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Document And Entity Information (USD $)
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12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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Dec. 31, 2011
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Feb. 01, 2012
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Jun. 30, 2011
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| Document Information [Line Items] | |||
| Entity Registrant Name | ALLETE INC | ||
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000066756 | ||
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | ||
| Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | Yes | ||
| Entity Voluntary Filers | No | ||
| Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | ||
| Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | ||
| Entity Public Float | $ 1,488,071,330 | ||
| Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 37,537,154 | ||
| Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2011 | ||
| Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | ||
| Document Type | 10-K | ||
| Amendment Flag | false | ||
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2011 |
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- Definition
If the value is true, then the document as an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
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- Definition
End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal period of the document report. For a first quarter 2006 quarterly report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, the first fiscal quarter should be given as the fiscal period focus. Values: FY, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, H1, H2, M9, T1, T2, T3, M8, CY. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal year of the document report in CCYY format. For a 2006 annual report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, fiscal 2006 should be given as the fiscal year focus. Example: 2006. No definition available.
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- Details
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- Definition
The end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements containing historical data, it is the date up through which that historical data is presented. If there is no historical data in the report, use the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
The type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, N-1A, etc). The document type is limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type, minus any "/A" suffix. The acceptable values are as follows: S-1, S-3, S-4, S-11, F-1, F-3, F-4, F-9, F-10, 6-K, 8-K, 10, 10-K, 10-Q, 20-F, 40-F, N-1A, 485BPOS, 497, NCSR, N-CSR, N-CSRS, N-Q, 10-KT, 10-QT, 20-FT, POS AM and Other. No definition available.
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- Definition
A unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate number of shares outstanding of each of registrant's classes of common stock, as of latest practicable date. Where multiple classes exist define each class by adding class of stock items such as Common Class A [Member], Common Class B [Member] onto the Instrument [Domain] of the Entity Listings, Instrument No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" whether registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate whether the registrant is one of the following: (1) Large Accelerated Filer, (2) Accelerated Filer, (3) Non-accelerated Filer, or (4) Smaller Reporting Company. Definitions of these categories are stated in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
State aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to price at which the common equity was last sold, or average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. The public float should be reported on the cover page of the registrants form 10K. No definition available.
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- Definition
The exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Is used on Form Type: 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, 20-F, 6-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q/A, 20-F/A, 6-K/A, N-CSR, N-Q, N-1A. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet to indicate that the entity has entered into (1) purchase or supply arrangements that will require expending a portion of its resources to meet the terms thereof, and (2) is exposed to potential losses or, less frequently, gains, arising from (a) possible claims against a company's resources due to future performance under contract terms, and (b) possible losses or likely gains from uncertainties that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events that are deemed likely to occur do occur or fail to occur. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable common stock (or common stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable common shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Represents the noncurrent portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A noncurrent taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of a noncurrent asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In a classified statement of financial position, an enterprise separates deferred tax liabilities and assets into a current amount and a noncurrent amount. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee. This is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of [accrued] interest payable on all forms of debt, including trade payables, that has been incurred and is unpaid. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities that are recognized. Liabilities are probable future sacrifices of economic benefits arising from present obligations of an entity to transfer assets or provide services to other entities in the future. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of all Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity items (or Partners' Capital, as applicable), including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of the portions of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of long-term debt, which may include notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans, and commercial paper, which are scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all long-term debt, which is debt initially having maturities due after one year from the balance sheet date or beyond the operating cycle, if longer, but excluding the portions thereof scheduled to be repaid within one year (current maturities) or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The total amount of investments that are intended to be held for an extended period of time (longer than one operating cycle). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which is directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of the portions of long-term notes payable due within one year or the operating cycle if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered and of liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This represents the noncurrent liability for underfunded plans recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement defined benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tangible assets that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes and that are expected to provide economic benefit for more than one year; net of accumulated depreciation. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs of regulated entities that are not expected to be recovered through revenue sources within one year or the normal operating cycle if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The amount for the individual regulatory noncurrent liability as itemized in a table of regulatory noncurrent liabilities as of the end of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The cumulative amount of the reporting entity's undistributed earnings or deficit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Investments which are intended to be sold in the short term (usually less than one year or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) including trading securities, available-for-sale securities, held-to-maturity securities, and other short-term investments not otherwise listed in the existing taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of Stockholders' Equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for statutory income, sales, use, payroll, excise, real, property and other taxes. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Fair value of unearned shares for all classes of common stock and nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) held by an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Includes the sale of shares or the issuance treasury shares to an ESOP. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
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Dec. 31, 2010
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|---|---|---|
| Accounts Receivable, Allowance | ||
| Accounts Receivable, Allowance | $ 0.9 | $ 0.9 |
| Common Stock | ||
| Common Stock, Par Value | $ 0 | $ 0 |
| Common Stock, Shares Authorized | 80.0 | 80.0 |
| Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 37.5 | 35.8 |
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- Details
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- Definition
A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Face amount or stated value of common stock per share; generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury and other adjustments, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate dividends declared during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Cost of electricity sold during the reporting period, operations of which is regulated by a federal or state agency. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of refund payments made to customers during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The sum of the current income tax expense or benefit and the deferred income tax expense or benefit pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The portion of net Income or Loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest (if any) deducted in order to derive the portion attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The aggregate amount of income or expense from ancillary business-related activities (that is to say, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The total amount of operating revenues recognized during the period. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Discloses the total amount of all operating expenses for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Discloses the amount of operating expense for the period related to depreciation and amortization. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Discloses the amount of operating expense for the period for routine plant maintenance, repairs and operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Gain On Real Estate Foreclosure No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net change during the reporting period in other current operating liabilities not otherwise defined in the taxonomy No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Cash out for additional investment in subsidiary No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The charge against earnings resulting from the aggregate write down of all assets from their carrying value to their fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in cash and cash equivalents. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Represents the charge against earnings during the period for commitment fees and debt issuance expenses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The component of income tax expense for the period representing the increase (decrease) in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of expense recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the cost of tangible assets over the assets' useful lives. Includes production and non-production related depreciation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of plan compensation cost recognized during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The gains (losses) included in results of operations resulting from the sale or disposal of other assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This element represents the undistributed income (or loss) of equity method investments, net of dividends or other distributions received from unconsolidated subsidiaries, certain corporate joint ventures, and certain noncontrolled corporations; such investments are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. This element excludes distributions that constitute a return of investment, which are classified as investing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amount due from customers for the credit sale of goods and services; includes accounts receivable and other types of receivables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate value of all inventory held by the reporting entity, associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other assets used in operating activities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. May include changes in other current assets, other noncurrent assets, or a combination of other current and noncurrent assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other liabilities used in operating activities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. May include changes in other current liabilities, other noncurrent liabilities, or a combination of other current and noncurrent liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amount due to fund pension and non-pension benefits to employees, retired and disabled former employees. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the value of prepaid expenses and other assets not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows, for example, deferred expenses, intangible assets,or income taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from financing activity for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from investing activity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net cash from (used in) all of the entity's operating activities, including those of discontinued operations, of the reporting entity. Operating activities generally involve producing and delivering goods and providing services. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value that are not defined as investing or financing activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net cash outflow or inflow from other investing activities. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow paid to third parties in connection with debt origination, which will be amortized over the remaining maturity period of the associated long-term debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow from the distribution of an entity's earnings in the form of dividends to common shareholders. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow to acquire debt and equity securities not classified as either held-to-maturity securities or trading securities which would be classified as available-for-sale securities and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported in a separate component of shareholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale; includes cash outflows to pay for construction of self-constructed assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of pension and other (such as medical, dental and life insurance) postretirement benefit costs recognized during the period for (1) defined benefit plans (periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss) on assets, prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments) and for (2) defined contribution plans (to the extent that a plan's defined contributions to an individual's account are to be made for periods in which that individual renders services, the net cost for a period is the contribution called for in that period; if a plan calls for contributions for periods after an individual retires or terminates, the estimated cost is accrued during the employee's service period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash inflow from a debt initially having maturity due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from a long-term borrowing supported by a written promise to pay an obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash inflow associated with the sale of debt and equity securities classified as available-for-sale securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash inflow from the sale of property, plant and equipment (capital expenditures), software, and other intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of the current period expense charged against operations, the offset which is generally to the allowance for doubtful accounts for the purpose of reducing receivables, including notes receivable, to an amount that approximates their net realizable value (the amount expected to be collected). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The component of the allowance for funds used during construction during the period based on an assumed rate of return on equity funds used in financing the construction of regulated assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow for debt initially having maturity due after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the reporting entity. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, but excludes any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the economic entity, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Equity impact of aggregate cash, stock, and paid-in-kind dividends declared for common shareholders during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The portion of net Income or Loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest (if any) deducted in order to derive the portion attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) in accumulated comprehensive income during the period related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans, after tax. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Appreciation or loss in value (before reclassification adjustment) of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on, net of tax. Reclassification adjustments include: (1) the unrealized holding gain (loss), net of tax, at the date of the transfer for a debt security from the held-to-maturity category transferred into the available-for-sale category. Also includes the unrealized gain (loss) at the date of transfer for a debt security from the available-for-sale category transferred into the held-to-maturity category; (2) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the sale of securities, after tax; and (3) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate value of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Equity impact of the value of new stock issued during the period. Includes shares issued in an initial public offering or a secondary public offering. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Operations and Significant Accounting Policies
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] | Operations and Significant Accounting Policies Financial Statement Preparation. References in this report to “we,” “us,” and “our” are to ALLETE and its subsidiaries, collectively. We prepare our financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These principles require management to make informed judgments, best estimates, and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Subsequent Events. The Company performed an evaluation of subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through the time of the financial statements issuance. Principles of Consolidation. Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of ALLETE and all of our majority-owned subsidiary companies. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Business Segments. Our Regulated Operations and Investments and Other segments were determined in accordance with the guidance on segment reporting. Segmentation is based on the manner in which we operate, assess, and allocate resources to the business. We measure performance of our operations through budgeting and monitoring of contributions to consolidated net income by each business segment. Regulated Operations includes our regulated utilities, Minnesota Power and SWL&P, as well as our investment in ATC, a Wisconsin-based utility that owns and maintains electric transmission assets in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois. Minnesota Power provides regulated utility electric service in northeastern Minnesota to approximately 144,000 retail customers. Minnesota Power's non-affiliated municipal customers consists of 16 municipalities in Minnesota and 1 private utility in Wisconsin. SWL&P, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ALLETE, is also a private utility in Wisconsin and a customer of Minnesota Power. SWL&P provides regulated electric, natural gas and water service in northwestern Wisconsin to approximately 15,000 electric customers, 12,000 natural gas customers and 10,000 water customers. Our regulated utility operations include retail and wholesale activities under the jurisdiction of state and federal regulatory authorities. Investments and Other is comprised primarily of BNI Coal, our coal mining operations in North Dakota, ALLETE Properties, our Florida real estate investment, and ALLETE Clean Energy, formed in June 2011, aimed at developing or acquiring capital projects that create energy solutions via wind, solar, biomass, hydro, natural gas/liquids, shale resources, clean coal and other clean energy innovations. This segment also includes a small amount of non-rate base generation, land available-for-sale in Minnesota, and earnings on cash and investments. BNI Coal, a wholly-owned subsidiary, mines and sells lignite coal to two North Dakota mine-mouth generating units, one of which is Square Butte. In 2011, Square Butte supplied 50 percent (227.5 MW) of its output to Minnesota Power under a long-term contract. (See Note 11. Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies.) Coal sales are recognized when delivered at the cost of production plus a specified profit per ton of coal delivered. ALLETE Properties represents our Florida real estate investment. Our current strategy for the assets is to complete and maintain key entitlements and infrastructure improvements without requiring significant additional investment, and sell the portfolio over time or in bulk transactions. ALLETE intends to sell its Florida land assets when opportunities arise and reinvest the proceeds in its growth initiatives. ALLETE does not intend to acquire additional Florida real estate. Full profit recognition is recorded on sales upon closing, provided that cash collections are at least 20 percent of the contract price and the other requirements under the guidance for sales of real estate are met. In certain cases, where there are obligations to perform significant development activities after the date of sale, we recognize profit on a percentage-of-completion basis. From time to time, certain contracts with customers allow us to receive participation revenue from land sales to third parties if various formula-based criteria are achieved. In certain cases, we pay fees or construct improvements to mitigate offsite traffic impacts. In return, we receive traffic impact fee credits as a result of some of these expenditures. We recognize revenue from the sale of traffic impact fee credits when payment is received. ALLETE Clean Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of ALLETE, operates independently of Minnesota Power to develop or acquire capital projects aimed at creating energy solutions via wind, solar, biomass, hydro, natural gas/liquids, shale resources, clean coal and other clean energy innovations. ALLETE Clean Energy intends to market to electric utilities, cooperatives, municipalities, independent power marketers and large end-users across North America through long-term PPAs, and will be subject to applicable state and federal regulatory approvals. Land inventories are accounted for in accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment, and are included in Other Investments on our consolidated balance sheet. Real estate costs include the cost of land acquired, subsequent development costs and costs of improvements, capitalized development period interest, real estate taxes and payroll costs of certain employees devoted directly to the development effort. These real estate costs incurred are capitalized to the cost of real estate parcels based upon the relative sales value of parcels within each development project in accordance with the accounting standards for real estate. The cost of real estate sold includes the actual costs incurred and the estimate of future completion costs allocated to the real estate sold based upon the relative sales value method. Whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the real estate may not be recoverable, impairments are recorded and the related assets are adjusted to their estimated fair value. (See Note 7. Investments.) Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries. In August 2011, ALLETE purchased the remaining shares of the ALLETE Properties non-controlling interest at book value for $8.8 million by issuing 0.2 million shares of ALLETE common stock. This was accounted for as an equity transaction, and no gain or loss was recognized in net income or comprehensive income. Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all investments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Supplemental Statement of Cash Flow Information
Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable are reported on the balance sheet net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance is based on our evaluation of the receivable portfolio under current conditions, overall portfolio quality, review of specific problems and such other factors that, in our judgment, deserve recognition in estimating losses.
Concentration of Credit Risk. Financial instruments that subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of accounts receivable. Minnesota Power sells electricity to 10 Large Power Customers. Receivables from these customers totaled $9.3 million at December 31, 2011 ($17.3 million at December 31, 2010). Minnesota Power does not obtain collateral to support utility receivables, but monitors the credit standing of major customers. In addition, our taconite-producing Large Power Customers, which are a part of our Regulated Operations segment, are on a weekly billing cycle, which allows us to closely manage collection of amounts due. One of these customers accounted for 12.8 percent of consolidated revenue in 2011 (12.5 percent in 2010; 8.0 percent in 2009). In the third quarter of 2011, one of Minnesota Power's Large Power Customers, NewPage Corporation, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Minnesota Power had a pre-bankruptcy petition receivable of $3.2 million as of December 31, 2011. Based on our assessment of the facts and circumstances existing as of December 31, 2011, we have determined that it is not probable that the pre-petition receivable has been impaired at this time. We will continue to assess for impairment as the bankruptcy proceeds and as facts and circumstances change. The Duluth mill operations have continued without interruption and we continue to provide electric and steam service to this customer. We have received payment of scheduled post-petition receivable balances and we expect continued payment of all other post-petition receivables. Long-Term Finance Receivables. Long-term finance receivables relating to our real estate operations are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. We assess delinquent finance receivables by comparing the balance of such receivables to the estimated fair value of the collateralized property. If the fair value of the property is less than the finance receivable, we record a reserve for the difference. We estimate fair value based on recent property tax assessed values or current appraisals. (See Note 7. Investments.) Available-for-Sale Securities. Available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. Unrealized losses that are other than temporary are recognized in earnings. We use the specific identification method as the basis for determining the cost of securities sold. Our policy is to review available-for-sale securities for other than temporary impairment on a quarterly basis by assessing such factors as the share price trends and the impact of overall market conditions. (See Note 7. Investments.) Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventory are recorded on an average cost basis.
