Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 1,144	$ 1,092	$ 1,371
Pension and postretirement benefits other than pensions:
Net loss arising during period, net of income tax benefit of $2, $6 and $5 for 2011, 2010 and 2009 respectively	(3)	(9)	(7)
Amortization of net loss included in net income, net of income tax expense of $2, $2 and $1 for 2011, 2010 and 2009 respectively	4	3	2
Comprehensive income	1,145	1,086	1,366
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	94
Comprehensive income attributable to SCE	$ 1,145	$ 1,086	$ 1,272