-unit basis from Union Power Station Requested capacity to purchase on a life-of-unit basis from Union Power Station Requested capacity to purchase on a life-of-unit basis from Union Power Station Public Utilities Earned Return On Common Equity Public Utilities Earned Return On Common Equity Public utilities earned return on common equity. Net increase in revenues Net increase in revenues Net increase in revenues Rate Increase Rate Increase Rate Increase Deferred Fuel Cost Deferred Fuel Cost Power blocks Power blocks Power blocks Recommended adjustment to earned return on equity Recommended adjustment to earned return on equity Recommended adjustment to earned return on equity Estimated Customer Benefits Anticipated with Business Combination Estimated Customer Benefits Anticipated with Business Combination Estimated Customer Benefits Anticipated with Business Combination Proposed Guaranteed Savings Projected for Business Combination Proposed Guaranteed Savings Projected for Business Combination Proposed Guaranteed Savings Projected for Business Combination Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Credit Facility Of One Hundred And Fifty Million [Member] Credit Facility Of One Hundred And Fifty Million [Member] Credit Facility Of One Hundred And Fifty Million [Member] Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee [Member] Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee [Member] Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee [Member] Commercial Paper Program [Member] Commercial Paper Program [Member] Commercial paper program. Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] Credit facility Amount of Facility Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Issuance of letters of credit, percentage of total borrowing capacity Issuance Of Letters Of Credit Percentage Of Total Borrowing Capacity Issuance Of Letters Of Credit Percentage Of Total Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, commitment fee percentage Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period Debt, weighted average interest rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Consolidated debt ratio Consolidated debt ratio Consolidated debt ratio. Commercial Paper program limit Commercial Paper program limit Commercial Paper program limit Commercial Paper Amount Outstanding Commercial Paper Amount Outstanding Commercial Paper Amount Outstanding Line of credit facility commitment fee as a percentage of undrawn commitment amount Line of credit facility commitment fee as a percentage of undrawn commitment amount Line of credit facility commitment fee as a percentage of undrawn commitment amount Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage Consolidated debt ratio of total capitalization Amount Drawn/ Outstanding Long-term Line of Credit Redemption of debt instrument Redemption of debt instrument Redemption of debt instrument Risk Management And Fair Values Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Foreign Currency Translation [Member] Foreign Currency Translation [Member] Foreign Currency Translation [Member] Net Unrealized Investment Gains [Member] Net Unrealized Investment Gains [Member] Net Unrealized Investment Gains [Member] Pension And Other Postretirement Liabilities [Member] Pension And Other Postretirement Liabilities [Member] Pension And Other Postretirement Liabilities [Member] Cash Flow Hedges Net Unrealized Gain [Member] Cash Flow Hedges Net Unrealized Gain [Member] Cash Flow Hedges Net Unrealized Gain [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Beginning Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Ending Balance Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Restricted Awards [Member] Restricted Awards [Member] Restricted awards. Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] Equity Ownership And Long Term Cash Incentive Plan Two Thousand Eleven [Member] Equity Ownership And Long Term Cash Incentive Plan Two Thousand Eleven [Member] Equity ownership and long term cash incentive plan two thousand eleven. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Stock option granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Stock options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Weighted-average exercise price of stock options outstanding (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Intrinsic value in the money stock options Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award in the money stock options Intrinsic Value Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award in the money stock options intrinsic value. Restricted stock awards granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Long-term incentive plan awards Long Term Incentive Plan Awards Long Term Incentive Plan Awards Restricted stock awards granted value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value LTIP awards granted value (in dollars per share) LTIP awards granted value value of LTIP sotck awards on grant date Vesting period of awards under Entergy's plans, years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Waterford Three [Member] Waterford Three [Member] Waterford Three Member. Grand Gulf [Member] Grand Gulf [Member] Grand Gulf Member. Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entities (Textual) [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities (Textual) [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities. Percentage in power plant owned by VIE Percentage in power plant owned by VIE Percentage of the VIE's voting interest owned by the registrant. In general, a VIE is a corporation, partnership, trust, or any other legal structure used for business purposes that either (a) does not have equity investors with voting rights or (b) has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. A VIE often holds financial assets, including loans or receivables, real estate or other property. A VIE may be essentially passive or it may engage in research and development or other activities on behalf of another company. Payments on lease, including interest Payments on lease including interest Payments on lease, including interest. Fair value of debt securities by contractual maturities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Less than 1 year Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value 1 year - 5 years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value 5 years - 10 years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value 10 years - 15 years Available for Sale Securities Debt Maturities After Ten to Fifteen Years Fair Value Available for sale securities debt maturities after ten to fifteen years fair value. 