Property, Plant and Equipment. Property, plant and equipment are recorded at original cost and are reported on the balance sheet net of accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for additions, significant replacements, improvements and major plant overhauls are capitalized; maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. Gains or losses on non-rate base property, plant and equipment are recognized when they are retired or otherwise disposed. When regulated utility property, plant and equipment are retired or otherwise disposed, no gain or loss is recognized in accordance with the accounting standards for Regulated Operations. Our Regulated Operations capitalize AFUDC, which includes both an interest and equity component. AFUDC represents the cost of both debt and equity funds used to finance utility plant additions during construction periods. AFUDC amounts capitalized are included in rate base and are recovered from customers as the related property is depreciated. The MPUC has approved current cost recovery for several large capital projects recently, resulting in lower recognition of AFUDC. (See Note 3. Property, Plant and Equipment.) Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. We review our long-lived assets for indicators of impairment in accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment on a quarterly basis. Long-lived assets that we evaluate include our real estate assets of ALLETE Properties. In accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment, if indicators of impairment exist, we test our real estate assets for recoverability by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to the undiscounted future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. Cash flows are assessed at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows, which may be by each land parcel, combining various parcels into bulk sales, or other combinations thereof. Our consideration of possible impairment for our real estate assets requires us to make estimates of future cash flows on an undiscounted basis. The undiscounted future net cash flows are impacted by trends and factors known to us at the time they are calculated and our expectations related to: management's best estimate of future sales prices; holding period and timing of sales; method of disposition; and future expenditures necessary to develop and maintain the operations, including community development district assessments, property taxes and normal operation and maintenance costs. These estimates and expectations are specific to each land parcel or various bulk sales, and may vary among each land parcel or bulk sale. If the excess of undiscounted cash flows over the carrying value of a property is small, there is a greater risk of future impairment in the event of such changes and any resulting impairment charges could be material. The poor market conditions for real estate in Florida have required us to review our land inventories for impairment. Our undiscounted cash flow analysis was estimated using management's current intent for disposition of each property, which is an estimated selling period of five to ten years based on a December 2011 asset management and disposition plan. Future selling prices have been estimated through management's best estimate of future sales prices in collaboration and consultation with outside advisors, and based on the best use of the properties over the expected period of sale. The undiscounted cash flow analysis assumes two scenarios: retail land sales followed by project bulk sales over a five year period and retail land sales over a ten year period. Our analysis assumes the most likely case of retail land sales followed by project bulk sales over a five year period; however, under both scenarios, except as noted below, the undiscounted cash flows exceeded carrying values. If our major development projects are sold in one bulk sale or if the properties are sold differently than our December 2011 plan, the actual results could be materially different from our undiscounted cash flow analysis. The results of the impairment analysis are particularly dependent on the estimated future sales prices, method of disposition, and holding period for each property. The estimated holding period is based on management's current intent for the use and disposition of each property, which could be subject to change in future periods if the intentions of the Company as set by management and approved by the Board of Directors were to change. In the event that projected future undiscounted cash flows are not adequate to recover the carrying value of an asset, impairment is indicated and may require a write down to the asset's fair value. Fair value is determined based on best available evidence including comparable sales, current appraised values, property tax assessed values, and discounted cash flow analysis. If fair value is less than cost, the carrying value of our investments is reduced and an impairment charge is recorded in the current period. In the fourth quarter of 2011, our impairment analysis indicated that the estimated future cash flows were not adequate to recover the carrying basis of certain properties not strategic to our three major development projects. Consequently, we reduced the cost basis to estimated fair value, resulting in a pretax impairment charge of $1.7 million. The remaining cost basis of these properties amounted to $3.0 million as of December 31, 2011. Derivatives. ALLETE is exposed to certain risks relating to its business operations that can be managed through the use of derivative instruments. ALLETE may enter into derivative instruments to manage interest rate risk related to certain variable-rate borrowings. Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. We apply the fair value recognition guidance for share-based payments. Under this guidance, we recognize stock-based compensation expense for all share-based payments granted, net of an estimated forfeiture rate. (See Note 17. Employee Stock and Incentive Plans.)
Environmental Liabilities. We review environmental matters for disclosure 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. These accruals are adjusted periodically as assessment and remediation efforts progress or as additional technical or legal information becomes available. Accruals for environmental liabilities are included in the 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 operating expense unless recoverable in rates from customers. (See Note 11. Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies.) Revenue Recognition. Regulated utility rates are under the jurisdiction of Minnesota, Wisconsin and federal regulatory authorities. Customers are billed on a cycle basis. Revenue is accrued for service provided but not billed. Regulated utility electric rates include adjustment clauses that: (1) bill or credit customers for fuel and purchased energy costs above or below the base levels in rate schedules; (2) bill retail customers for the recovery of conservation improvement program expenditures not collected in base rates; and (3) bill customers for the recovery of certain transmission and renewable energy expenditures. Fuel and purchased power expense is deferred to match the period in which the revenue for fuel and purchased power expense is collected from customers pursuant to the fuel adjustment clause. BNI recognizes revenue when coal is delivered. Unamortized Discount and Premium on Debt. Discount and premium on debt are deferred and amortized over the terms of the related debt instruments using the straight-line method. Income Taxes. We file a consolidated federal income tax return. We account for income taxes using the liability method in accordance with the accounting standards for income taxes. Under the liability method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are established for all temporary differences in the book and tax basis of assets and liabilities, based upon enacted tax laws and rates applicable to the periods in which the taxes become payable. Due to the effects of regulation on Minnesota Power and SWL&P, certain adjustments made to deferred income taxes are, in turn, recorded as regulatory assets or liabilities. Federal investment tax credits have been recorded as deferred credits and are being amortized to income tax expense over the service lives of the related property. In accordance with the accounting standards for uncertainty in income taxes, we are required to recognize in our financial statements the largest tax benefit of a tax position that is “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained on audit, based solely on the technical merits of the position as of the reporting date. The term “more-likely-than-not” means more than 50 percent likely. (See Note 14. Income Tax Expense.) Excise Taxes. We collect excise taxes from our customers levied by government entities. These taxes are stated separately on the billing to the customer and recorded as a liability to be remitted to the government entity. We account for the collection and payment of these taxes on a net basis. New Accounting Standards. Fair Value. In May 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on fair value measurement. This update requires disclosure of a sensitivity analysis for fair value measurements within Level 3 and the valuation process used. This guidance will be effective beginning with the quarter ending March 31, 2012, and is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Statement of Comprehensive Income. In June 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance will be effective beginning with the quarter ending March 31, 2012, and will modify our presentation of other comprehensive income, moving it to a separate, consecutive statement of comprehensive income immediately following the statement of income. The components of net income and other comprehensive income are unchanged and earnings per share continues to be based on net income. |
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Business Segments
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Business Segments [Text Block] | Business Segments Regulated Operations includes our regulated utilities, Minnesota Power and SWL&P, as well as our investment in ATC, a Wisconsin-based utility that owns and maintains electric transmission assets in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Illinois. Investments and Other is comprised primarily of BNI Coal, our coal mining operations in North Dakota, ALLETE Properties, our Florida real estate investment, and ALLETE Clean Energy, formed in June 2011, aimed at developing or acquiring capital projects that create energy solutions via wind, solar, biomass, hydro, natural gas/liquids, shale resources, clean coal and other clean energy innovations. This segment also includes a small amount of non-rate base generation, approximately 5,500 acres of land available-for-sale in Minnesota, and earnings on cash and investments. For a description of our reportable business segments, see Item 1. Business.
Note 2. Business Segments (Continued)
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The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Property, Plant and Equipment
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| Property, Plant and Equipment [Text Block] | Property, Plant and Equipment
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the various classes of assets. The MPUC and the PSCW have approved depreciation rates for our Regulated Utility plant.
Asset Retirement Obligations. We recognize, at fair value, obligations associated with the retirement of certain tangible, long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction or development and/or normal operation of the asset. Asset retirement obligations (ARO) relate primarily to the decommissioning of our coal-fired generating facilities and land reclamation at BNI Coal, and are included in Other Non-Current Liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet. The associated retirement costs are capitalized as part of the related long-lived asset and depreciated over the useful life of the asset. Removal costs associated with certain distribution and transmission assets have not been recognized, as these facilities have indeterminate useful lives. Conditional asset retirement obligations have been identified for treated wood poles and remaining polychlorinated biphenyl and asbestos-containing assets; however, removal costs have not been recognized because they are considered immaterial to our consolidated financial statements. Long-standing ratemaking practices approved by applicable state and federal regulatory commissions have allowed provisions for future plant removal costs in depreciation rates. These plant removal cost recoveries were included in accumulated depreciation. These plant removal cost recoveries are classified either as AROs or as a regulatory liability for non-ARO obligations. To the extent annual accruals for plant removal costs differ from accruals under approved depreciation rates, a regulatory asset has been established in accordance with the guidance for AROs. (See Note 5. Regulatory Matters.)
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The entire disclosure for long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. This disclosure may include property plant and equipment accounting policies and methodology, a schedule of property, plant and equipment gross, additions, deletions, transfers and other changes, depreciation, depletion and amortization expense, net, accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization expense and useful lives, income statement disclosures, assets held for sale and public utility disclosures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Jointly-Owned Electric Facility
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| Jointly-Owned Electric Facility [Text Block] | Jointly-Owned Electric Facilities Following are our investments in jointly-owned facilities and the related ownership percentages as of December 31, 2011:
We own 80 percent of the 585 MW Boswell Unit 4. While we operate the plant, certain decisions about the operations of Boswell Unit 4 are subject to the oversight of a committee on which we and WPPI Energy, the owner of the remaining 20 percent of Boswell Unit 4, have equal representation and voting rights. Each of us must provide our own financing and is obligated to pay our ownership share of operating costs. Our share of direct operating expenses of Boswell Unit 4 is included in operating expense on our consolidated statement of income. We are a participant in the CapX2020 initiative to ensure reliable electric transmission and distribution in the region surrounding our rate-regulated operations in Minnesota, along with other electric cooperatives, municipals, and investor-owned utilities. We are currently participating in three CapX2020 projects with varying ownership percentages. |
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Regulatory Matters
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Regulatory Matters [Text Block] | Regulatory Matters Electric Rates. Entities within our Regulated Operations segment file for periodic rate revisions with the MPUC, the FERC or the PSCW. 2010 Rate Case. On November 2, 2010, Minnesota Power received a written order from the MPUC approving a retail rate increase of $53.5 million, a 10.38 percent return on common equity and a 54.29 percent equity ratio, subject to reconsideration. On May 24, 2011, the MPUC issued an order authorizing Minnesota Power to implement final rates of $53.5 million, effective June 1, 2011. The May 24, 2011 order authorized Minnesota Power to collect a $3.2 million differential between interim rates and final rates for the period from November 2, 2010 through May 31, 2011, all of which was recorded in 2011. Under the terms of a stipulation and settlement agreement approved by the MPUC as part of this rate case, Minnesota Power agreed to forgo collection of $20.5 million in revenue receivable that it was entitled to under a prior rider for the Boswell Unit 3 environmental retrofit. The agreement required the Company to capitalize, as part of rate base, the $20.5 million to property, plant and equipment representing AFUDC. In conjunction with the settlement agreement, and upon receipt of the final rate order in February 2011, the Company reversed a $6.2 million deferred tax liability related to the revenue receivable Minnesota Power agreed to forgo. The $20.5 million revenue receivable was previously included in regulatory assets on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. On February 22, 2011, Minnesota Power appealed the MPUC’s interim rate decision in the Company’s 2010 rate case with the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The Company appealed the MPUC’s finding of exigent circumstances in the interim rate decision with the primary arguments that the MPUC exceeded its statutory authority, made its decision without the support of a body of record evidence and that the decision violated public policy. The Company desires to resolve whether the MPUC’s finding of exigent circumstances was lawful for application in future rate cases. In December 2011, the Minnesota Court of Appeals concluded that the MPUC did not err in finding exigent circumstances and properly exercised its discretion in setting interim rates. On January 4, 2012, the Company filed a petition for review at the Minnesota Supreme Court, but cannot predict the outcome at this time.
FERC-Approved Wholesale Rates. Minnesota Power’s non-affiliated municipal customers consist of 16 municipalities in Minnesota and 1 private utility in Wisconsin. SWL&P, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ALLETE, is also a private utility in Wisconsin and a customer of Minnesota Power. In 2008, Minnesota Power entered into formula-based rate contracts with these customers. In February 2011, Minnesota Power entered into a new formula-based contract with the City of Nashwauk, effective May 1, 2012, through April 30, 2022. In June 2011, Minnesota Power entered into restated contracts, effective July 1, 2011, through June 30, 2019, with the remaining 15 Minnesota municipal customers, and effective August 1, 2011, through June 30, 2019, with SWL&P. The rates included in these contracts are calculated using a cost-based formula methodology that is set each July using estimated costs and a rate of return that is equal to our authorized rate of return for Minnesota retail customers (10.38 percent). The formula-based rate methodology also provides for a monthly and yearly true-up calculation for actual costs incurred. Both the new and restated contract terms include a termination clause requiring a three-year notice to terminate. Under the City of Nashwauk contract, no termination notice may be given prior to April 30, 2019. Under the restated contracts, no termination notices may be given prior to June 30, 2016. A two-year cancellation notice is required for the one private non-affiliated utility in Wisconsin, and on December 31, 2011, this customer submitted a cancellation notice with termination effective on December 31, 2013. We are currently in negotiations to extend the contract with this customer. 2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase. SWL&P’s 2011 retail rates are based on a 2010 PSCW retail rate order, effective January 1, 2011, that allows for a 10.9 percent return on common equity. The new rates reflect a 2.4 percent average increase in retail utility rates for SWL&P customers (a 12.8 percent increase in water rates, a 2.5 percent increase in natural gas rates and a 0.7 percent increase in electric rates). On an annualized basis, the rate increase will generate approximately $2.0 million in additional revenue. ALLETE Clean Energy. On August 26, 2011, the Company filed with the MPUC for approval of certain affiliated interest agreements between ALLETE and ALLETE Clean Energy. These agreements relate to various relationships with ALLETE, including the accounting for certain shared services, as well as the transfer of transmission and wind development rights in North Dakota to ALLETE Clean Energy. These transmission and wind development rights are separate and distinct from those needed by Minnesota Power to meet Minnesota’s renewable energy standard requirements. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (PPACA). In March 2010, PPACA was signed into law. One of the provisions changed the tax treatment for retiree prescription drug expenses by eliminating the tax deduction for expenses that are reimbursed under Medicare Part D, beginning January 1, 2013. Based on this provision, we are subject to additional taxes in the future and were required to reverse previously recorded tax benefits in 2010. Consequently, the reversal of previously recorded tax benefits resulted in a non-recurring charge to net income of $4.0 million in 2010. In October 2010, we submitted a filing with the MPUC requesting deferral of the retail portion of the tax charge taken in 2010 resulting from PPACA. On May 24, 2011, the MPUC approved our request for deferral until the next rate case and as a result we recorded an income tax benefit of $2.9 million and a related regulatory asset of $5.0 million. (See Note 14. Income Tax Expense.) Pension. On December 22, 2011, the Company filed a petition with the MPUC requesting a mechanism to recover the cost of capital associated with the prepaid pension asset (or liability) created by the required contributions under the pension plan in excess of (or less than) annual pension expense. The Company further requested a mechanism to defer pension expenses in excess of (or less than) those currently being recovered in base rates. If our petition is successful the impact would be deferred in a regulatory asset (or liability) for recovery (or refund) in the Company’s next general rate case. Regulatory Assets and Liabilities. Our regulated utility operations are subject to the accounting standards on Regulated Operations. We capitalize, as regulatory assets, incurred costs which are probable of recovery in future utility rates. Regulatory liabilities represent amounts expected to be refunded or credited to customers in rates. No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return.
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Investment in ATC
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Investment in ATC [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investment in ATC [Text Block] | Investment in ATC Investment in ATC. Our wholly-owned subsidiary, Rainy River Energy, owns approximately 8 percent of ATC, a Wisconsin-based utility that owns and maintains electric transmission assets in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois. ATC rates are FERC approved and are based on a 12.2 percent return on common equity dedicated to utility plant. We account for our investment in ATC under the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2011, our equity investment in ATC was $98.9 million ($93.3 million at December 31, 2010). On January 30, 2012, we invested an additional $0.8 million in ATC. In total, we expect to invest approximately $3 million throughout 2012.
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The entire disclosure for equity investment, or group of investments, for which combined disclosure is appropriate, including: (a) the name of each investee and percentage of ownership of common stock, (b) accounting policies for investments in common stock, (c) difference between the amount at which the investment is carried and the amount of underlying equity in net assets and the accounting treatment of the difference, (d) the total fair value of each identified investment for which a market value is available, (e) summarized information as to assets, liabilities, and results of operations of the investees (for investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries, common stock of joint ventures, or other investments using the equity method), and (f) material effects of possible conversions, exercises, or contingent issuances of the investee. Other disclosures include (a) the names of any investee in which the investor owns 20 percent or more of the voting stock and investment is not accounted for using the equity method, and the reasons why not, and (b) the names of any investee in which the investor owns less than 20 percent of the voting stock and the investment is accounted for using the equity method, and the reasons why it is. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Investments
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investments [Text Block] | Investments Investments. At December 31, 2011, our long-term investment portfolio included the real estate assets of ALLETE Properties, debt and equity securities consisting primarily of securities held to fund employee benefits and land available-for-sale in Minnesota.
Land Inventory. 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 impairment on a quarterly basis. In the fourth quarter of 2011, an impairment analysis of estimated future undiscounted cash flows was conducted and indicated that the cash flows were not adequate to recover the carrying basis of certain properties not strategic to our three major development projects. Consequently, we reduced the cost basis to estimated fair value resulting in a pretax impairment charge of $1.7 million. Fair value was determined based on property tax assessed values, discounted cash flow analysis, or a combination thereof. No impairments were recorded for the year ended December 31, 2010. Long-Term Finance Receivables. As of December 31, 2011, long-term finance receivables were $2.0 million net of allowance ($3.7 million net of allowance as of December 31, 2010). The decrease is primarily the result of the transfer of properties back to ALLETE Properties by deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, in satisfaction of amounts previously owed under long-term financing receivables. Long-term finance receivables are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of December 31, 2011, we had allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.6 million ($0.8 million as of December 31, 2010). The decrease in allowance for doubtful accounts is primarily due to recovery of real estate taxes and accrued interest on previously delinquent notes receivable. If a purchaser defaults on a sales contract, the legal remedy is usually limited to terminating the contract and retaining the purchaser’s deposit. The property is then available for resale. In many cases, contract purchasers incur significant costs during due diligence, planning, designing and marketing the property before the contract closes, therefore they have substantially more at risk than the deposit. Available-for-Sale Investments. We account for our available-for-sale portfolio in accordance with the guidance for certain investments in debt and equity securities. Our available-for-sale securities portfolio consisted of securities established to fund certain employee benefits and auction rate securities.
