Resolution Of Remaining Chapter 11 Disputed Claims (Changes In The Remaining Net Disputed Claims Liability) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Resolution Of Remaining Chapter Eleven Disputed Claims [Line Items]
Net disputed claims and customer refunds	$ 243	$ 236

Remaining net disputed claims (classified on the Consolidated Balance Sheets within accounts payable - disputed claims and customer refunds)

No definition available.

Name:	pcg_DisputedClaimsLiabilityBalance
Namespace Prefix:	pcg_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant