Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2015
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Inventories [Policy Text Block]	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventories in our Regulated Operations segment are recorded on an average cost basis. Amounts removed from inventories in our Investments and Other segment are recorded on an average cost, first-in, first-out or specific identification basis.
Goodwill [Policy Text Block]	Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price (consideration transferred) over the estimated fair value of net assets of acquired businesses. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized. The Company assesses whether there has been an impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment testing for goodwill is done at the reporting unit level. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s net assets exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The estimated fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.
Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block]	Intangible assets include customer relationships, patents, non-compete agreements and trademarks and trade names. Intangible assets with definite lives consist of customer relationships, patents and non-compete agreements, which are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis with estimated useful lives ranging from less than 1 year to 23 years. We review other definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trademarks and trade names, which are tested for impairment annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment is calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying amount over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.
Subsequent Events [Policy Text Block]	The Company performed an evaluation of subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through the time of the financial statements issuance.
New Accounting Standards [Policy Text Block]	Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. In April 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update modifying the criteria for determining which disposals should be presented as discontinued operations and modifying the related disclosure requirements. Additionally, the new guidance requires that a business which qualifies as held for sale upon acquisition should be reported as discontinued operations. The new guidance is effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015, and applies prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale. This guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Revenue from Contracts with Customers. In May 2014, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires expanded disclosures relating to the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required regarding customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. This accounting guidance was to have been effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2017 using one of two prescribed retrospective methods. Early adoption is not permitted for public companies. On April 1, 2015, the FASB voted to propose a deferral of the effective date of the standard by one year which would make the guidance effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2018. The FASB is expected to issue updated accounting guidance regarding the deferred effective date, subject to a 30-day comment period, in the second quarter of 2015. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. In April 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance addressing the presentation requirements for debt issuance costs. Under the revised guidance, all costs incurred to issue debt are to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. The revised guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We are evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard.
Land Inventory [Policy Text Block]	Land inventory is accounted for as held for use and is recorded at cost, unless the carrying value is determined not to be recoverable in accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment, in which case the land inventory is written down to fair value. Land values are reviewed for indicators of impairment on a quarterly basis and no impairments were recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2015 (none for the year ended December 31, 2014).
Long-Term Finance Receivables [Policy Text Block]	Long-term finance receivables are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.
Acquisition [Policy Text Block]	The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. In connection with finalizing purchase price accounting, the Company recorded minor adjustments during the first quarter of 2015 to certain assets and liabilities, which are reflected in the table below. The result of these adjustments had no impact on the results of operations for the period ended March 31, 2015. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. The allocation of the purchase price is subject to judgment and the preliminary estimated fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed may be adjusted when the valuation analysis is completed in subsequent periods. Preliminary estimates subject to adjustment in subsequent periods relate primarily to customer relationships, developed technologies, trademarks and trade names, and current and deferred income taxes; subsequent adjustments could impact the amount of goodwill recorded. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the replacement cost method
Derivatives [Policy Text Block]	Changes in the fair value of the Swap were recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Cash flows from the Swap are presented in the same category as the hedged item on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Amounts recorded in Other Comprehensive Income related to the Swap will be recorded in earnings when the hedged transaction occurs or when it is probable it will not occur. Gains or losses on the interest rate hedging transaction are reflected as a component of Interest Expense on the Consolidated Statement of Income.
Fair Value Measurement [Policy Text Block]	Non-financial assets such as equity method investments, goodwill, intangible assets, and property, plant and equipment are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment and recorded at fair value only when an impairment is recognized. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). We utilize market data or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated or generally unobservable. We primarily apply the market approach for recurring fair value measurements and endeavor to utilize the best available information. Accordingly, we utilize valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. These inputs, which are used to measure fair value, are prioritized through the fair value hierarchy. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Descriptions of the three levels of the fair value hierarchy are discussed in Note 10. Fair Value to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our 2014 Form 10-K. The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014. Each asset and liability is classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, which may affect the valuation of these assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. The estimated fair value of Cash and Cash Equivalents listed on the Consolidated Balance Sheet approximates the carrying amount and therefore is excluded from the recurring fair value measures in the tables below.
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Policy Text Block]	Our regulated utility operations are subject to accounting guidance for the effect of certain types of regulation. Regulatory assets represent incurred costs that have been deferred as they are probable for recovery in customer rates. Regulatory liabilities represent obligations to make refunds to customers and amounts collected in rates for which the related costs have not yet been incurred. The Company assesses quarterly whether regulatory assets and liabilities meet the criteria for probability of future recovery or deferral. No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return. The recovery, refund or credit to rates for these regulatory assets and liabilities will occur over the periods either specified by the applicable regulatory authority or over the corresponding period related to the asset or liability.
Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block]	We account for our investment in ATC under the equity method of accounting.
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We compute basic earnings per share using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. The difference between basic and diluted earnings per share, if any, arises from outstanding stock options, non-vested restricted stock units, performance share awards granted under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan and common shares under the forward sale agreement
Environmental Costs [Policy Text Block]	We review environmental matters on a quarterly basis. Accruals for environmental matters are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, based on current law and existing technologies. Accruals are adjusted as assessment and remediation efforts progress or as additional technical or legal information becomes available. Accruals for environmental liabilities are included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at undiscounted amounts and exclude claims for recoveries from insurance or other third parties. Costs related to environmental contamination treatment and cleanup are charged to expense unless recoverable in rates from customers.

Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2015

Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventories in our Regulated Operations segment are recorded on an average cost basis. Amounts removed from inventories in our Investments and Other segment are recorded on an average cost, first-in, first-out or specific identification basis.

Goodwill [Policy Text Block]

Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price (consideration transferred) over the estimated fair value of net assets of acquired businesses. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized. The Company assesses whether there has been an impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment testing for goodwill is done at the reporting unit level. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s net assets exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The estimated fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.

Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block]

Intangible assets include customer relationships, patents, non-compete agreements and trademarks and trade names. Intangible assets with definite lives consist of customer relationships, patents and non-compete agreements, which are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis with estimated useful lives ranging from less than 1 year to 23 years. We review other definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trademarks and trade names, which are tested for impairment annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment is calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying amount over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.

Subsequent Events [Policy Text Block]

The Company performed an evaluation of subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through the time of the financial statements issuance.

New Accounting Standards [Policy Text Block]

Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. In April 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update modifying the criteria for determining which disposals should be presented as discontinued operations and modifying the related disclosure requirements. Additionally, the new guidance requires that a business which qualifies as held for sale upon acquisition should be reported as discontinued operations. The new guidance is effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015, and applies prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale. This guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Revenue from Contracts with Customers. In May 2014, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires expanded disclosures relating to the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required regarding customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. This accounting guidance was to have been effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2017 using one of two prescribed retrospective methods. Early adoption is not permitted for public companies. On April 1, 2015, the FASB voted to propose a deferral of the effective date of the standard by one year which would make the guidance effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2018. The FASB is expected to issue updated accounting guidance regarding the deferred effective date, subject to a 30-day comment period, in the second quarter of 2015. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. In April 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance addressing the presentation requirements for debt issuance costs. Under the revised guidance, all costs incurred to issue debt are to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. The revised guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We are evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard.

Land Inventory [Policy Text Block]

Land inventory is accounted for as held for use and is recorded at cost, unless the carrying value is determined not to be recoverable in accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment, in which case the land inventory is written down to fair value. Land values are reviewed for indicators of impairment on a quarterly basis and no impairments were recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2015 (none for the year ended December 31, 2014).

Long-Term Finance Receivables [Policy Text Block]

Long-term finance receivables are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.

Acquisition [Policy Text Block]

The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. In connection with finalizing purchase price accounting, the Company recorded minor adjustments during the first quarter of 2015 to certain assets and liabilities, which are reflected in the table below. The result of these adjustments had no impact on the results of operations for the period ended March 31, 2015. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method.

The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. The allocation of the purchase price is subject to judgment and the preliminary estimated fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed may be adjusted when the valuation analysis is completed in subsequent periods. Preliminary estimates subject to adjustment in subsequent periods relate primarily to customer relationships, developed technologies, trademarks and trade names, and current and deferred income taxes; subsequent adjustments could impact the amount of goodwill recorded. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method.

The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the replacement cost method

Derivatives [Policy Text Block]

Changes in the fair value of the Swap were recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Cash flows from the Swap are presented in the same category as the hedged item on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Amounts recorded in Other Comprehensive Income related to the Swap will be recorded in earnings when the hedged transaction occurs or when it is probable it will not occur. Gains or losses on the interest rate hedging transaction are reflected as a component of Interest Expense on the Consolidated Statement of Income.

Fair Value Measurement [Policy Text Block]

Non-financial assets such as equity method investments, goodwill, intangible assets, and property, plant and equipment are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment and recorded at fair value only when an impairment is recognized.

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). We utilize market data or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated or generally unobservable. We primarily apply the market approach for recurring fair value measurements and endeavor to utilize the best available information. Accordingly, we utilize valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. These inputs, which are used to measure fair value, are prioritized through the fair value hierarchy. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Descriptions of the three levels of the fair value hierarchy are discussed in Note 10. Fair Value to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our 2014 Form 10-K.

The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014. Each asset and liability is classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, which may affect the valuation of these assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. The estimated fair value of Cash and Cash Equivalents listed on the Consolidated Balance Sheet approximates the carrying amount and therefore is excluded from the recurring fair value measures in the tables below.

Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Policy Text Block]

Our regulated utility operations are subject to accounting guidance for the effect of certain types of regulation. Regulatory assets represent incurred costs that have been deferred as they are probable for recovery in customer rates. Regulatory liabilities represent obligations to make refunds to customers and amounts collected in rates for which the related costs have not yet been incurred. The Company assesses quarterly whether regulatory assets and liabilities meet the criteria for probability of future recovery or deferral. No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return. The recovery, refund or credit to rates for these regulatory assets and liabilities will occur over the periods either specified by the applicable regulatory authority or over the corresponding period related to the asset or liability.

Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block]

We account for our investment in ATC under the equity method of accounting.

Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]

We compute basic earnings per share using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. The difference between basic and diluted earnings per share, if any, arises from outstanding stock options, non-vested restricted stock units, performance share awards granted under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan and common shares under the forward sale agreement

Environmental Costs [Policy Text Block]

We review environmental matters on a quarterly basis. Accruals for environmental matters are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, based on current law and existing technologies. Accruals are adjusted as assessment and remediation efforts progress or as additional technical or legal information becomes available. Accruals for environmental liabilities are included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at undiscounted amounts and exclude claims for recoveries from insurance or other third parties. Costs related to environmental contamination treatment and cleanup are charged to expense unless recoverable in rates from customers.