Auction Rate Securities. As of December 31, 2010, our ARS were classified as a short-term investment as the remaining balance of $6.7 million was redeemed at carrying value on January 5, 2011. |
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Tabular disclosure of investments in certain debt and equity securities (and certain other trading assets) which include all debt and equity securities (other than those equity securities accounted for under the equity or cost methods of accounting) with readily determinable fair values. Other trading assets include assets that are carried on the balance sheet at fair value and held for trading purposes. A debt security represents a creditor relationship with an enterprise that is in the form of a security. Debt securities include, among other items, US Treasury securities, US government securities, municipal securities, corporate bonds, convertible debt, commercial paper, and all securitized debt instruments. An equity security represents an ownership interest in an enterprise or the right to acquire or dispose of an ownership interest in an enterprise at fixed or determinable prices. Equity securities include, among other things, common stock, certain preferred stock, warrant rights, call options, and put options, but do not include convertible debt. An entity may opt to provide the reader with additional narrative text to better understand the nature of investments in debt and equity securities (and other trading assets). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Derivatives
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Derivatives [Abstract] | |
| Derivatives [Text Block] | Derivatives During the third quarter of 2011, we entered into a variable-to-fixed interest rate swap (Swap), designated as a cash flow hedge, in order to manage the interest rate risk associated with a $75.0 million Term Loan. The Term Loan has a variable interest rate equal to the one-month LIBOR plus 1.00 percent, has a maturity of August 25, 2014, and represents approximately 9 percent of the Company’s outstanding long-term debt as of December 31, 2011. (See Note 10. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt.) The Swap agreement has a notional amount equal to the underlying debt principal and matures on August 25, 2014. The Swap agreement involves the receipt of variable rate amounts in exchange for fixed rate interest payments over the life of the agreement without an exchange of the underlying notional amount. The variable rate of the Swap is equal to the one-month LIBOR and the fixed rate is equal to 0.825 percent. Cash flows from the interest rate swap are expected to be highly effective in offsetting the variable interest expense of the debt attributable to fluctuations in the LIBOR benchmark interest rate over the life of the Swap. If it is determined that a derivative is not or has ceased to be effective as a hedge, the Company prospectively discontinues hedge accounting. The shortcut method is used to assess hedge effectiveness. At inception, all shortcut method requirements were satisfied; thus changes in value of the Swap designated as the hedging instrument will be deemed 100 percent effective. As a result, there was no ineffectiveness recorded for the year ended December 31, 2011. The mark-to-market fluctuation on the cash flow hedge was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income on the consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2011, a $0.4 million decrease in fair value was recorded and is included in other non-current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. Cash flows from derivative activities are presented in the same category as the item being hedged on the consolidated statement of cash flows. Amounts recorded in other comprehensive income related to cash flow hedges will be recognized in earnings when the hedged transactions occur or when it is probable that the hedged transactions will not occur. Gains or losses on interest rate hedging transactions are reflected as a component of interest expense on the consolidated statement of income. |
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The entire disclosure for the entity's entire derivative instruments and hedging activities. Describes an entity's risk management strategies, derivatives in hedging activities and non-hedging derivative instruments, the assets, obligations, liabilities, revenues and expenses arising therefrom, and the amounts of and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts of such items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Fair Value
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair Value [Text Block] | Fair Value 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). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows: Level 1 — Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date. Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. This category includes primarily mutual fund investments held to fund employee benefits. Level 2 — Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, but are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reported date. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 2 are typically either comparable to actively traded securities or contracts, such as treasury securities with pricing interpolated from recent trades of similar securities, or priced with models using highly observable inputs, such as commodity options priced using observable forward prices and volatilities. This category includes deferred compensation, fixed income securities, and derivative instruments consisting of cash flow hedges. Level 3 — Significant inputs that are generally less observable from objective sources. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 3 are those with inputs requiring significant management judgment or estimation, such as the complex and subjective models and forecasts used to determine the fair value. This category included ARS consisting of guaranteed student loans and derivative instruments consisting of financial transmission rights. 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 December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. 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 fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.
The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers in and transfers out as of the actual date of the event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer. For the year ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no transfers in or out of Levels 1, 2 or 3. Fair Value of Financial Instruments. With the exception of the items listed below, the estimated fair value of all financial instruments approximates the carrying amount. The fair value for the items below were based on quoted market prices for the same or similar instruments.
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The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Short-term and Long-term Debt
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Text Block] | Short-Term and Long-Term Debt Short-Term Debt. Total short-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2011, was $6.5 million ($14.4 million at December 31, 2010) and consisted of long-term debt due within one year and notes payable. As of December 31, 2011, we had bank lines of credit aggregating $256.4 million ($154.0 million at December 31, 2010), $250.0 million of which expires in June 2015. These bank lines of credit are available to provide short-term bank loans and liquidity support for ALLETE's commercial paper program. At December 31, 2011, $1.1 million ($1.0 million at December 31, 2010) was drawn on our lines of credit leaving a $255.3 million balance available for use ($153.0 million at December 31, 2010). On February 1, 2012, ALLETE entered into a $150.0 million credit agreement (Agreement) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and several other lenders that are parties thereto. The Agreement is unsecured and has a maturity date of January 31, 2014, which may be extended for one year, subject to bank approvals. Advances from the Agreement may be used for general corporate purposes, to provide liquidity support for ALLETE’s commercial paper program and to issue up to $10.0 million in letters of credit. On May 25, 2011, ALLETE entered into a $250.0 million credit agreement (Agreement) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and several other lenders that are parties thereto. The Agreement was effective July 1, 2011, and replaced our previous $150.0 million credit facility. The Agreement is unsecured and has a maturity date of June 30, 2015, which may be extended for one year. Such extension is subject to bank approvals. Advances from the Agreement may be used for general corporate purposes, to provide liquidity support for ALLETE’s commercial paper program and to issue up to $40.0 million in letters of credit. Long-Term Debt. The aggregate amount of long-term debt maturing during 2012 is $5.4 million ($83.8 million in 2013; $94.1 million in 2014; $16.7 million in 2015; $21.0 million in 2016; and $642.3 million thereafter). Substantially all of our electric plant is subject to the lien of the mortgage collateralizing outstanding first mortgage bonds. The mortgages contain non-financial covenants customary in utility mortgages, including restrictions on our ability to incur liens, dispose of assets, and merge with other entities. On August 25, 2011, ALLETE entered into a $75.0 million term loan agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent and a lender, and Bank of America, N.A., as a lender (Term Loan). The Term Loan is an unsecured, single-draw loan that is due on August 25, 2014. The interest rate on the Term Loan is equal to the one-month LIBOR plus 1 percent; however, we also entered into an interest rate swap agreement which effectively fixed the interest rate at 1.825 percent over the term of the loan. (See Note 8. Derivatives.) Proceeds from the Term Loan were used for general corporate purposes. As of December 31, 2011, there was $75.0 million outstanding on the Term Loan. On November 14, 2011, ALLETE Properties renewed an $8.3 million line of credit with RBC Bank extending the maturity of the line of credit to November 2013. The previous line of credit was $10.0 million which ALLETE Properties reduced by $1.7 million million at the time of renewal. On October 7, 2011, ALLETE Properties renewed a $3.0 million line of credit with Intracoastal Bank, extending maturity of the line to October 2013, with all other terms remaining unchanged. Note 10. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Continued)
Financial Covenants. Our long-term debt arrangements contain customary covenants. In addition, our lines of credit and letters of credit supporting certain long-term debt arrangements contain financial covenants. Our compliance with financial covenants is not dependent on debt ratings. The most restrictive covenant requires ALLETE to maintain a ratio of its Indebtedness to Total Capitalization (as the amounts are calculated in accordance with the respective long-term debt arrangements) of less than or equal to 0.65 to 1.00 measured quarterly. As of December 31, 2011, our ratio was approximately 0.44 to 1.00. Failure to meet this covenant would give rise to an event of default if not cured after notice from the lender, in which event ALLETE may need to pursue alternative sources of funding. Some of ALLETE’s debt arrangements contain “cross-default” provisions that would result in an event of default if there is a failure under other financing arrangements to meet payment terms or to observe other covenants that would result in an acceleration of payments due. As of December 31, 2011, ALLETE was in compliance with its financial covenants. |
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The entire disclosure for information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies | Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies Power Purchase Agreements. Our long-term PPAs have been evaluated under the accounting guidance for variable interest entities. We have determined that either we have no variable interest in the PPA, or where we do have variable interests, we are not the primary beneficiary; therefore, consolidation is not required. These conclusions are based on the fact that we do not have both control over activities that are most significant to the entity and an obligation to absorb losses or receive benefits from the entity’s performance. Our financial exposure relating to these PPAs is limited to our fixed capacity and energy payments.
Power Purchase Agreements (Continued) Square Butte PPA. Minnesota Power has a PPA with Square Butte that extends through 2026 (Agreement). It provides a long-term supply of energy to customers in our electric service territory and enables Minnesota Power to meet reserve requirements. Square Butte, a North Dakota cooperative corporation, owns a 455 MW coal-fired generating unit (Unit) near Center, North Dakota. The Unit is adjacent to a generating unit owned by Minnkota Power, a North Dakota cooperative corporation whose Class A members are also members of Square Butte. Minnkota Power serves as the operator of the Unit and also purchases power from Square Butte. Minnesota Power is obligated to pay its pro rata share of Square Butte’s costs based on Minnesota Power’s entitlement to Unit output. Our output entitlement under the Agreement is 50 percent for the remainder of the contract, subject to the provisions of the Minnkota power sales agreement described below. Minnesota Power’s payment obligation will be suspended if Square Butte fails to deliver any power, whether produced or purchased, for a period of one year. Square Butte’s costs consist primarily of debt service, operating and maintenance, depreciation and fuel expenses. As of December 31, 2011, Square Butte had total debt outstanding of $451.4 million. Annual debt service for Square Butte is expected to be approximately $44 million in each of the five years, 2012 through 2016, of which Minnesota Power's obligation is 50 percent. Fuel expenses are recoverable through our fuel adjustment clause and include the cost of coal purchased from BNI Coal, our subsidiary, under a long-term contract. Minnesota Power’s cost of power purchased from Square Butte during 2011 was $61.2 million ($55.2 million in 2010; $53.9 million in 2009). This reflects Minnesota Power’s pro rata share of total Square Butte costs based on the 50 percent output entitlement. Included in this amount was Minnesota Power’s pro rata share of interest expense of $11.1 million in 2011 ($10.2 million in 2010; $11.0 million in 2009). Minnesota Power’s payments to Square Butte are approved as a purchased power expense for ratemaking purposes by both the MPUC and the FERC. Minnkota Power Sales Agreement. In conjunction with the purchase of the existing 250 kV DC transmission line from Square Butte in December 2009, Minnesota Power entered into a power sales agreement with Minnkota Power. Under the power sales agreement, Minnesota Power will sell a portion of its output from Square Butte to Minnkota Power, resulting in Minnkota Power’s net entitlement increasing and Minnesota Power’s net entitlement decreasing until Minnesota Power’s share is eliminated at the end of 2025. No power will be sold under this agreement until Minnkota Power has placed in service a new AC transmission line, which is anticipated to occur in 2013. This new AC transmission line will allow Minnkota Power to transmit its entitlement from Square Butte directly to its customers, which, in turn, will allow Minnesota Power the ability to transmit additional wind generation on the DC transmission line. Wind PPAs. In 2006 and 2007, Minnesota Power entered into two long-term wind PPAs with an affiliate of NextEra Energy, Inc. to purchase the output from Oliver Wind I (50 MW) and Oliver Wind II (48 MW), wind facilities located near Center, North Dakota. Each agreement is for 25 years and provides for the purchase of all output from the facilities at fixed prices. There are no fixed capacity charges, and we only pay for energy as it is delivered to us. Hydro PPAs. Minnesota Power has a PPA with Manitoba Hydro that expires in April 2015. Under this agreement, Minnesota Power is purchasing 50 MW of capacity and the energy associated with that capacity. Both the capacity price and the energy price are adjusted annually by the change in a governmental inflationary index. Minnesota Power has a separate PPA with Manitoba Hydro to purchase surplus energy from May 2011 through April 2022. This energy-only transaction primarily consists of surplus hydro energy on Manitoba Hydro’s system that is delivered to Minnesota Power on a non-firm basis. The pricing is based on forward market prices. Under this agreement, Minnesota Power will purchase at least one million MWh of energy over the contract term. On March 31, 2011, the MPUC approved this PPA with Manitoba Hydro. On May 19, 2011, Minnesota Power and Manitoba Hydro signed a long-term PPA. The PPA calls for Manitoba Hydro to sell 250 MW of capacity and energy to Minnesota Power for 15 years beginning in 2020 and requires construction of additional transmission capacity between Manitoba and the U.S. The capacity price is adjusted annually until 2020 by a change in a governmental inflationary index. The energy price is based on a formula that includes an annual fixed price component adjusted for a change in a governmental inflationary index and a natural gas index, as well as market prices. On January 26, 2012, the MPUC approved this PPA with Manitoba Hydro. North Dakota Wind Development. Minnesota Power uses the 465-mile, 250 kV DC transmission line that runs from Center, North Dakota, to Duluth, Minnesota to transport increasing amounts of wind energy from North Dakota while gradually phasing out coal-based electricity delivered to our system over this transmission line from Square Butte’s lignite coal-fired generating unit. Bison 1 is an 82 MW wind project in North Dakota. All permitting has been received, the first phase was completed in 2010, and the second phase was completed in January 2012. Phase one included construction of a 22-mile, 230 kV transmission line and the installation of sixteen 2.3 MW wind turbines. Phase two consisted of the installation of fifteen 3.0 MW wind turbines. Bison 1 is expected to have a total project cost of $177 million, of which $171.5 million was spent through December 31, 2011. In 2009, the MPUC approved Minnesota Power’s petition seeking current cost recovery for investments and expenditures related to Bison 1, and in July 2010, the MPUC approved our petition establishing rates effective August 1, 2010. On November 3, 2011, the MPUC issued an order approving our petition to update the rates for additional investments and expenditures related to Bison 1. Bison 2 and Bison 3 are both 105 MW wind projects in North Dakota which are expected to be completed by the end of 2012. Site preparation is currently underway for both projects and the total project costs for Bison 2 and Bison 3 are estimated to be approximately $160 million each, of which $37.0 million and $14.7 million, respectively, was spent through December 31, 2011. On September 8, 2011, and November 2, 2011, the MPUC approved Minnesota Power's petition seeking current cost recovery for investments and expenditures related to Bison 2 and Bison 3, respectively. On August 10, 2011, and October 12, 2011, the NDPSC issued a Certificate of Site Compatibility for Bison 2 and Bison 3, respectively, which authorized site construction to commence. We anticipate filing petitions with the MPUC in the first half of 2012 to establish customer billing rates for the approved cost recovery. Leasing Agreements. BNI Coal is obligated to make lease payments for a dragline totaling $2.8 million annually for the lease term which expires in 2027. BNI Coal has the option at the end of the lease term to renew the lease at fair market value, to purchase the dragline at fair market value, or to surrender the dragline and pay a $3 million termination fee. We lease other properties and equipment under operating lease agreements with terms expiring through 2016. The aggregate amount of minimum lease payments for all operating leases is $10.9 million in 2012, $11.1 million in 2013, $11.4 million in 2014, $11.2 million in 2015, $9.2 million in 2016 and $43.0 million thereafter. Total rent and lease expense was $9.4 million in 2011 ($9.4 million in 2010; $9.3 million in 2009). Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts. We have coal supply agreements providing for the purchase of a significant portion of our coal requirements which expire in 2012 and 2013. We also have coal transportation agreements in place for the delivery of a significant portion of our coal requirements with expiration dates through 2015. Our minimum annual payment obligation under these supply and transportation agreements for 2012 is $55.4 million, and 2013 is $27.0 million. Our minimum annual payment obligations will increase when annual nominations are made for coal deliveries in future years. The delivered costs of fuel for Minnesota Power’s generation are recoverable from Minnesota Power’s utility customers through the fuel adjustment clause. Transmission. We are making investments in Upper Midwest transmission opportunities that strengthen or enhance the regional transmission grid. This includes the CapX2020 initiative, investments in our own transmission assets, investments in other regional transmission assets (by ourselves or in combination with others), and our investment in ATC. Transmission Investments. We have an approved cost recovery rider in place for certain transmission expenditures and the continued use of our 2009 billing factor was approved by the MPUC in May 2011. The billing factor allows us to charge our retail customers on a current basis for the costs of constructing certain transmission facilities plus a return on the capital invested. On June 29, 2011, we filed an updated billing factor that includes additional transmission projects and expenses, which we expect to be approved in 2012. CapX2020. Minnesota Power is a participant in the CapX2020 initiative which represents an effort to ensure electric transmission and distribution reliability in Minnesota and the surrounding region for the future. CapX2020, which consists of electric cooperatives, municipals and investor-owned utilities, including Minnesota’s largest transmission owners, has assessed the transmission system and projected growth in customer demand for electricity through 2020. Studies show that the region's transmission system will require major upgrades and expansion to accommodate increased electricity demand as well as support renewable energy expansion through 2020. Note 11. Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies (Continued) Transmission (Continued) Minnesota Power is currently participating in three CapX2020 projects: the Fargo, North Dakota to St. Cloud, Minnesota project, the Monticello, Minnesota to St. Cloud, Minnesota project, which together total a 238-mile, 345 kV line from Fargo, North Dakota to Monticello, Minnesota, and the 70-mile, 230 kV line between Bemidji, Minnesota and Minnesota Power’s Boswell Energy Center near Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Based on projected costs of the three transmission lines and the percentage agreements among participating utilities, Minnesota Power plans to invest between $100 million and $125 million in the CapX2020 initiative through 2015, of which $27.8 million was spent through December 31, 2011. As future CapX2020 projects are identified, Minnesota Power may elect to participate on a project-by-project basis. In July 2010, the MPUC granted a route permit for the 28-mile 345 kV line between Monticello and St. Cloud. The project was completed and placed into service in December 2011. On June 10, 2011, the MPUC approved the route permit for the Minnesota portion of the Fargo to St. Cloud project. The North Dakota permitting process is underway. The entire 238-mile, 345 kV line from St. Cloud to Fargo is expected to be in service by 2015. In November 2010, the MPUC approved a route permit for the Bemidji to Grand Rapids, Minnesota line and construction for the 230 kV line project commenced in January 2011. The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe (LLBO) subsequently requested the MPUC suspend or revoke the route permit and also served the CapX2020 owners with a complaint filed in Leech Lake Tribal Court asserting adjudicatory and regulatory authority over the project. The CapX2020 owners filed a request for declaratory judgment in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota (District Court) that the project does not require LLBO consent to cross non-tribal land within the reservation. On June 22, 2011, the federal judge issued a preliminary injunction directing the LLBO to cease and desist its claims of tribal court jurisdiction or from taking other actions to interfere with regulatory review, approval or project construction. The LLBO abandoned its motion to dismiss the declaratory action because the District Court’s injunction order had already dismissed the basis for the motion, namely, that the District Court did not have jurisdiction to hear the CapX2020 owners’ action. The parties are now proceeding with discovery and the CapX2020 owners do not anticipate any actions by the District Court until after the completion of discovery closes on May 31, 2012. The MPUC has taken no action in the matter in light of ongoing litigation in federal and tribal courts. The CapX2020 utilities are vigorously defending against the LLBO actions. Environmental Matters Our businesses are subject to regulation of environmental matters by various federal, state and local authorities. Currently, a number of regulatory changes to the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act and various waste management requirements are under consideration by both Congress and the EPA. Minnesota Power's fossil fuel facilities will likely be subject to regulation under these proposals. Our intention is to reduce our exposure to these requirements by reshaping our generation portfolio over time to reduce our reliance on coal. We consider our businesses to be in substantial compliance with currently applicable environmental regulations and believe all necessary permits to conduct such operations have been obtained. Due to future restrictive environmental requirements through legislation and/or rulemaking, we anticipate that potential expenditures for environmental matters will be material and will require significant capital investments. 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 become 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. Air. The electric utility industry is heavily regulated both at the federal and state level to address air emissions. Minnesota Power's generating facilities mainly burn low-sulfur western sub-bituminous coal. Square Butte, located in North Dakota, burns lignite coal. All of Minnesota Power's coal-fired generating facilities are equipped with pollution control equipment such as scrubbers, bag houses and low NOX technologies. At this time, under currently applicable environmental regulations, these facilities are substantially compliant with applicable emission requirements. New Source Review (NSR). In August 2008, Minnesota Power received a Notice of Violation (NOV) from the EPA asserting violations of the NSR requirements of the Clean Air Act at Boswell Units 1, 2, 3 and 4 and Laskin Unit 2. The NOV asserts that seven projects undertaken at these coal-fired plants between the years 1981 and 2000 should have been reviewed under the NSR requirements and that the Boswell Unit 4 Title V permit was violated. In April 2011, Minnesota Power received a NOV alleging that two projects undertaken at Rapids Energy Center in 2004 and 2005 should have been reviewed under the NSR requirements and that the Rapids Energy Center's Title V permit was violated. Minnesota Power believes the projects specified in the NOVs were in full compliance with the Clean Air Act, NSR requirements and applicable permits. We are engaged in discussions with the EPA regarding resolution of these matters, but we are unable to predict the outcome of these discussions. The resolution could result in civil penalties and the installation of control technology, some of which is already planned or completed for other regulatory requirements. Any costs of installing pollution control technology would likely be eligible for recovery in rates over time subject to MPUC and FERC approval in a rate proceeding. Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). On July 6, 2011, the EPA issued the CSAPR, which went into effect on October 7, 2011. The final rule replaced the EPA's 2005 Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). However, on December 30, 2011, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued a ruling staying implementation of the CSAPR, pending judicial review, and ordered that the CAIR remain in place while the CSAPR is stayed. If the CSAPR is reinstated after judicial review, it will require states in the CSAPR region to significantly improve air quality by reducing power plant emissions that contribute to ozone and/or fine particle pollution in other states. These regulations do not directly require the installation of controls. Instead, they require facilities to have sufficient emission allowances to cover their emissions on an annual basis. These allowances would be allocated to facilities annually by the EPA and will also be able to be bought and sold. The CAIR regulations similarly require certain states to improve air quality by reducing power plant emissions that contribute to ozone and/or fine particle pollution in other states. Minnesota participation in the CAIR was stayed by EPA administrative action while the EPA completed a review of air quality modeling issues in conjunction with the development of a final replacement rule. In its final determination, the EPA listed Minnesota as a CSAPR-affected state based on new 24-hour fine particulate NAAQS analysis. While the CAIR remains in effect, Minnesota participation in the CAIR will continue to be stayed. It is uncertain if the CSAPR-related emission restrictions will become effective for Minnesota utilities. Since 2006, we have significantly reduced emissions at our Laskin, Taconite Harbor and Boswell generating units. Our analysis, based on our expected generation rates, indicates that these recent emission reductions would satisfy Minnesota Power's SO2 and NOX emission compliance obligations with respect to the EPA-allocated CSAPR allowances for 2012. We will continue to evaluate our compliance strategy under CSAPR and if any capital investments or allowance purchases are required, we would likely seek recovery of those costs. We are unable to predict any additional CSAPR compliance costs we might incur at this time if CSAPR is reinstated. Minnesota Regional Haze. The federal regional haze rule requires states to submit state implementation plans (SIPs) to the EPA to address regional haze visibility impairment in 156 federally-protected parks and wilderness areas. Under the regional haze rule, certain large stationary sources, put in place between 1962 and 1977, with emissions contributing to visibility impairment, are required to install emission controls, known as Best Available Retrofit Technology (BART). We have two steam units, Boswell Unit 3 and Taconite Harbor Unit 3, which are subject to BART requirements. Pursuant to the regional haze rule, Minnesota was required to develop its SIP by December 2007. As a mechanism for demonstrating progress towards meeting the long-term regional haze goal, in April 2007, the MPCA advanced a draft conceptual SIP which relied on the implementation of CAIR. However, a formal SIP was not filed at that time due to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit's remand of CAIR. Subsequently, the MPCA requested that companies with BART-eligible units complete and submit a BART emissions control retrofit study, which was completed for Taconite Harbor Unit 3 in November 2008. The retrofit work completed in 2009 at Boswell Unit 3 meets the BART requirements for that unit. In December 2009, the MPCA approved the Minnesota SIP for submittal to the EPA for its review and approval. The Minnesota SIP incorporates information from the BART emissions control retrofit studies that were completed as requested by the MPCA. On December 30, 2011, the EPA published in the Federal Register a proposal to revise the regional haze rule. This proposal would approve the trading program in the CSAPR as an alternative to determining BART. If adopted, states in the CSAPR region could substitute participation in CSAPR for source-specific BART requirements for SO2 and NOX emissions from power plants. On January 2, 2012, the MPCA submitted to the EPA a supplemental Minnesota regional haze SIP stating that it wishes to rely on the CSAPR to satisfy BART requirements for SO2 and NOx for electric generating units. On January 25, 2012, the EPA published in the Federal Register a proposal to approve the Minnesota SIP, including the supplemental Minnesota SIP. If the Minnesota SIP, the supplemental Minnesota SIP, and the EPA's regional haze rule revisions are finalized as currently proposed, and the CSAPR rule is reinstated, then Minnesota Power does not foresee a need to make significant additional expenditures at Taconite Harbor Unit 3 to comply with the regional haze rule. If controls are ultimately required, Minnesota Power will have up to five years from the final promulgation deadline to bring Taconite Harbor Unit 3 into compliance with the regional haze rule requirements. It is uncertain what controls would ultimately be required at Taconite Harbor Unit 3 under this scenario, in connection with the regional haze rule. Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) Rule (formerly known as the Electric Generating Unit Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule). Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act, the EPA is required to set emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) for certain source categories. The EPA released a proposed MATS rule on March 16, 2011, addressing such emissions from coal-fired utility units greater than 25 MW. The final rule was issued on December 21, 2011. There are currently 188 listed HAPs which the EPA is required to evaluate for establishment of MACT standards. In the final MATS rule, the EPA established categories of HAPs, including mercury, trace metals other than mercury, acid gases, dioxin/furans, and organics other than dioxin/furans. The EPA also established emission limits for the first three categories of HAPs, and work practice standards for the remaining categories. Affected sources would have to be in compliance with the rule three years after it is published in the Federal Register. States have the authority to grant sources a one-year extension. Compliance at our Boswell Unit 4 to address the final MATS rule is expected to result in capital expenditures between $300 million to $400 million over the next five years. Some additional controls for complying with the rule at our remaining coal-fired generating units may be required, the costs of which cannot be estimated at this time. EPA National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Major Sources: Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Boilers and Process Heaters. In March 2011, a final rule was published in the Federal Register for industrial boiler maximum achievable control technology (Industrial Boiler MACT). The rule was stayed by the EPA on May 16, 2011, to allow the EPA time to consider additional comments received. The EPA re-proposed the rule in December 2011. A final rule is expected in April 2012. On January 9, 2012, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that the EPA stay of the Industrial Boiler MACT was unlawful, effectively reinstating the March 2011 rule and associated compliance deadlines. Major sources are expected to have three years to achieve compliance with the final rule. It is not known yet whether the final rule from the December 2011 proposal, expected in April 2012, will establish new compliance deadlines. This rule may result in additional control measures being required at Rapids Energy Center and Hibbard. Costs for complying with the final rule cannot be estimated at this time. Minnesota Mercury Emission Reduction Act. Under Minnesota law, a mercury emissions reduction plan for Boswell Unit 4 is required to be submitted by July 1, 2015, with implementation no later than December 31, 2018. The statute also calls for an evaluation of a mercury control alternative which provides for environmental and public health benefits without imposing excessive costs on the utility's customers. Until Minnesota Power files its mercury emission reduction plan for Boswell Unit 4, it must file an annual report updating the MPUC and other stakeholders on the status of emission reduction planning for Boswell Unit 4. The first update was filed with the MPUC on June 30, 2011. Mercury emission limits have also been included in the recently finalized MATS rule. We anticipate that the emission reduction plan implemented to comply with the MATS rule will satisfy the mercury emission limits under Minnesota law. Costs for the Boswell Unit 4 emission reduction plan are included in the estimated capital expenditures required for compliance with the MATS rule discussed above. Proposed and Finalized National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The EPA is required to review the NAAQS every five years. If the EPA determines that a state's air quality is not in compliance with a NAAQS, the state is required to adopt plans describing how it will reduce emissions to attain the NAAQS. These state plans often include more stringent air emission limitations on sources of air pollutants than the NAAQS. Four NAAQS have either recently been revised or are currently proposed for revision, as described below. Ozone NAAQS. The EPA has proposed to more stringently control emissions that result in ground level ozone. In January 2010, the EPA proposed to revise the 2008 eight-hour ozone standard and to adopt a secondary standard for the protection of sensitive vegetation from ozone-related damage. The EPA was scheduled to decide upon the 2008 eight-hour ozone standard in July 2011, but has announced that it is deferring revision of this standard until 2013. Particulate Matter NAAQS. The EPA finalized the NAAQS Particulate Matter standards in September 2006. Since then, the EPA established a more stringent 24-hour average fine particulate matter (PM2.5) standard and kept the annual average fine particulate matter standard and the 24-hour coarse particulate matter standard unchanged. The United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit has remanded the PM2.5 standard to the EPA, requiring consideration of lower annual average standard values. The EPA expects to propose the new PM2.5 standards in June 2012 with a goal to finalize the rule by June 2013. State attainment status determination will occur after the rule is finalized. It is not known when affected sources would have to take additional control measures if modeling demonstrates non-compliance at their property boundary. The EPA has indicated that ambient air quality monitoring for 2008 through 2010 will be used as a basis for states to characterize their attainment status. SO2 and NO2 NAAQS. During 2010, the EPA finalized new one-hour NAAQS for SO2 and NO2. Monitoring data indicates that Minnesota will likely be in compliance with these new standards; however, the one-hour SO2 NAAQS also requires the EPA to evaluate modeling data to determine attainment. The MPCA intends to complete this initial modeling effort by the end of the first quarter of 2012, using facility data from sources that emit more than 100 tons per year of SO2. Minnesota Power provided such data for all of our steam generating facilities. It is unclear what the outcome of this evaluation will be. These NAAQS modeling efforts could result in more stringent emission limits on our coal-fired generating facilities, and possibly additional control measures on some of our units. The MPCA has informed affected sources that compliance strategies required as a result of these modeling results must be agreed to with the MPCA by February 2013. One-hour SO2 NAAQS attainment is required by 2017. We are unable to predict the compliance costs we might incur; however, the costs could be material. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case. Climate Change. The scientific community generally accepts that emissions of GHGs are linked to global climate change. Climate change creates physical and financial risk. These physical risks could include, but are not limited to: increased or decreased precipitation and water levels in lakes and rivers; increased temperatures; and the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events. These all have the potential to affect the Company's business and operations. Minnesota Power is addressing climate change by taking the following steps that also ensure reliable and environmentally compliant generation resources to meet our customers' requirements:
EPA Regulation of GHG Emissions. In May 2010, the EPA issued the final Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) and Title V Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule (Tailoring Rule). The Tailoring Rule establishes permitting thresholds required to address GHG emissions for new facilities, at existing facilities that undergo major modifications and at other facilities characterized as major sources under the Clean Air Act's Title V program. For our existing facilities, the rule does not require amending our existing Title V Operating Permits to include GHG requirements. Implementation of the requirement to add GHG provisions to permits will be completed at the state level in Minnesota by the MPCA when the Title V permits are renewed. However, installation of new units or modification of existing units resulting in a significant increase in GHG emissions will require obtaining PSD permits and amending our operating permits to demonstrate that Best Available Control Technology (BACT) is being used at the facility to control GHG emissions. The EPA has defined significant emissions increase for existing sources as a GHG increase of 75,000 tons or more per year of total GHG on a CO2 equivalent basis. In late 2010, the EPA issued guidance to permitting authorities and affected sources to facilitate incorporation of the Tailoring Rule permitting requirements into the Title V and PSD permitting programs. The guidance stated that the project-specific top-down BACT determination process used for other pollutants will also be used to determine BACT for GHG emissions. Through sector-specific white papers, the EPA also provided examples and technical summaries of GHG emission control technologies and techniques the EPA considers available or likely to be available to sources. It is possible these control technologies could be determined to be BACT on a project-by-project basis. In the near term, one option appears to be energy efficiency maximization. Legal challenges to the EPA's regulation of GHG emissions, including the Tailoring Rule, have been filed by others and are awaiting judicial determination. Comments to the permitting guidance were also submitted by Minnesota Power and others and may be addressed by the EPA in the form of revised guidance documents. We are unable to predict the compliance costs we might incur; however, the costs could be material. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case. Water. The Clean Water Act requires NPDES permits be obtained from the EPA (or, when delegated, from individual state pollution control agencies) for any wastewater discharged into navigable waters. We have obtained all necessary NPDES permits, including NPDES storm water permits for applicable facilities, to conduct our operations. We are in substantial compliance with these permits. Clean Water Act - Aquatic Organisms. On April 20, 2011, the EPA published in the Federal Register proposed regulations under Section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act that set standards applicable to cooling water intake structures for the protection of aquatic organisms. The proposed regulations would require existing large power plants and manufacturing facilities that withdraw greater than 25 percent of water from adjacent water bodies for cooling purposes and have a design intake flow of greater than 2 million gallons per day to limit the number of aquatic organisms that are killed when they are pinned against the facility's intake structure or that are drawn into the facility's cooling system. The Section 316(b) standards would be implemented through NPDES permits issued to the covered facilities. The Section 316(b) proposed rule comment period ended in August 2011. The EPA is obligated to finalize the rule by July 27, 2012. Minnesota Power is in the process of evaluating the potential impacts the proposed rule may have on its facilities. We are unable to predict the compliance cost we might incur; however, the costs could be material. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case. EPA Steam Electric Power Generating Effluent Guidelines. In late 2009, the EPA announced that it will be reviewing and reissuing the federal effluent guidelines for steam electric stations. These are the underlying federal water discharge rules that apply to all steam electric stations. The EPA has indicated that the new rule promulgating these guidelines will be proposed in 2012 and finalized in 2014. As part of the review phase for this new rule, the EPA issued an Information Collection Request (ICR) in June 2010, to most thermal electric generating stations in the country, including all five of Minnesota Power's generating stations. The ICR was completed and submitted to the EPA in September 2010 for Boswell, Laskin, Taconite Harbor, Hibbard, and Rapids Energy Center. The ICR was designed to gather extensive information on the nature and extent of all water discharge and related wastewater handling at power plants. The information gathered through the ICR will form a basis for development of the eventual new rule, which could include more restrictive requirements on wastewater discharge, flue gas desulfurization, and wet ash handling operations. We are unable to predict the costs we might incur to comply with potential future water discharge regulations at this time. Solid and Hazardous Waste. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 regulates the management and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes. We are required to notify the EPA of hazardous waste activity and, consequently, routinely submit the necessary reports to the EPA. Coal Ash Management Facilities. Minnesota Power generates coal ash at all five of its coal-fired electric generating facilities. Two facilities store ash in onsite impoundments (ash ponds) with engineered liners and containment dikes. Another facility stores dry ash in a landfill with an engineered liner and leachate collection system. Two facilities generate a combined wood and coal ash that is either land applied as an approved beneficial use or trucked to state permitted landfills. In June 2010, the EPA proposed regulations for coal combustion residuals generated by the electric utility sector. The proposal sought comments on three general regulatory schemes for coal ash. Comments on the proposed rule were due in November 2010. It is estimated that the final rule will be published in late 2012 or early 2013. We are unable to predict the compliance cost we might incur; however, the costs could be material. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case. Manufactured Gas Plant Site. We are reviewing and addressing environmental conditions at a former manufactured gas plant site in the City of Superior, Wisconsin, and formerly operated by SWL&P. We have been working with the WDNR to determine the extent of contamination and the remediation of contaminated locations. As of December 31, 2011, we have a $0.5 million liability for this site and a corresponding regulatory asset as we expect recovery of remediation costs to be allowed by the PSCW. Other Matters BNI Coal. As of December 31, 2011, BNI Coal had surety bonds outstanding of $29.8 million related to the reclamation liability for closing costs associated with its mine and mine facilities. Although the coal supply agreements obligate the customers to provide for the closing costs, additional assurance is required by federal and state regulations. In addition to the surety bonds, BNI Coal has secured a letter of credit with CoBANK ACB for an additional $2.6 million to provide for BNI Coal’s total reclamation liability currently estimated at $32.4 million. BNI Coal does not believe it is likely that any of these outstanding surety bonds will be drawn upon. ALLETE Properties. As of December 31, 2011, ALLETE Properties, through its subsidiaries, had surety bonds outstanding of $10.2 million primarily related to performance and maintenance obligations to governmental entities to construct improvements in the Company's various projects. The remaining work to be completed on these improvements is estimated to be approximately $8.0 million and ALLETE Properties does not believe it is likely that any of these outstanding surety bonds will be drawn upon. Community Development District Obligations. In March 2005, the Town Center District issued $26.4 million of tax-exempt, 6 percent capital improvement revenue bonds and in May 2006, the Palm Coast Park District issued $31.8 million of tax-exempt, 5.7 percent special assessment bonds. The capital improvement revenue bonds and the special assessment bonds are payable over 31 years (by May 1, 2036, and 2037, respectively) and secured by special assessments on the benefited land. The bond proceeds were used to pay for the construction of a portion of the major infrastructure improvements in each district and to mitigate traffic and environmental impacts. The assessments were billed to the landowners beginning in November 2006, for Town Center, and November 2007, for Palm Coast Park. To the extent that we still own land at the time of the assessment, we will incur the cost of our portion of these assessments, based upon our ownership of benefited property. At December 31, 2011, we owned 73 percent of the assessable land in the Town Center District (69 percent at December 31, 2010) and 93 percent of the assessable land in the Palm Coast Park District (93 percent at December 31, 2010). At these ownership levels, our annual assessments are $1.5 million for Town Center and $2.2 million for Palm Coast Park. As we sell property, the obligation to pay special assessments will pass to the new landowners. Under current accounting rules, these bonds are not reflected as debt on our consolidated balance sheet. Legal Proceedings. In January 2011, the Company was named as a defendant in a lawsuit in the Sixth Judicial District for the State of Minnesota by one of our customer’s (United Taconite, LLC) property and business interruption insurers. In October 2006, United Taconite experienced a fire as a result of the failure of certain electrical protective equipment. The equipment at issue in the incident was not owned, designed, or installed by Minnesota Power, but Minnesota Power had provided testing and calibration services related to the equipment. The lawsuit alleges approximately $20 million in damages related to the fire. The Company believes that it has strong defenses to the lawsuit and intends to vigorously assert such defenses. An accrual related to any damages that may result from the lawsuit has not been recorded as of December 31, 2011, because a potential loss is not currently probable; however, the Company believes it has adequate insurance coverage for potential loss. Other. We are involved in litigation arising in the normal course of business. Also in the normal course of business, we are involved in tax, regulatory and other governmental audits, inspections, investigations and other proceedings that involve state and federal taxes, safety, compliance with regulations, rate base and cost of service issues, among other things. While the resolution of such matters could have a material effect on earnings and cash flows in the year of resolution, none of these matters are expected to materially change our present liquidity position, or have a material adverse effect on our financial condition. |
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The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Common Stock and Earnings Per Share [Text Block] | Common Stock and Earnings Per Share
Equity Issuance Program. We entered into a distribution agreement with KCCI, Inc., in February 2008, as amended, with respect to the issuance and sale of up to an aggregate of 6.6 million shares of our common stock, without par value. For the year ended December 31, 2011, 0.4 million shares of common stock were issued under this agreement resulting in net proceeds of $16.0 million. During 2010, 0.2 million shares of common stock were issued for net proceeds of $6.0 million. As of December 31, 2011, approximately 2.7 million shares of common stock remain available for issuance pursuant to the amended distribution agreement. The shares issued in 2011 and 2010 were offered for sale, from time to time, in accordance with the terms of the amended distribution agreement pursuant to Registration Statement Nos. 333-170289 and 333-147965. The remaining shares may be offered for sale, from time to time, in accordance with the terms of the amended distribution agreement pursuant to Registration Statement No. 333-170289. Earnings Per Share. The difference between basic and diluted earnings per share, if any, arises from outstanding stock options, non-vested restricted stock, and performance share awards granted under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan and Director Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan. In 2011, in accordance with accounting standards for earnings per share, 0.3 million options to purchase shares of common stock were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the option exercise prices were greater than the average market prices, and therefore, their effect would be anti-dilutive (0.5 million shares were excluded for 2010 and 0.6 million in 2009). Purchase of Non-Controlling Interest. In the third quarter of 2011, the remaining shares of the ALLETE Properties non-controlling interest were purchased at book value for $8.8 million by issuing 0.2 million unregistered shares of ALLETE common stock. This was accounted for as an equity transaction, and no gain or loss is recognized in net income or comprehensive income. Contributions to Pension. On December 15, 2011, ALLETE contributed approximately 507,600 shares of ALLETE common stock to its pension plan. These shares of ALLETE common stock were contributed in reliance upon an exemption available pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 and had an aggregate value of $20.0 million when contributed. (See Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources.)
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The entire disclosure for earnings per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Other Income (Expense) [Text Block] | Other Income (Expense)
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The entire disclosure for other income or other expense items (both operating and nonoperating). Sources of nonoperating income or nonoperating expense that may be disclosed, include amounts earned from dividends, interest on securities, profits (losses) on securities, net and miscellaneous other income or income deductions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Tax Expense [Text Block] | Income Tax Expense
The effective tax rate on income was 27.6 percent for 2011 (37.2 percent for 2010; 33.7 percent for 2009). The 2011 effective tax rate was primarily impacted by deductions for AFUDC-Equity (included in Regulatory Differences for Utility Plant, above), renewable tax credits, the MPUC's approval of our request to defer the retail portion of the tax charge taken in 2010 as a result of PPACA, and the reversal of a deferred tax liability related to a revenue receivable that Minnesota Power agreed to forgo as part of a stipulation and settlement agreement in its 2010 rate case. The 2010 effective tax rate was primarily impacted by deductions for AFUDC-Equity (included in Regulatory Differences for Utility Plant, above), renewable tax credits and the impact of PPACA eliminating the tax deduction for expenses that are reimbursed under Medicare Part D. The 2009 effective tax rate was impacted by deductions for AFUDC-Equity (included in Regulatory Differences for Utility Plant, above) and wind production tax credits.
In 2011, we generated federal and various state NOLs and tax credit carryforwards primarily due to the bonus depreciation provisions of the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010. The 2011 federal NOL will be utilized by carrying it forward to offset future years' income. We expect to fully utilize the federal NOL and tax credit carryforwards; therefore a deferred tax asset has been recorded to recognize the resulting tax benefit.
The state NOLs and tax credits will be carried forward to future tax years. We have established a valuation allowance against certain state NOL and tax credits that we do not expect to utilize before their expiration. The federal NOL and tax credit carryforward periods expire between 2019 and 2031; included in the federal NOL carryforward is $3.0 million of charitable contributions carryforward which expire between 2014 and 2015. The state NOL and tax credit carryforward periods expire between 2024 and 2031; included in the state NOL carryforwards is $2.8 million of charitable contributions carryforward which expires between 2014 and 2015.
The gross unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2011, includes $0.6 million of net unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the annual effective income tax rate. As of December 31, 2011, we had $1.1 million ($0.7 million for 2010 and $0.9 million for 2009) of accrued interest related to unrecognized tax benefits included in the consolidated balance sheet. We classify interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as interest expense and tax-related penalties in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of income. In 2011, we recognized interest expense of $0.4 million (interest reduction of $0.2 million for 2010 and interest expense of $0.4 million for 2009). There were no penalties recognized for 2011, 2010 or 2009. We file a consolidated federal income tax return in the U.S. and state income tax returns in various jurisdictions. ALLETE is currently under examination by the IRS for the tax years 2005 through 2009. ALLETE is no longer subject to federal or state examination for years before 2005. During the next 12 months it is reasonably possible the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could be reduced by $5.0 million due to statute expirations and anticipated audit settlements. This amount is primarily due to timing issues. |
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The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] | Comprehensive Income (Loss)
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The entire disclosure for comprehensive income. Includes, but is not limited to, the following: 1) the amount of income tax expense or benefit allocated to each component of other comprehensive income, including reclassification adjustments, 2) the reclassification adjustments for each classification of other comprehensive income and 3) the ending accumulated balances for each component of comprehensive income. Components of comprehensive income include: (1) foreign currency translation adjustments; (2) gains (losses) on foreign currency transactions that are designated as, and are effective as, economic hedges of a net investment in a foreign entity; (3) gains (losses) on intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term-investment nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements; (4) change in the market value of a futures contract that qualifies as a hedge of an asset reported at fair value; (5) unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities and that resulting from transfers of debt securities from the held-to-maturity category to the available-for-sale category; (6) a net loss recognized as an additional pension liability not yet recognized as net periodic pension cost; and (7) the net gain (loss) and net prior service cost or credit for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Text Block] | Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans We have noncontributory union and non-union defined benefit pension plans covering eligible employees. The plans provide defined benefits based on years of service and final average pay. In 2011, we made total contributions of $33.8 million, of which $20.0 million was contributed in shares of ALLETE common stock (total contributions of $26.5 million in 2010). We also have a defined contribution pension plan covering substantially all employees. The 2011 plan year employer contributions, which are made through the employee stock ownership plan portion of the RSOP, totaled $7.3 million ($7.2 million for the 2010 plan year.) (See Note 12. Common Stock and Earnings Per Share and Note 17. Employee Stock and Incentive Plans). In 2006, the non-union defined benefit pension plan was amended to suspend further crediting of service to the plan and to close the plan to new participants. In conjunction with those amendments, contributions were increased to the RSOP. In 2010, the Minnesota Power union defined benefit pension plan was amended to close the plan to new participants beginning February 1, 2011. We have postretirement health care and life insurance plans covering eligible employees. In 2010, our postretirement health plan was amended to close the plan to employees hired after January 31, 2011. The full eligibility requirement was also amended in 2010, to age 55 with 10 years of participation in the plan. The postretirement health plans are contributory with participant contributions adjusted annually. Postretirement health and life benefits are funded through a combination of Voluntary Employee Benefit Association trusts (VEBAs), established under section 501(c)(9) of the Internal Revenue Code, and an irrevocable grantor trust. In 2011, $10.9 million was contributed to the VEBAs. In 2010, we contributed $12.8 million to the VEBAs. There were no contributions made to the grantor trust in 2011 and 2010. Management considers various factors when making funding decisions such as regulatory requirements, actuarially determined minimum contribution requirements, and contributions required to avoid benefit restrictions for the pension plans. Estimated defined benefit pension and postretirement health and life contributions for 2012 are expected to be $1.0 million and $13.9 million, respectively. Contributions are based on estimates and assumptions which are subject to change. Accounting for defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans requires that employers recognize on a prospective basis the funded status of their defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans on their consolidated balance sheet and recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. The defined benefit pension and postretirement health and life benefit costs recognized annually by our regulated companies are expected to be recovered through rates filed with our regulatory jurisdictions. As a result, these amounts that are required to otherwise be recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income have been recognized as a long-term regulatory asset on our consolidated balance sheet, in accordance with the accounting standards for Regulated Operations. The defined benefit pension and postretirement health and life benefit costs associated with our other non-rate base operations are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income.
The pension costs that are reported as a component within our consolidated balance sheet, reflected in long-term regulatory assets and accumulated other comprehensive income, consist of the following:
According to the accounting standards for retirement benefits, only assets in the VEBAs are treated as plan assets in the above table for the purpose of determining funded status. In addition to the postretirement health and life assets reported in the previous table, we had $20.3 million in irrevocable grantor trusts included in Other Investments on our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2011 ($19.8 million at December 31, 2010). The postretirement health and life costs that are reported as a component within our consolidated balance sheet, reflected in regulatory long-term assets and accumulated other comprehensive income, consist of the following:
The pension and postretirement health and life costs recorded in regulatory long-term assets and accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized as a component of net pension and postretirement benefit costs for the year ending December 31, 2012, are as follows:
(a) The expected long-term rate of return used to determine net periodic benefit expenses for 2012 has been reduced to 8.25 percent. In establishing the expected long-term return on plan assets, we take into account the actual long-term historical performance of our plan assets, the actual long-term historical performance for the type of securities we are invested in, and apply the historical performance utilizing the target allocation of our plan assets to forecast an expected long-term return. Our expected rate of return is then selected after considering the results of each of those factors, in addition to considering the impact of current economic conditions, if applicable, on long-term historical returns. The discount rate is computed using a yield curve adjusted for ALLETE’s projected cash flows to match our plan characteristics. The yield curve is determined using high-quality long-term corporate bond rates at the valuation date. We believe the adjusted discount curve used in this comparison does not materially differ in duration and cash flows from our pension obligation.
There was $20.0 million (approximately 507,600 shares) of ALLETE common stock included in pension plan equity securities at December 31, 2011 (none in 2010). To achieve strong returns within managed risk, we diversify our asset portfolio to approximate the target allocations in the table below. Equity securities are diversified among domestic companies with large, mid and small market capitalizations, as well as investments in international companies. The majority of debt securities are made up of investment grade bonds.
Fair Value 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). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows: Level 1 — Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date. Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. This category includes various U.S. equity securities, public mutual funds, and futures. These instruments are valued using the closing price from the applicable exchange or whose value is quoted and readily traded daily. Level 2 — Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, but are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reported date. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 2 are typically either comparable to actively traded securities or contracts, such as treasury securities with pricing interpolated from recent trades of similar securities, or priced with models using highly observable inputs. This category includes various bonds and non-public funds whose underlying investments may be level 1 or level 2 securities. Level 3 — Significant inputs that are generally less observable from objective sources. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 3 are those with inputs requiring significant management judgment or estimation, such as the complex and subjective models and forecasts used to determine the fair value. This category includes private equity funds and real estate valued through external appraisal processes. Valuation methodologies incorporate pricing models, discounted cash flow models, and similar techniques which utilize capitalization rates, discount rates, cash flows and other factors. Pension Fair Value
Postretirement Health and Life Fair Value
Accounting and disclosure requirements for the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (Act) provide guidance for employers that sponsor postretirement health care plans that provide prescription drug benefits. We provide postretirement health benefits that include prescription drug benefits, which qualify us for the federal subsidy under the Act. |
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for pension and other postretirement benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Employee Stock and Incentive Plans [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Employee Stock and Incentive Plans [Text Block] | Employee Stock and Incentive Plans Employee Stock Ownership Plan. We sponsor a leveraged ESOP within the RSOP. As of their date of hire, eligible employees may contribute to the RSOP plan. In 1990, the ESOP issued a $75.0 million note (term not to exceed 25 years at 10.25 percent) to use as consideration for 2.8 million shares (1.9 million shares adjusted for stock splits) of our newly issued common stock. The note was refinanced in 2006 at 6 percent. We make annual contributions to the ESOP equal to the ESOP’s debt service less available dividends received by the ESOP. The majority of dividends received by the ESOP are used to pay debt service, with the balance distributed to participants. The ESOP shares were initially pledged as collateral for its debt. As the debt is repaid, shares are released from collateral and allocated to participants based on the proportion of debt service paid in the year. As shares are released from collateral, we report compensation expense equal to the current market price of the shares less dividends on allocated shares. Dividends on allocated ESOP shares are recorded as a reduction of retained earnings; available dividends on unallocated ESOP shares are recorded as a reduction of debt and accrued interest. ESOP compensation expense was $7.4 million in 2011 ($7.1 million in 2010; $6.5 million in 2009). According to the accounting standards for stock compensation, unallocated shares of ALLETE common stock currently held and purchased by the ESOP will be treated as unearned ESOP shares and not considered outstanding for earnings per share computations. ESOP shares are included in earnings per share computations after they are allocated to participants.
