Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 35,053	$ 15,003	$ (22,300)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	(24,977)	(72,929)	(89,297)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, designated as cash flow hedges	(275)	1,086	488
Pension benefit obligation adjustment	(3,468)	6,296	(24,947)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(28,720)	(65,547)	(113,756)
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	6,333	(50,544)	(136,056)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax:	3,283	2,325	1,370
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.	$ 3,050	$ (52,869)	$ (137,426)