15 years - 20 years Available for Sale Securities, Debt Maturities After Fifteen to Twenty Years, Fair Value Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities After Fifteen to twenty Years Fair Value. 20 years+ Available for Sale Securities Debt Maturities After Twenty Years Fair Value Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities After Twenty Years Fair Value. Total Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Book Value Long-term Debt, Book Value Long-term Debt, Book Value Capital Lease Obligations Capital Lease Obligations Long term DOE obligations Long term Doe obligations Long term DOE obligations Notes payable to power authority Notes payable to power authority Notes payable to power authority Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Preferred Membership Interest Preferred Stock [Member] Member's Equity [Member] Member S Equity [Member] Member's Equity [Member] Subsidiaries' Preferred Stock [Member] Subsidiaries Preferred Stock [Member] Subsidiaries' Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Capital Stock Expense and Other [Member] Capital Stock Expense And Other [Member] Capital Stock Expense and Other [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Paid In Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Beginning Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss) Common stock issuances related to stock plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Common stock dividends declared Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Preferred dividend requirements of subsidiaries Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Ending Balance Retirement And Other Postretirement Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Cash flow hedges net unrealized gain (loss), tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Pension and other postretirement liabilities, tax expense Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Net unrealized investment gains, tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Foreign currency translation, tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Preferred dividends on subsidiaries' preferred stock Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Period Realized gains (losses) included in earnings Fair Value, Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Realized Gain (Loss) Included In Earnings Fair Value, Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Realized Gain (Loss) Included In Earnings Unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset and Liability Unrealized Gains (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset and Liability Unrealized Gains (Loss) Included in Earnings Unrealized losses included in OCI Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Unrealized gains (losses) included as a regulatory liability/asset Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset And Liability Unrealized Gains Loss Included As Regulatory Asset Liability Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset And Liability Unrealized Gains Loss Included As Regulatory Asset Liability Unrealized gains included as a regulatory liability/asset Purchases Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Purchases Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Purchases Settlements Balance as of March 31, Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Basic and diluted earnings per share Basic earnings per share Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Net income (loss) attributable to Entergy Corporation, Income Net Income Attributable to Entergy Corporation, Shares Net Income Attributable to Entergy Corporation, $/share Average dilutive effect of: Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract] Stock options, Shares Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Stock options $/share Average Dilutive Effect Of Stock Options Per Share Average dilutive effect of stock options per share. Restricted stock, Shares Average Dilutive Effect Of Restricted Stock Shares Average Dilutive Effect Of Restricted Stock Shares Restricted stock $/share Average Dilutive Effect Of Restricted Stock Per Share Average Dilutive Effect Of Restricted Stock Per Share Diluted earnings per share, Shares Diluted earnings per share $/share Net income Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Cash flow hedges net unrealized gain (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Pension and other postretirement liabilities Pension and other postretirement liabilities The after-tax amount of the change in the additional pension liability not yet recognized pursuant to FAS 87 par 37 and 38 as a net periodic pension cost. If the additional pension liability required to be recognized exceeds the unrecognized prior service costs, then the excess (which is the net loss not yet recognized as net periodic pension cost) is to be recorded as a reduction of other comprehensive income, before adjusting for tax effects. If in a subsequent measurement, the amount of minimum liability is eliminated or adjusted, this adjustment is offset against other comprehensive income in Accumulated Comprehensive Income. This line also includes changes in an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in additional pension liability not yet recognized as a net periodic pension cost. Eliminated upon adoption of FAS 158. Net unrealized investment gains Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Total comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Preferred dividend requirements of subsidiaries Comprehensive Income Attributable to Entergy Corporation Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] CURRENT