Stock-Based Compensation. Stock Incentive Plan. Under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (Executive Plan), share-based awards may be issued to key employees through a broad range of methods, including non-qualified and incentive stock options, performance shares, performance units, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights and other awards. There are 1.3 million shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the Executive Plan, with 0.6 million of these shares available for issuance as of December 31, 2011. We had a Director Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan (Director Plan) which expired on January 1, 2006. No grants have been made since 2003 under the Director Plan. Approximately 1,293 options were outstanding under the Director Plan at December 31, 2011. We currently have the following types of share-based awards outstanding: Non-Qualified Stock Options. The options allow for the purchase of shares of common stock at a price equal to the market value of our common stock at the date of grant. Options become exercisable beginning one year after the grant date, with one-third vesting each year over three years. Options may be exercised up to ten years following the date of grant. In the case of qualified retirement, death or disability, options vest immediately and the period over which the options can be exercised is three years. Employees have up to three months to exercise vested options upon voluntary termination or involuntary termination without cause. All options are canceled upon termination for cause. All options vest immediately upon retirement, death, disability or a change of control, as defined in the award agreement. We determine the fair value of options using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The estimated fair value of options, including the effect of estimated forfeitures, is recognized as expense on the straight-line basis over the options’ vesting periods, or the accelerated vesting period if the employee is retirement eligible. Stock options have not been granted under our Executive Plan since 2008. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the grant date. Expected volatility is estimated based on the historic volatility of our stock and the stock of our peer group companies. We utilize historical option exercise and employee pre-vesting termination data to estimate the option life. The dividend growth rate is based upon historical growth rates in our dividends.
Performance Shares. Under the performance share awards plan, the number of shares earned is contingent upon attaining specific market goals over a three-year performance period. Market goals are measured by total shareholder return relative to a group of peer companies. In the case of qualified retirement, death or disability during a performance period, a pro rata portion of the award will be earned at the conclusion of the performance period based on the market goals achieved. In the case of termination of employment for any reason other than qualified retirement, death or disability, no award will be earned. If there is a change in control, a pro rata portion of the award will be paid based on the greater of actual performance up to the date of the change in control or target performance. The fair value of these awards is determined by the probability of meeting the total shareholder return goals. Compensation cost is recognized over the three-year performance period based on our estimate of the number of shares which will be earned by the award recipients. Restricted Stock Units. Under the restricted stock units plan, shares vest monthly over a three-year period. In the case of qualified retirement, death or disability, a pro rata portion of the award will be earned. In the case of termination of employment for any other reason other than qualified retirement, death or disability, no award will be earned. If there is a change in control, a pro rata portion of the award will be paid. The fair value of these awards is equal to the grant date fair value. Compensation cost is recognized over the three-year vesting period based on our estimate of the number of shares which will be earned by the award recipients. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP). Under our ESPP, eligible employees may purchase ALLETE common stock at a 5 percent discount from the market price. Because the discount is not greater than 5 percent, we are not required to apply fair value accounting to these awards. RSOP. The RSOP is a contributory defined contribution plan subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and qualifies as an employee stock ownership plan and profit sharing plan. The RSOP provides eligible employees an opportunity to save for retirement. The following share-based compensation expense amounts were recognized in our consolidated statement of income for the periods presented.
There were no capitalized stock-based compensation costs at December 31, 2011, 2010, or 2009. As of December 31, 2011, the total unrecognized compensation cost for the performance share awards and restricted stock units not yet recognized in our consolidated statements of income was $1.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively. These amounts are expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years and 1.6 years for performance share awards and restricted stock units, respectively. Non-Qualified Stock Options. The following table presents information regarding our outstanding stock options as of December 31, 2011.
Cash received from non-qualified stock options exercised was less than $0.1 million in 2011. The intrinsic value of a stock award is the amount by which the fair value of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the award. The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $0.5 million during 2011 ($0.3 million in 2010; $0.1 million in 2009).
Performance Shares. The following table presents information regarding our non-vested performance shares as of December 31, 2011.
(a) Shares granted includes accrued dividends. Less than 0.1 million performance shares were granted in January 2011 for the three-year performance period ending in 2013. The ultimate issuance is contingent upon the attainment of certain future market goals of ALLETE during the performance periods. The grant date fair value of the performance shares granted was $1.4 million. Less than 0.1 million performance shares were awarded in February 2011 for the three-year performance period ending in 2010. The grant date fair value of the shares awarded was $1.6 million. Less than 0.1 million performance shares were awarded in February 2012 for the three-year performance period ending in 2011. The grant date fair value of the shares awarded was $1.4 million.
Restricted Stock Units. The following table presents information regarding our available restricted stock units as of December 31, 2011.
(a) Shares granted includes accrued dividends. Less than 0.1 million restricted stock units were granted in January 2011 for the vesting period ending in 2013. The grant date fair value of the restricted stock units granted was $0.6 million. Less than 0.1 million restricted stock units were awarded in February 2011. The grant date fair value of the shares awarded was less than $0.1 million. Less than 0.1 million restricted stock units were awarded in February 2012. The grant date fair value of the shares awarded was $0.8 million. |
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| Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Text Block] | Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Information for any one quarterly period is not necessarily indicative of the results which may be expected for the year.
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| Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves [Text Block] | Schedule II ALLETE Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves
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The entire disclosure for any allowance and reserve accounts (their beginning and ending balances, as well as a reconciliation by type of activity during the period). Alternatively, disclosure of the required information may be within the footnotes to the financial statements or a supplemental schedule to the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
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| Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
| Principles of Consolidation [Policy Text Block] | Principles of Consolidation. Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of ALLETE and all of our majority-owned subsidiary companies. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents [Policy Text Block] | Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all investments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. |
| Accounts Receivable [Policy Text Block] | Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable are reported on the balance sheet net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance is based on our evaluation of the receivable portfolio under current conditions, overall portfolio quality, review of specific problems and such other factors that, in our judgment, deserve recognition in estimating losses. |
| Long-Term Finance Receivables [Policy Text Block] | Long-Term Finance Receivables. Long-term finance receivables relating to our real estate operations are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. We assess delinquent finance receivables by comparing the balance of such receivables to the estimated fair value of the collateralized property. If the fair value of the property is less than the finance receivable, we record a reserve for the difference. We estimate fair value based on recent property tax assessed values or current appraisals. (See Note 7. Investments.) Long-term finance receivables are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. |
| Available-for-sale Securities [Policy Text Block] | Available-for-Sale Securities. Available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. Unrealized losses that are other than temporary are recognized in earnings. We use the specific identification method as the basis for determining the cost of securities sold. Our policy is to review available-for-sale securities for other than temporary impairment on a quarterly basis by assessing such factors as the share price trends and the impact of overall market conditions. (See Note 7. Investments.) |
| Inventories [Policy Text Block] | Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventory are recorded on an average cost basis. |
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Policy Text Block] | Property, Plant and Equipment. Property, plant and equipment are recorded at original cost and are reported on the balance sheet net of accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for additions, significant replacements, improvements and major plant overhauls are capitalized; maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. Gains or losses on non-rate base property, plant and equipment are recognized when they are retired or otherwise disposed. When regulated utility property, plant and equipment are retired or otherwise disposed, no gain or loss is recognized in accordance with the accounting standards for Regulated Operations. Our Regulated Operations capitalize AFUDC, which includes both an interest and equity component. AFUDC represents the cost of both debt and equity funds used to finance utility plant additions during construction periods. AFUDC amounts capitalized are included in rate base and are recovered from customers as the related property is depreciated. The MPUC has approved current cost recovery for several large capital projects recently, resulting in lower recognition of AFUDC. (See Note 3. Property, Plant and Equipment.) Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the various classes of assets. |
| Long-Lived Asset Impairments [Policy Text Block] | Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. We review our long-lived assets for indicators of impairment in accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment on a quarterly basis. Long-lived assets that we evaluate include our real estate assets of ALLETE Properties. In accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment, if indicators of impairment exist, we test our real estate assets for recoverability by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to the undiscounted future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. Cash flows are assessed at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows, which may be by each land parcel, combining various parcels into bulk sales, or other combinations thereof. Our consideration of possible impairment for our real estate assets requires us to make estimates of future cash flows on an undiscounted basis. The undiscounted future net cash flows are impacted by trends and factors known to us at the time they are calculated and our expectations related to: management's best estimate of future sales prices; holding period and timing of sales; method of disposition; and future expenditures necessary to develop and maintain the operations, including community development district assessments, property taxes and normal operation and maintenance costs. These estimates and expectations are specific to each land parcel or various bulk sales, and may vary among each land parcel or bulk sale. If the excess of undiscounted cash flows over the carrying value of a property is small, there is a greater risk of future impairment in the event of such changes and any resulting impairment charges could be material. |
| Derivatives [Policy Text Block] | Derivatives. ALLETE is exposed to certain risks relating to its business operations that can be managed through the use of derivative instruments. ALLETE may enter into derivative instruments to manage interest rate risk related to certain variable-rate borrowings. |
| Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation [Policy Text Block] | Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. We apply the fair value recognition guidance for share-based payments. Under this guidance, we recognize stock-based compensation expense for all share-based payments granted, net of an estimated forfeiture rate. (See Note 17. Employee Stock and Incentive Plans.) |
| Environmental Liabilities [Policy Text Block] | Environmental Liabilities. We review environmental matters for disclosure 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. These accruals are adjusted periodically as assessment and remediation efforts progress or as additional technical or legal information becomes available. Accruals for environmental liabilities are included in the 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 operating expense unless recoverable in rates from customers. (See Note 11. Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies.) |
| Revenue Recognition [Policy Text Block] | Revenue Recognition. Regulated utility rates are under the jurisdiction of Minnesota, Wisconsin and federal regulatory authorities. Customers are billed on a cycle basis. Revenue is accrued for service provided but not billed. Regulated utility electric rates include adjustment clauses that: (1) bill or credit customers for fuel and purchased energy costs above or below the base levels in rate schedules; (2) bill retail customers for the recovery of conservation improvement program expenditures not collected in base rates; and (3) bill customers for the recovery of certain transmission and renewable energy expenditures. Fuel and purchased power expense is deferred to match the period in which the revenue for fuel and purchased power expense is collected from customers pursuant to the fuel adjustment clause. BNI recognizes revenue when coal is delivered. |
| Unamortized Discount and Premium on Debt [Policy Text Block] | Unamortized Discount and Premium on Debt. Discount and premium on debt are deferred and amortized over the terms of the related debt instruments using the straight-line method. |
| Income Taxes [Policy Text Block] | Income Taxes. We file a consolidated federal income tax return. We account for income taxes using the liability method in accordance with the accounting standards for income taxes. Under the liability method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are established for all temporary differences in the book and tax basis of assets and liabilities, based upon enacted tax laws and rates applicable to the periods in which the taxes become payable. Due to the effects of regulation on Minnesota Power and SWL&P, certain adjustments made to deferred income taxes are, in turn, recorded as regulatory assets or liabilities. Federal investment tax credits have been recorded as deferred credits and are being amortized to income tax expense over the service lives of the related property. In accordance with the accounting standards for uncertainty in income taxes, we are required to recognize in our financial statements the largest tax benefit of a tax position that is “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained on audit, based solely on the technical merits of the position as of the reporting date. The term “more-likely-than-not” means more than 50 percent likely. (See Note 14. Income Tax Expense.) |
| Excise Taxes [Policy Text Block] | Excise Taxes. We collect excise taxes from our customers levied by government entities. These taxes are stated separately on the billing to the customer and recorded as a liability to be remitted to the government entity. We account for the collection and payment of these taxes on a net basis. |
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Policy regarding the collection and recording of excise taxes. No definition available.
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Method of amortization used for unamortized discounts and premiums related to debt instruments. No definition available.
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Disclosure of accounting policy for cash and cash equivalents, including the policy for determining which items are treated as cash equivalents. Other information that may be disclosed includes (1) the nature of any restrictions on the entity's use of its cash and cash equivalents, (2) whether the entity's cash and cash equivalents are insured or expose the entity to credit risk, (3) the classification of any negative balance accounts (overdrafts), and (4) the carrying basis of cash equivalents (for example, at cost) and whether the carrying amount of cash equivalents approximates fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy regarding (1) the principles it follows in consolidating or combining the separate financial statements, including the principles followed in determining the inclusion or exclusion of subsidiaries or other entities in the consolidated or combined financial statements and (2) its treatment of interests (for example, common stock, a partnership interest or other means of exerting influence) in other entities, for example consolidation or use of the equity or cost methods of accounting. The accounting policy may also address the accounting treatment for intercompany accounts and transactions, noncontrolling interest, and the income statement treatment in consolidation for issuances of stock by a subsidiary. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for its derivative instruments and hedging activities. Disclosure may include: (1) Each method used to account for derivative financial instruments and derivative commodity instruments ("derivatives"); (2) the types of derivatives accounted for under each method; (3) the criteria required to be met for each accounting method used, including a discussion of the criteria required to be met for hedge or deferral accounting and accrual or settlement accounting (for example, whether and how risk reduction, correlation, designation, and effectiveness tests are applied); (4) the accounting method used if the criteria specified for hedge accounting are not met; (5) the method used to account for termination of derivatives designated as hedges or derivatives used to affect directly or indirectly the terms, fair values, or cash flows of a designated item; (6) the method used to account for derivatives when the designated item matures, is sold, is extinguished, or is terminated. In addition, the method used to account for derivatives designated to an anticipated transaction, when the anticipated transaction is no longer likely to occur; and (7) where and when derivatives, and their related gains or losses are reported in the statement of financial position, cash flows, and results of operations and (8) an accounting policy decision to offset fair value amounts with counterparties. An entity may also describe its embedded derivatives, and the method(s) used to determine the fair values of derivatives and any significant assumptions used in such valuations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for obligations that resulted from improper or other-than normal operation of a long-lived asset in the past. This accounting policy may address (1) whether the related remediation costs are expensed or capitalized, (2) whether the obligation is measured on a discounted basis, (3) the event, situation, or set of circumstances that generally triggers recognition of loss contingencies arising from the entity's environmental remediation-related obligations, and (4) the timing of recognition of any recoveries. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for finance, loan and lease receivables, including those held for investment and those held for sale. This disclosure may include (1) the basis at which such receivables are carried in the entity's statements of financial position (2) how the level of the allowance for loan and lease losses is determined (3) when impairments, charge-offs or recoveries are recognized for such receivables (4) the treatment of origination fees and costs, including the amortization method for net deferred fees or costs (5) the treatment of any premiums or discounts or unearned income (6) the entity's income recognition (revenues, expenses and gains and losses arising from committing to issue, issuing, granting, collecting, terminating, modifying and holding loans) policies for such receivables, including those that are impaired, past due or placed on nonaccrual status and (7) the treatment of foreclosures or repossessions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for recognizing and measuring the impairment of long-lived assets. An entity also may disclose its accounting policy for long-lived assets to be sold. This policy excludes goodwill and intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for income taxes, which may include its accounting policies for recognizing and measuring deferred tax assets and liabilities and related valuation allowances, recognizing investment tax credits, operating loss carryforwards, tax credit carryforwards, and other carryforwards, methodologies for determining its effective income tax rate and the characterization of interest and penalties in the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for major classes of inventories, bases of stating inventories (for example, lower of cost or market), methods by which amounts are added and removed from inventory classes (for example, FIFO, LIFO, or average cost), loss recognition on impairment of inventories, and situations in which inventories are stated above cost. If inventory is carried at cost, this disclosure includes the nature of the cost elements included in inventory. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for investments in debt and equity securities that are classified as available-for-sale. This policy also may describe the entity's accounting treatment for transfers between investment categories, how the entity determines whether impairments of available-for-sale securities are other than temporary, and how the fair values of such securities are determined. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for property, plant and equipment which may include the basis of such assets, depreciation methods used and estimated useful lives, the entity's capitalization policy, including its accounting treatment for costs incurred for repairs and maintenance activities, whether such asset balances include capitalized interest and the method by which such is calculated, how disposals of such assets are accounted for and how impairment of such assets is assessed and recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for revenue recognition. If the entity has different policies for different types of revenue transactions, the policy for each material type of transaction is generally disclosed. If a sales transaction has multiple element arrangements (for example, delivery of multiple products, services or the rights to use assets) the disclosure may indicate the accounting policy for each unit of accounting as well as how units of accounting are determined and valued. The disclosure may encompass important judgment as to appropriateness of principles related to recognition of revenue. The disclosure also may indicate the entity's treatment of any unearned or deferred revenue that arises from the transaction. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for stock option and stock incentive plans. This disclosure may include (1) the types of stock option or incentive plans sponsored by the entity (2) the groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) significant plan provisions and (4) how stock compensation is measured, and the methodologies and significant assumptions used to determine that measurement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for trade and other accounts receivables. This disclosure may include the basis at which such receivables are carried in the entity's statements of financial position (for example, net realizable value), how the entity determines the level of its allowance for doubtful accounts, when impairments, charge-offs or recoveries are recognized, and the entity's income recognition policies for such receivables, including its treatment of related fees and costs, its treatment of premiums, discounts or unearned income, when accrual of interest is discontinued, how the entity records payments received on nonaccrual receivables and its policy for resuming accrual of interest on such receivables. If the enterprise holds a large number of similar loans, disclosure may include the accounting policy for the anticipation of prepayments and significant assumptions underlying prepayment estimates for amortization of premiums, discounts, and nonrefundable fees and costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Property, Plant and Equipment (Policies)
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12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] | |
| Depreciation [Policy Text Block] | Property, Plant and Equipment. Property, plant and equipment are recorded at original cost and are reported on the balance sheet net of accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for additions, significant replacements, improvements and major plant overhauls are capitalized; maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. Gains or losses on non-rate base property, plant and equipment are recognized when they are retired or otherwise disposed. When regulated utility property, plant and equipment are retired or otherwise disposed, no gain or loss is recognized in accordance with the accounting standards for Regulated Operations. Our Regulated Operations capitalize AFUDC, which includes both an interest and equity component. AFUDC represents the cost of both debt and equity funds used to finance utility plant additions during construction periods. AFUDC amounts capitalized are included in rate base and are recovered from customers as the related property is depreciated. The MPUC has approved current cost recovery for several large capital projects recently, resulting in lower recognition of AFUDC. (See Note 3. Property, Plant and Equipment.) Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the various classes of assets. |
| Asset Retirement Obligations [Policy Text Block] | Asset Retirement Obligations. We recognize, at fair value, obligations associated with the retirement of certain tangible, long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction or development and/or normal operation of the asset. |
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for determining amounts to accrue and charge against earnings so as to satisfy legal obligations associated with the retirement (through sale, abandonment, recycling, or disposal in some other manner) of a tangible long-lived asset that result from the acquisition, construction, or development and (or) the normal operation of a long-lived asset. This accounting policy disclosure excludes obligations arising 1) in connection with leased property, whether imposed by a lease agreement or by a party other than the lessor, that meet the definition of either minimum lease payments or contingent rentals; 2) solely from a plan to sell or otherwise dispose of a long-lived asset and 3) from certain environmental remediation liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for property, plant and equipment which may include the basis of such assets, depreciation methods used and estimated useful lives, the entity's capitalization policy, including its accounting treatment for costs incurred for repairs and maintenance activities, whether such asset balances include capitalized interest and the method by which such is calculated, how disposals of such assets are accounted for and how impairment of such assets is assessed and recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Regulatory Matters (Policies)
