Cash flow information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest, net*	$ 59,876	$ 63,086
Income taxes paid, net	61,250	43,448
AFUDC borrowed	1,600	2,000
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities	26,120	41,315	$ 54,356
Property, plant and equipment additions in accounts payable	88,355	33,240	26,082
Accrual for holdback payment related to a business combination	$ 0	$ 5,000	$ 2,500