ASSETS Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents: Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Cash Cash Temporary cash investments Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Total cash and cash equivalents Securitization recovery trust account Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounts receivable: Accounts Receivable [Abstract] Accounts Receivable. Customer Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Associated companies Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Other Other Receivables Accrued unbilled revenues Accrued Unbilled Revenues Unbilled amounts due for services rendered or products shipped. This element is distinct from unbilled contracts receivables because this is based on noncontract transactions. Total accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Deferred fuel costs Accumulated deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Fuel inventory - at average cost Fuel Inventory At Average Cost Fossil fuel inventory held for consumption in the production of energy. Materials and supplies - at average cost Other Inventory, Supplies, Gross Deferred nuclear refueling outage costs Deferred Nuclear Refueling Outage Costs Costs deferred during a nuclear refueling outage and amortized over the estimated period to the next outage because these refueling outage expenses are incurred to prepare the units to operate for the next operating cycle without having to be taken off line. Prepaid taxes Prepaid Taxes Prepayments and other Other Assets, Current TOTAL Assets, Current OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Investment in affiliates - at equity Equity Method Investments Decommissioning trust funds Decommissioning Fund Investments Non-utility property - at cost (less accumulated depreciation) Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Escrow accounts Escrow accounts Escrow accounts Other Other Long-term Investments TOTAL Long-term Investments PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Electric Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Property, Plant and Equipment Property under capital lease Capital Leased Assets, Gross Natural gas Natural gas Period end amount of property, plant and equipment (PPE) related to transmission and distribution of natural gas for resale owned by public utility. Construction work in progress Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Construction Work in Progress Nuclear fuel Nuclear Fuel, Net of Amortization TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Plant in Service Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Accumulated Depreciation PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT - NET Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Net DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS Deferred Debits And Other Assets [Abstract] Deferred Debits And Other Assets Abstract. Regulatory assets: Regulatory Asset [Abstract] Regulatory Asset. Regulatory asset for income taxes - net SFAS Regulatory Asset Net SFAS Regulatory Asset Net Other regulatory assets Other Regulatory Assets Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs of regulated entities that are not expected to be recovered through revenue sources within one year or the normal operating cycle if longer and are not specifically broken out elsewhere in the balance sheet. Deferred fuel costs Deferred fuel costs Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized fuel costs of a regulated entity that are not expected to be recovered from customers within one year. Goodwill Goodwill Accumulated deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Long-term receivables - associated companies Due from Related Parties, Noncurrent Other Other Assets, Noncurrent TOTAL Assets, Noncurrent TOTAL ASSETS Assets CURRENT LIABILITIES Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Currently maturing long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt Notes payable and commercial paper Short-term Bank Loans and Notes Payable Associated companies accounts payable Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Other Accounts Payable, Other, Current Customer deposits Customer Deposits, Current Taxes accrued Taxes Payable, Current Accumulated deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Interest accrued Interest Payable, Current Deferred fuel costs Deferred Fuel Costs Current Liabilities Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized fuel costs of a regulated entity that are expected to be returned to customers through rate adjustments within one year. Obligations under capital leases Capital Lease Obligations, Current Pension and other postretirement liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Other Other Liabilities, Current TOTAL Liabilities, Current NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Accumulated deferred investment tax credits Accumulated Deferred Investment Tax Credit Regulatory liability for income taxes - net Regulatory Liability For Income Taxes Net Regulatory liability for income taxes - net. Obligations under capital leases Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Other regulatory liabilities Regulatory Liability, Noncurrent Decommissioning and asset retirement cost liabilities Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Accumulated provisions Accrued Liabilities, Current Pension and other postretirement liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term payables of associated companies Long-term payables of associated companies Long-term payables of associated companies Gas system rebuild insurance proceeds Gas System Rebuild Insurance Proceeds Gas system rebuild insurance proceeds. Other Other Liabilities, Noncurrent TOTAL Liabilities, Noncurrent Subsidiaries' preferred stock without sinking fund Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount, Attributable to Parent EQUITY Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common Shareholders' Equity: Common Shareholders Equity [Abstract] Common Shareholders Equity. Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Less - treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Total common shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Subsidiaries' preferred stock without sinking fund Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Members' Equity Members' Equity TOTAL TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity Decommissioning Trust Funds Decommissioning Trust Fund [Text Block] Describes decommissioning trust assets. May include disclosures such as the purpose of the funds, funding requirements, regulatory authorities and related cost recovery aspects. Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Inputs Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Power Contracts Assets [Member] Power Contracts Assets [Member] Power contracts assets. Storm Reserve Escrow Account [Member] Storm Reserve Escrow Account [Member] Escrow Accounts. Securitization Recovery Trust Account [Member] Securitization Recovery Trust Account [Member] Securitization recovery trust account. Liability Class [Axis] Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value, Liabilities, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Power Contracts Liabilities [Member] Power Contracts Liabilities [Member] Power contracts liabilities. Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets at fair value on a recurring basis Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Temporary cash investments Temporary Cash Investments Fair Value Temporary cash investments fair value. Assets other than temporary cash investments Available-for-sale Securities Liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure on Recurring Basis Total Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Restricted Stock Awards [Member] Restricted Stock Awards [Member] Restricted stock awards. Revolving Credit Facilities, Lines Of Credit, Short-Term Borrowings, And Long-Term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Amortization of prior service cost Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit), Pre Tax The amount of the prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation, pre tax and including amounts capitalized. Amortization of loss Amortization of Gains (Losses), Pre Tax The amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost, pre tax and including amounts capitalized. Settlement loss Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due To Settlements, Pre Tax Amount of net gain (loss) recognized in net periodic benefit cost as a result of an irrevocable action that relieves the employer (or the plan) of primary responsibility for a benefit obligation and eliminates significant risks related to the obligation and the assets used to effect the settlement. Examples of transactions that constitute a settlement include, but are not limited to, lump-sum cash payments to plan participants in exchange for their rights to receive specified benefits and purchasing nonparticipating annuity contracts to cover vested benefits, pre tax and including amounts capitalized Total Pension and Other Postretirement Costs, Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Costs, Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Securities Held Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Fair Value Of Debt Securities By Contractual Maturities Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Issuance of commercial paper to finance the acquisition and ownership of nuclear fuel Issuance Of Commercial Paper To Finance Acquisition And Ownership Of Nuclear Fuel [Abstract] Issuance Of Commercial Paper To Finance Acquisition And Ownership Of Nuclear Fuel. Expiration Date Variable Interest Entities, Expiration Date Variable Interest Entities, Expiration Date Amount of Facility Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Weighted Average Interest Rate on Borrowings Weighted Average Interest Rate on Borrowings Weighted Average Interest Rate on Borrowings. Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Construction expenditures in accounts payable Construction Payable Economic transition payments Securitization property Securitized Regulatory Transition Assets, Noncurrent Securitization bonds Long-term Transition Bond, Noncurrent Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Income tax benefit resulting from 2006-2007 audit Income tax benefit resulting from 2006-2007 audit Income tax benefit resulting from 2006-2007 audit Fuel, Fuel Related Expenses And Gas Purchased For Resale [Member] Fuel Fuel Related Expenses And Gas Purchased For Resale [Member] Fuel fuel related expenses and gas purchased for resale Member. Purchased Power Expense [Member] Purchased Power Expense [Member] Purchased Power Expense[Member] Effect Of Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments On The Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] Effect Of Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments On The Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] Effect Of Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments On The Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] Amount of gain (loss) recognized in AOCI Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments Gain Loss Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Effective Portion Net Derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments gain loss recognized in other comprehensive income effective portion, net. Amount of gain (loss) recorded in income Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Business Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of the borrowings outstanding and capacity available under the facility Summary Of The Borrowings Outstanding And Capacity Available Under The Facility Abstract Summary of the borrowings outstanding and capacity available under the facility. Capacity Borrowings Letters of Credit Letters Of Credit Letters of credit. Capacity Available Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Property, Plant And Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Competitive Energy Revenue Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Amortization of prior-service costs Amortization of loss Realized gain (loss) Income taxes (benefits) Qualified Pension Obligations, Plan Assets, Funded