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12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Regulatory Matters [Abstract] | |
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Policy Text Block] | Our regulated utility operations are subject to the accounting standards on Regulated Operations. We capitalize, as regulatory assets, incurred costs which are probable of recovery in future utility rates. Regulatory liabilities represent amounts expected to be refunded or credited to customers in rates. |
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for public utilities. Examples include a discussion about the scope criteria and appropriateness for and extent of the application of generally accepted accounting principles related to accounting for the effects of certain types of regulation (may include identification of specific business units). Other examples of the disclosures may include: descriptions of the form and economic effects of regulation (for example, but not limited to, recording of regulatory assets and liabilities to the rate setting process); statement about periodic assessments of periodic assessments of generally accepted accounting principles related to accounting for the effects of certain types of regulation; information regarding amortization of and return on regulatory assets and liabilities, including the remaining amounts and recovery or settlement periods; accounting for changes to recovery estimates; AFUDC, plant abandonment's and plant disallowances. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Investments (Policies)
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12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Investments [Abstract] | |
| Land Held-for-Sale [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 impairment on a quarterly basis. |
| Long-Term Finance Receivables [Policy Text Block] | Long-Term Finance Receivables. Long-term finance receivables relating to our real estate operations are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. We assess delinquent finance receivables by comparing the balance of such receivables to the estimated fair value of the collateralized property. If the fair value of the property is less than the finance receivable, we record a reserve for the difference. We estimate fair value based on recent property tax assessed values or current appraisals. (See Note 7. Investments.) Long-term finance receivables are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. |
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for finance, loan and lease receivables, including those held for investment and those held for sale. This disclosure may include (1) the basis at which such receivables are carried in the entity's statements of financial position (2) how the level of the allowance for loan and lease losses is determined (3) when impairments, charge-offs or recoveries are recognized for such receivables (4) the treatment of origination fees and costs, including the amortization method for net deferred fees or costs (5) the treatment of any premiums or discounts or unearned income (6) the entity's income recognition (revenues, expenses and gains and losses arising from committing to issue, issuing, granting, collecting, terminating, modifying and holding loans) policies for such receivables, including those that are impaired, past due or placed on nonaccrual status and (7) the treatment of foreclosures or repossessions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for real estate held for development or sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Fair Value (Policies)
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12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
| Fair Value Transfers [Policy Text Block] | The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers in and transfers out as of the actual date of the event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer. |
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for determining when transfers between levels are recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Policies)
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12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract] | |
| Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Accounting for defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans requires that employers recognize on a prospective basis the funded status of their defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans on their consolidated balance sheet and recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. The defined benefit pension and postretirement health and life benefit costs recognized annually by our regulated companies are expected to be recovered through rates filed with our regulatory jurisdictions. As a result, these amounts that are required to otherwise be recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income have been recognized as a long-term regulatory asset on our consolidated balance sheet, in accordance with the accounting standards for Regulated Operations. The defined benefit pension and postretirement health and life benefit costs associated with our other non-rate base operations are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. |
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for pension and other postretirement benefit plans. This accounting policy may address (1) the types of plans sponsored by the entity, and the benefits provided by each plan (2) groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) how plan assets, liabilities and expenses are measured, including the use of any actuaries and (4) significant assumptions used by the entity to value plan assets and liabilities and how such assumptions are derived. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Employee Stock and Incentive Plans (Policies)
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12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Employee Stock and Incentive Plans [Abstract] | |
| Executive Option and Incentive Plans [Policy Text Block] | Stock Incentive Plan. Under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (Executive Plan), share-based awards may be issued to key employees through a broad range of methods, including non-qualified and incentive stock options, performance shares, performance units, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights and other awards. |
| Employee Stock Ownership Plan [Policy Text Block] | According to the accounting standards for stock compensation, unallocated shares of ALLETE common stock currently held and purchased by the ESOP will be treated as unearned ESOP shares and not considered outstanding for earnings per share computations. ESOP shares are included in earnings per share computations after they are allocated to participants. |
| Performance Shares, RSU's, ESPP, and RSOP [Policy Text Block] | Performance Shares. Under the performance share awards plan, the number of shares earned is contingent upon attaining specific market goals over a three-year performance period. Market goals are measured by total shareholder return relative to a group of peer companies. In the case of qualified retirement, death or disability during a performance period, a pro rata portion of the award will be earned at the conclusion of the performance period based on the market goals achieved. In the case of termination of employment for any reason other than qualified retirement, death or disability, no award will be earned. If there is a change in control, a pro rata portion of the award will be paid based on the greater of actual performance up to the date of the change in control or target performance. The fair value of these awards is determined by the probability of meeting the total shareholder return goals. Compensation cost is recognized over the three-year performance period based on our estimate of the number of shares which will be earned by the award recipients. Restricted Stock Units. Under the restricted stock units plan, shares vest monthly over a three-year period. In the case of qualified retirement, death or disability, a pro rata portion of the award will be earned. In the case of termination of employment for any other reason other than qualified retirement, death or disability, no award will be earned. If there is a change in control, a pro rata portion of the award will be paid. The fair value of these awards is equal to the grant date fair value. Compensation cost is recognized over the three-year vesting period based on our estimate of the number of shares which will be earned by the award recipients. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP). Under our ESPP, eligible employees may purchase ALLETE common stock at a 5 percent discount from the market price. Because the discount is not greater than 5 percent, we are not required to apply fair value accounting to these awards. RSOP. The RSOP is a contributory defined contribution plan subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and qualifies as an employee stock ownership plan and profit sharing plan. The RSOP provides eligible employees an opportunity to save for retirement. |
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- Definition
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Policy [Policy Text Block] No definition available.
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- Definition
Stock-Based Compensation, Executive Option and Incentive Plans [Policy Text Block] No definition available.
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for ESOP transactions, including the method of measuring compensation, the classification of dividends on ESOP shares, and the treatment of ESOP shares for EPS computations. If the employer has both old ESOP shares for which it does not adopt new guidance and new ESOP shares for which new guidance is required, these disclosures are required for both blocks of shares. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Supplemental Statement of Cash Flow Information [Table Text Block] | Supplemental Statement of Cash Flow Information
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| Accounts Receivable [Table Text Block] |
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| Inventories [Table Text Block] |
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| Prepayments and Other Current Assets [Table Text Block] |
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| Other Liabilities [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the various types of trade accounts and notes receivable and for each the gross carrying value, allowance, and net carrying value as of the balance sheet date. Presentation is categorized by current, noncurrent and unclassified receivables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of supplemental cash flow information for the periods presented. No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise, goods, commodities, or supplies held for future sale or to be used in manufacturing, servicing or production process. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of other assets and other liabilities not separately disclosed on the balance sheet. No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the carrying amounts of other assets. No definition available.
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Business Segments (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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Dec. 31, 2010
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Dec. 31, 2009
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| Business Segments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Segments [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the profit or loss and total assets for each reportable segment. An entity discloses certain information on each reportable segment if the amounts (a) are included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) are otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or loss. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Property, Plant, and Equipment [Table Text Block] |
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| Estimated Useful Lives of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the useful life and salvage value of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the changes in carrying amount of a liability for asset retirement obligations, for changes such as new obligations, changes in estimates of existing obligations, spending on existing obligations, property dispositions, and foreign currency translation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of public utility property plant and equipment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Jointly-Owned Electric Facility (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Jointly Owned Electric Facility [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of proportionate interests in jointly owned utility plants. Includes the amount of plants in service, the accumulated provision for depreciation (if available), the amount of plants under construction, and the proportionate share. The amounts presented may be further subdivided to show amounts applicable to plant subcategories (for example, production, transmission, distribution). Includes statements that the amounts represent the utility's share in each joint plant and that it must provide its own financing. Information concerning two or more generating plants on the same site may be combined. States that the utility's share of direct expenses of the joint plants is included in the corresponding operating expenses on its income statement (for example, fuel, maintenance of plant, other operating expense). If the share of direct expenses is charged to purchased power, then disclose the amount so charged and the proportionate amounts charged to specific operating expenses on the records maintained for the joint plants. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Regulatory Matters (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Regulatory Matters [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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- Details
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for detailed information about regulatory assets and liabilities, including current and noncurrent assets created when regulatory agencies permit the deferral of costs to the balance sheet that would otherwise be required to appear on the company's income statement and would be charged against current expenses or revenues, as well as current and noncurrent liabilities created when regulatory agencies permit. No definition available.
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Investment in ATC (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Investment in ATC [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ALLETE's Interest in ATC [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of summarized financial data reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
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- Details
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of equity method investments in common stock. The disclosure may include: (a) the name of each investee or group of investments for which combined disclosure is appropriate, (2) the percentage ownership of common stock, (3) the difference, if any, between the carrying amount of an investment and the value of the underlying equity in the net assets and the accounting treatment of difference, if any, and (4) the aggregate value of each identified investment based on its quoted market price, if available. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Investments (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Investments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Investments and ALLETE Properties [Table Text Block] |
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| Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block] |
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| Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
A table of investments, shown as a text block. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of available-for-sale securities which consist of all investments in certain debt and equity securities neither classified as trading or held-to-maturity securities. A debt security represents a creditor relationship with an enterprise. Debt securities include, among other items, US Treasury securities, US government securities, municipal securities, corporate bonds, convertible debt, commercial paper, and all securitized debt instruments. An equity security represents an ownership interest in an enterprise or the right to acquire or dispose of an ownership interest in an enterprise at fixed or determinable prices. Equity securities include, among other things, common stock, certain preferred stock, warrant rights, call options, and put options, but do not include convertible debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of available-for-sale securities from cost basis to fair value. No definition available.
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Fair Value (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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Dec. 31, 2010
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| Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Table Text Block] |
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| Recurring Fair Value Measures Activity in Level 3 [Table Text Block] |
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| Financial Instruments [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income, and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs), by class of asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments, assets, and liabilities. Such certain disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate) and (2) the methodology and assumptions used in developing such estimates of fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Long-term Debt, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of long-debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. These are debt arrangements that originally required repayment more than twelve months after issuance or greater than the normal operating cycle of the entity, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Common Stock and Earnings Per Share (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Common Stock and Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Summary of Common Stock [Table Text Block] |
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| Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] |
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Tabular disclosure of an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share calculations. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of an entity's stock, including par or stated value per share, number and dollar amount of share subscriptions, shares authorized, shares issued, shares outstanding, number and dollar amount of shares held in an employee trust, dividend per share, total dividends, share conversion features, par value plus additional paid in capital, the value of treasury stock and other information necessary to a fair presentation, and EPS information. Stock by class includes common, convertible, and preferred stocks which are not redeemable or redeemable solely at the option of the issuer. Includes preferred stock with redemption features that are solely within the control of the issuer and mandatorily redeemable stock if redemption is required to occur only upon liquidation or termination of the reporting entity. If more than one issue is outstanding, state the title of each issue and the corresponding dollar amount; dollar amount of any shares subscribed but unissued and the deduction of subscriptions receivable there from; number of shares authorized, issued, and outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Other Income (Expense) (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the components of non-operating income or non-operating expense that may include amounts earned from dividends, interest on securities, gains (losses) on securities sold, equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, net gain (loss) on sales of business, interest expense and other miscellaneous income or expense items. No definition available.
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Income Tax Expense (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Tax Expense [Table Text Block] |
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| Reconciliation of Taxes from Federal Statutory Rate to Total Income Tax Expense [Table Text Block] |
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| Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] |
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| NOL and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Table Text Block] |
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| Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Table Text Block] |
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Summary of Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the components of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations for each year presented including, but not limited to: current tax expense (benefit), deferred tax expense (benefit), investment tax credits, government grants, the benefits of operating loss carryforwards, tax expense that results from allocating certain tax benefits either directly to contributed capital or to reduce goodwill or other noncurrent intangible assets of an acquired entity, adjustments of a deferred tax liability or asset for enacted changes in tax laws or rates or a change in the tax status of the entity, and adjustments of the beginning-of-the-year balances of a valuation allowance because of a change in circumstances that causes a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset in future years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Tabular disclosure of the components of net deferred tax asset or liability recognized in an entity's statement of financial position, including the following: the total of all deferred tax liabilities, the total of all deferred tax assets, the total valuation allowance recognized for deferred tax assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation using percentage or dollar amounts of the reported amount of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations for the year to the amount of income tax expense that would result from applying domestic federal statutory tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of tax positions taken in the tax returns filed or to be filed for which it is more likely than not that the tax position will not be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities (i.e., uncertain tax positions) and other types of income tax contingencies, including: (1) the policy on classification of interest and penalties; (2) a tabular reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning and end of the period; the total amount(s) of: (3) unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate, and (4) interest and penalties recognized in each of the income statement and balance sheet; (5) for positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts unrecognized will significantly change within 12 months of the reporting date the: (i) nature of the uncertainty, (ii) nature of the event that could occur that would cause the change, and (iii) an estimate of the range of the reasonably possible change or a statement that an estimate of the range cannot be made; and (6) a description of tax years that remain subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Comprehensive Income (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] |
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| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] |
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Tabular disclosure of the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of components of comprehensive income (loss) including, but not limited to: (a) foreign currency translation adjustments; (b) gains (losses) on foreign currency transactions that are designated as, and are effective as, economic hedges of a net investment in a foreign entity; (c) gains (losses) on intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term-investment nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements; (d) change in the market value of a futures contract that qualifies as a hedge of an asset reported at fair value; (e) unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities and that resulting from transfers of debt securities from the held-to-maturity category to the available-for-sale category; (f) a net loss recognized as an additional pension liability not yet recognized as net periodic pension cost; and (g) the net gain (loss) and net prior service cost or credit for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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Dec. 31, 2010
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| Estimated Future Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] |
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| Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Costs Recorded in Other Long-Term Assets and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Expected to be Recognized over the Next Fiscal Year [Table Text Block] | The pension and postretirement health and life costs recorded in regulatory long-term assets and accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized as a component of net pension and postretirement benefit costs for the year ending December 31, 2012, are as follows:
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| Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation and Net Periodic Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] |
(a) The expected long-term rate of return used to determine net periodic benefit expenses for 2012 has been reduced to 8.25 percent. |
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| Sensitivity of a One-Percentage-Point Change in Health Care Trend Rates [Table Text Block] |
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| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Table Text Block] |
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| Plan Asset Target Allocations [Table Text Block] |
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| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Table Text Block] |
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| Activity in Level 3 [Table Text Block] |
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Pension [Member]
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| Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Obligation and Funded Status [Table Text Block] |
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| Unrecognized Pension and Other Postretirement Costs [Table Text Block] | The pension costs that are reported as a component within our consolidated balance sheet, reflected in long-term regulatory assets and accumulated other comprehensive income, consist of the following:
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| Components of Net Periodic Expense [Table Text Block] |
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| Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income and Regulatory Assets [Table Text Block] |
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| Information for Pension Plans with an Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] |
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| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Table Text Block] |
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| Activity in Level 3 [Table Text Block] |
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Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
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| Obligation and Funded Status [Table Text Block] |
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| Unrecognized Pension and Other Postretirement Costs [Table Text Block] | The postretirement health and life costs that are reported as a component within our consolidated balance sheet, reflected in regulatory long-term assets and accumulated other comprehensive income, consist of the following:
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| Components of Net Periodic Expense [Table Text Block] |
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| Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income and Regulatory Assets [Table Text Block] |
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| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Table Text Block] |
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| Activity in Level 3 [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Table Text Block] No definition available.
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- Definition
Schedule of Pension Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income and Regulatory Assets [Table Text Block] No definition available.