Status, Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet for Entergy Corporation and its Subsidiaries Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Change in Plan Assets Financial Information For Stock Options Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Financial Information For Restricted Stock Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Commitments And Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Values Of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments Designated As Cash Flow Hedges On Consolidated Statements Of Income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments On The Consolidated Statements Of Income Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of changes in the net assets (liabilities) for the fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair value assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis unobservable input reconciliation. Fair Value Inputs Liabilities Quantitative Information Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] All Other [Member] Other Segments [Member] Eliminations [Member] Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Financial Information Segment Financial Information Abstract Segment Financial Information. Operating revenues Revenues Income taxes (benefits) Credit Facility Of Thirty Seven Point Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Thirty Seven Point Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Thirty Seven Point Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Thirty Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Thirty Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Thirty Five Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Two Hundred Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Two Hundred Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Two Hundred Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Twenty Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Twenty Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Twenty Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Ten Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Ten Million [Member] Credit Facility Of Ten Million [Member] Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Interest Rate Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Variable interest entities. Components Of Net Pension Cost Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, amortization Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Amortization [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Amortization [Table Text Block] Expected Employer Contributions Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Equity (Textual) [Abstract] Equity. Stock Options Excluded From Diluted Common Shares Outstanding Calculation Stock Options Excluded From Diluted Common Shares Outstanding Calculation The number of stock options not included in the calculation of diluted common shares outstanding due to their antidilutive effect. Shares, Issued Shares, Issued Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Common stock dividend (in dollars per share) Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information. Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Electricity Swaps And Options And Fixed Transmission Rights [Member] Electricity Swaps And Options And Fixed Transmission Rights [Member] Electricity Swaps And Options And Fixed Transmission Rights [Member] Risk Management and Fair Values [Abstract] Risk Management and Fair Values (Textual) [Abstract] Risk Management and Fair Values. Cash Collateral for Borrowed Securities Cash Collateral for Borrowed Securities Cash collateral posted Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Cash flow hedges relating to power sales as part of net unrealized gains Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedging Instruments Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (OCI) to operating revenues Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Number of Derivative Contract Counterparties in a Liability Position Number of Derivative Contract Counterparties in a Liability Position Number of Derivative Contract Counterparties in a Liability Position Maturity of cash flow hedges, before taxes Maturity of cash flow hedges, Tax Derivative Instruments Gain Loss Reclassified From Accumulated O C I Into Income Effective Portion Tax Derivative Instruments Gain Loss Reclassified From Accumulated OCI Into Income Effective Portion, Tax. Maximum length of time over which Company is currently hedging the variability in future cash flows for forecasted power transactions, years Maximum length of time over which Company is currently hedging the variability in future cash flows for forecasted power transactions Maximum length of time over which Company is currently hedging the variability in future cash flows with derivatives for forecasted power transactions. Planned generation sold forward from non utility nuclear power plants for the remainder of the period Planned generation sold forward from non utility nuclear power plants for the remainder of the period Planned generation sold forward from non utility nuclear power plants for the remainder of the period Planned Generation Sold Forward under financial derivatives Planned Generation From Non Nuclear Power Plants Sold Forward Under Financial Derivatives Planned Generation From Non Nuclear Power Plants Sold Forward Under Financial Hedges Total planned generation for remainder of the period Total planned generation for remainder of the period Total planned generation for remainder of the period Total volume of natural gas swaps outstanding (MMBtu) Volume Of Natural Gas Swaps Outstanding Total volume of natural gas swaps outstanding. Total volume of fixed transmission rights outstanding Volume of Fixed Transmission Rights Outstanding Volume of Fixed Transmission Rights Outstanding Change in cash flow hedges due to ineffectiveness Gain (Loss) on Price Risk Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness Dollar amount of hedge contract in a liability position Hedge Contracts In Liability Position Dollar amount of hedge contract in a liability position.