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- Definition
The components of unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost, including net loss, prior service costs [Table Text Block] No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income, and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs), by class of asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of accumulated benefit obligations and fair values of plan assets of pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans where the accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the major categories of plan assets of pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans. This information may include, but is not limited to, the target allocation of plan assets, the fair value of each major category of plan assets, and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the amounts related to pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year, including the net gain (loss), net prior service cost or credit, and net transition asset or obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the assumptions used to determine for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans the benefit obligation and net benefit cost, including assumed discount rates, rate increase in compensation increase, and expected long-term rates of return on plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the effect of a one-percentage-point increase and the effect of a one-percentage-point decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rates on the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement health care benefit costs and the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for health care benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of benefits expected to be paid by pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans in each of the next five fiscal years and in the aggregate for the five fiscal years thereafter. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the components of net benefit costs for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans including service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) recognized due to settlements or curtailments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of net funded status of pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Employee Stock and Incentive Plans (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Employee Stock and Incentive Plans [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Employee Stock Ownership Plan [Table Text Block] |
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| Share-Based Compensation Expense [Table Text Block] |
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| Non-Qualified Stock Options [Table Text Block] |
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| Stock Options, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] |
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| Non-Vested Performance Shares [Table Text Block] |
(a) Shares granted includes accrued dividends. |
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| Restricted Stock Units [Table Text Block] |
(a) Shares granted includes accrued dividends. |
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Tabular disclosure of the amount of total share-based compensation cost, including the amounts attributable to each share-based compensation plan and any related tax benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the description of the plan, the basis for determining contributions, including the employee groups covered, and the nature and effect of significant matters affecting comparability of information for all periods presented. For leveraged ESOPs and pension reversion ESOPs, the disclosure may include the basis for releasing shares and how dividends on allocated and unallocated shares are used. Disclosure may also include a description of the accounting policies followed for ESOP transactions, including the method of measuring compensation, the classification of dividends on ESOP shares, and the treatment of ESOP shares for EPS computations. If the employer has both old ESOP shares for which it does not adopt the latest guidance and new ESOP shares for which the new guidance is required, the accounting policies for both blocks of shares may be described. Disclosure may also include he amount of compensation cost recognized during the period, the number of allocated shares, committed-to-be-released shares, and suspense shares held by the ESOP at the balance-sheet date, the fair value of unearned ESOP shares at the balance-sheet date for shares accounted for under the latest guidance, the existence and nature of any repurchase obligation, including disclosure of the fair value of the shares allocated as of the balance sheet date, which are subject to a repurchase obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the changes in outstanding nonvested performance-based units. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of the number and weighted-average grant date fair value for restricted stock and restricted stock units that were outstanding at the beginning and end of the year, and the number of restricted stock and restricted stock units that were granted, vested, or forfeited during the year. No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of option exercise prices, by grouped ranges, including the upper and lower limits of the price range, the number of shares under option, weighted average exercise price and remaining contractual option terms. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the number and weighted-average exercise prices (or conversion ratios) for share options (or share units) that were outstanding at the beginning and end of the year, vested and expected to vest, exercisable or convertible at the end of the year, and the number of share options or share units that were granted, exercised or converted, forfeited, and expired during the year. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Table Text Block] |
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Tabular disclosure of the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure includes financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income (loss) before extraordinary items and cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle and earnings per share data. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Gross Trade Accounts Receivable, Billed No definition available.
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The percentage guideline to determine more-likely-than-not status No definition available.
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- Definition
number of customers (in ones) No definition available.
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- Definition
Remaining Cost Basis, Impaired Asset No definition available.
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- Definition
Number of shares of stock issued during the period to purchase non-controlling interest. No definition available.
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- Definition
Total Trade Accounts Receivable, Net of allowance for doubtful accounts. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The carrying amount of a liability for an asset retirement obligation. An asset retirement obligation is a legal obligation associated with the disposal or retirement of a tangible long-lived asset that results from the acquisition, construction or development, or the normal operations of a long-lived asset, except for certain obligations of lessees. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Future cash outflow to pay for purchases of fixed assets that have occurred. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of property contributed in noncash investing and financing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The current portion of money or property received from customers which is either to be returned upon satisfactory contract completion or applied to customer receivables in accordance with the terms of the contract or the understandings. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized fuel costs of a regulated entity that are expected to be recoverable through rate adjustments within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of coal, which is a combustible rock or minerals which are extracted from the ground and used as fuel. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount by which the fair value of an investment is less than the amortized cost basis or carrying amount of that investment at the balance sheet date and the decline in fair value is deemed to be other than temporary, before considering whether or not such amount is recognized in earnings or other comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid during the current period to foreign, federal, state, and local authorities as taxes on income, net of any cash received during the current period as refunds for the overpayment of taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of income taxes previously overpaid to tax authorities (such as U.S. Federal, state and local tax authorities) representing refunds of overpayments or recoveries based on agreed-upon resolutions of disputes. Also called income tax refund receivable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the capitalized cost of equity (based on assumed rate of return) and / or borrowed funds (based on interest rate) used to finance construction of regulated assets, which is expected to be recovered through rate adjustments. As a result of this capitalization, net income is increased. This element pertains to certain regulated industries, such as public utilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid for interest during the period net of cash paid for interest that is capitalized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregated amount of unprocessed materials to be used in manufacturing or production process and supplies that will be consumed. This amount is net of valuation reserves and adjustments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Decrease in noncontrolling interest (for example, but not limited to, redeeming or purchasing the interests of noncontrolling shareholders, issuance of shares (interests) by the non-wholly owned subsidiary to the parent entity for other than cash, and a buyback of shares (interest) by the non-wholly owned subsidiary from the noncontrolling interests). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred through that date and payable arising from transactions not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The noncurrent portion (due beyond one year or one operating cycle) of other accrued expenses (expenses incurred at the end of the reporting period but not yet paid) not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of current assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered and of liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and the aggregate carrying amount of current assets, as of the balance sheet date, not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount due for services rendered or products shipped, but not yet billed, recognized in conformity with revenue recognition criteria. This element is distinct from unbilled contracts receivables because this is based on noncontract transactions. No definition available.
|
|
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Concentraion of Credit Risk (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Customer Information [Line Items] | |||
| LP Major Customer, Percent of Total Revenue | 12.80% | 12.50% | 8.00% |
| NewPage Bankruptcy Pre-Petition Receivable | $ 3.2 | ||
|
Large Power Customer [Member]
|
|||
| Customer Information [Line Items] | |||
| Number of Customers | 10 | ||
| Accounts Receivable | $ 9.3 | $ 17.3 | |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Entity-wide Revenue, Major Customer, Percent of Total Revenue No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
number of customers (in ones) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For unclassified balance sheet, amounts due from customers or clients for goods or services that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate dollar amount of claims under review by the management of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies- Investments (Details)
|
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Line Items] | |
| Real Estate Sales Revenue Recognition, Minimum Contract Price Cash Collections Requirement | 20.00% |
|
Square Butte PPA [Member]
|
|
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Line Items] | |
| Output Purchased (Percent) | 50.00% |
| Output Purchased (MW) | 227.5 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Long-Term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Share of Plant Output Purchased No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The minimum amount of cash collected on the contract price in order to fully recognize profit on the sale of real estate upon closing (company policy). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share of plant output being purchased under a long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Business Segments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Jun. 30, 2011
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Jun. 30, 2010
|
Mar. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Business Segments [Abstract] | |||||||||||
| Number of acres of land available-for-sale (in acres) | 5,500 | 5,500 | |||||||||
| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Operating and Maintenance Expense | $ 381.2 | $ 365.6 | $ 308.9 | ||||||||
| Depreciation Expense | 90.4 | 80.5 | 64.7 | ||||||||
| Operating Income | 34.2 | 38.9 | 26.1 | 50.8 | 22.7 | 35.3 | 31.7 | 46.1 | 150.0 | 135.8 | 106.0 |
| Interest Expense | (43.6) | (39.2) | (33.8) | ||||||||
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 18.4 | 17.9 | 17.5 | ||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) | 4.4 | 4.6 | 1.8 | ||||||||
| Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 129.2 | 119.1 | 91.5 | ||||||||
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | 35.6 | 44.3 | 30.8 | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) | 93.6 | 74.8 | 60.7 | ||||||||
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | (0.2) | (0.5) | (0.3) | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | 19.1 | 20.5 | 17.0 | 37.2 | 13.3 | 19.6 | 19.4 | 23.0 | 93.8 | 75.3 | 61.0 |
| Total Assets | 2,876.0 | 2,609.1 | 2,876.0 | 2,609.1 | |||||||
|
Consolidated [Member]
|
|||||||||||
| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | 766.7 | ||||||||||
| Prior Year Rate Refunds | (7.6) | ||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | 928.2 | 907.0 | 759.1 | ||||||||
| Total Operating Revenue | 928.2 | 907.0 | 759.1 | ||||||||
| Fuel and Purchased Power Expense | 306.6 | 325.1 | 279.5 | ||||||||
| Operating and Maintenance Expense | 381.2 | 365.6 | 308.9 | ||||||||
| Depreciation Expense | 90.4 | 80.5 | 64.7 | ||||||||
| Operating Income | 150.0 | 135.8 | 106.0 | ||||||||
| Interest Expense | (43.6) | (39.2) | (33.8) | ||||||||
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 18.4 | 17.9 | 17.5 | ||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) | 4.4 | 4.6 | 1.8 | ||||||||
| Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 129.2 | 119.1 | 91.5 | ||||||||
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | 35.6 | 44.3 | 30.8 | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) | 93.6 | 74.8 | 60.7 | ||||||||
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | (0.2) | (0.5) | (0.3) | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | 93.8 | 75.3 | 61.0 | ||||||||
| Total Assets | 2,876.0 | 2,609.1 | 2,876.0 | 2,609.1 | 2,393.1 | ||||||
| Capital Additions | 246.8 | 260.0 | 303.7 | ||||||||
|
Regulated Operations [Member]
|
|||||||||||
| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | 689.4 | ||||||||||
| Prior Year Rate Refunds | (7.6) | ||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | 851.9 | 835.5 | 681.8 | ||||||||
| Total Operating Revenue | 851.9 | 835.5 | 681.8 | ||||||||
| Fuel and Purchased Power Expense | 306.6 | 325.1 | 279.5 | ||||||||
| Operating and Maintenance Expense | 301.5 | 292.3 | 235.8 | ||||||||
| Depreciation Expense | 85.4 | 76.1 | 60.2 | ||||||||
| Operating Income | 158.4 | 142.0 | 106.3 | ||||||||
| Interest Expense | (35.8) | (32.3) | (28.3) | ||||||||
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 18.4 | 17.9 | 17.5 | ||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) | 2.6 | 3.8 | 5.8 | ||||||||
| Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 143.6 | 131.4 | 101.3 | ||||||||
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | 43.2 | 51.6 | 35.4 | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) | 100.4 | 79.8 | 65.9 | ||||||||
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | 100.4 | 79.8 | 65.9 | ||||||||
| Total Assets | 2,579.8 | 2,375.4 | 2,579.8 | 2,375.4 | 2,184.0 | ||||||
| Capital Additions | 228.0 | 256.4 | 299.2 | ||||||||
|
Investments and Other [Member]
|
|||||||||||
| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | 77.3 | ||||||||||
| Prior Year Rate Refunds | 0 | ||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | 76.3 | 71.5 | 77.3 | ||||||||
| Total Operating Revenue | 76.3 | 71.5 | 77.3 | ||||||||
| Fuel and Purchased Power Expense | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
| Operating and Maintenance Expense | 79.7 | 73.3 | 73.1 | ||||||||
| Depreciation Expense | 5.0 | 4.4 | 4.5 | ||||||||
| Operating Income | (8.4) | (6.2) | (0.3) | ||||||||
| Interest Expense | (7.8) | (6.9) | (5.5) | ||||||||
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) | 1.8 | 0.8 | (4.0) | ||||||||
| Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | (14.4) | (12.3) | (9.8) | ||||||||
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | (7.6) | (7.3) | (4.6) | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) | (6.8) | (5.0) | (5.2) | ||||||||
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | (0.2) | (0.5) | (0.3) | ||||||||
| Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | (6.6) | (4.5) | (4.9) | ||||||||
| Total Assets | 296.2 | 233.7 | 296.2 | 233.7 | 209.1 | ||||||
| Capital Additions | $ 18.8 | $ 3.6 | $ 4.5 | ||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of acres of land available-for-sale. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Operating Revenue, Excluding Prior Year Rate Refunds No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Prior Year Rate Refunds Included in Operating Revenues No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Cost of electricity purchased as well as fuel used to generate electricity used in operations and sold during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of expense recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the cost of tangible assets over the assets' useful lives. Includes production and non-production related depreciation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses from ongoing operations, after income or loss from equity method investments, but before income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of the current income tax expense or benefit and the deferred income tax expense or benefit pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of net Income or Loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest (if any) deducted in order to derive the portion attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Current year acquisitions of long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of total revenue for the reportable segments, including revenue from external customers, transactions with other operating segments of the same entity, and (gross) interest revenue. All considered to be "operating revenue" for purposes of the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Discloses the amount of operating expense for the period for routine plant maintenance, repairs and operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
| Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | $ 1,982.7 | $ 1,805.6 |
| Asset Retirement Obligation [Roll Forward] | ||
| Beginning Obligation | 50.3 | 44.6 |
| Accretion Expense | 6.4 | 2.9 |
| Additional Liabilities Incurred | 0.3 | 2.8 |
| Ending Obligation | 57.0 | 50.3 |
|
Regulated Utiity [Member]
|
||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
| Segment Property, Plant and Equipment | 2,794.8 | 2,649.2 |
| Construction Work in Progress | 155.0 | 86.6 |
| Accumulated Depreciation | (1,024.6) | (975.8) |
| Segment Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 1,925.2 | 1,760.0 |
| Estimated Useful Life - Generation | 4 to 35 years | |
| Estimated Useful Life - Transmission | 42 to 61 years | |
| Estimated Useful Life - Distribution | 14 to 65 years | |
|
Unregulated Non-Rate Base Energy Operations and Other Plant [Member]
|
||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
| Segment Property, Plant and Equipment | 106.4 | 88.4 |
| Construction Work in Progress | 2.3 | 4.5 |
| Accumulated Depreciation | (51.4) | (48.0) |
| Segment Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 57.3 | 44.9 |
| Other Plant - Net | $ 0.2 | $ 0.7 |
| Estimated Useful Life - Non-Rate Base Operations | 3 to 61 years | |
| Estimated Useful Life - Other Plant | 5 to 25 years | |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The carrying amount of a liability for an asset retirement obligation. An asset retirement obligation is a legal obligation associated with the disposal or retirement of a tangible long-lived asset that results from the acquisition, construction or development, or the normal operations of a long-lived asset, except for certain obligations of lessees. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of accretion expense recognized during the period that is associated with an asset retirement obligation. Accretion expense measures and incorporates changes due to the passage of time into the carrying amount of the liability. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of asset retirement obligations incurred during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tangible assets that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes and that are expected to provide economic benefit for more than one year; net of accumulated depreciation. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Period end book value of accumulated depreciation on property, plant and equipment (PPE) that is owned by the regulated operations of the public utility. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Estimated useful life of property, plant and equipment (PPE) related to assets common to business units owned by public utility. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Period end amount of construction work in progress in public utility. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Estimated useful life of property, plant and equipment (PPE) related to utility distribution owned by public utility. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Estimated useful life of property, plant and equipment (PPE) related to utility generation owned by the public utility. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Period end amount of total net PPE. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Period end book value of other property, plant and equipment (PPE) owned (but not classified elsewhere) by the public utility. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Estimated useful life of other property, plant and equipment (PPE) owned (but not classified elsewhere) by the public utility. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Period end amount of total gross PPE. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Estimated useful life of property, plant and equipment (PPE) related to utility transmission. No definition available.
|
|
Jointly-Owned Electric Facility (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
MW
|
|
| Jointly Owned Electric Facility [Line Items] | |
| Plant in Service | $ 418.8 |
| Accumulated Depreciation | 177.4 |
| Construction Work in Progress | 24.7 |
|
Boswell Unit 4 [Member]
|
|
| Jointly Owned Electric Facility [Line Items] | |
| Plant in Service | 406.9 |
| Accumulated Depreciation | 177.4 |
| Construction Work in Progress | 8.8 |
| % Ownership | 80.00% |
| Coal-fired generating unit capacity | 585 |
| Jointly-Owned Electric Facility Percentage Not Owned | 20.00% |
|
CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Jointly Owned Electric Facility [Line Items] | |
| Plant in Service | 11.9 |
| Accumulated Depreciation | 0 |
| Construction Work in Progress | $ 15.9 |
| % Ownership Range | 9.3 - 14.7 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Represents MW capacity for coal-fired generating unit near Center, ND. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Jointly-Owned Electric Facility Percentage Not Owned No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Proportionate Ownership Share Range No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The period end amount owned by the reporting utility of a jointly owned utility plant in service. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The period end amount of construction work in progress at a jointly owned electricity generation plant. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The period end amount of accumulated depreciation in a jointly owned electricity generation plant. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The proportionate share of interest (percent) in a jointly owned utility plant. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Regulatory Matters (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Jun. 01, 2011
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
May 24, 2011
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
Nov. 02, 2010
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
FERC-Approved Wholesale Rates [Member]
Customers
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Non-Affiliated Municipal Customers, Private Utilities [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2011
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2011
DTL Reversal, Revenue Receivable Forgone [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2010
DTA Tax Charge, Elimination of Medicare Part D [Member]
|
Jun. 30, 2011
Income Tax Benefit, MPUC Approval of Deferral of PPACA [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Water Rates [Member]
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Natural Gas Rates [Member]
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Electric Rates [Member]
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Deferred Income Tax Charges [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Deferred Income Tax Charges [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Plant Removal Obligations Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Plant Removal Obligations Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Other Regulatory Liabilities [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Other Regulatory Liabilities [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Deferred Fuel Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Deferred Fuel Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Pension Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Environmental Restoration Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Environmental Restoration Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Deferred Income Tax Charges [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Deferred Income Tax Charges [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Asset Retirement Obligation Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Asset Retirement Obligation Costs [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Medicare Part D Regulatory Asset [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Medicare Part D Regulatory Asset [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
CIP Financial Incentive [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
CIP Financial Incentive [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Other Regulatory Assets [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Other Regulatory Assets [Member]
|
|||||
| Regulatory Matters [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets, Current | $ 17.5 | $ 20.6 | $ 17.5 | [1] | $ 20.6 | [1] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets, Noncurrent | 345.9 | 310.2 | 292.8 | 257.9 | 0 | 20.5 | 28.6 | 17.3 | 9.8 | 7.8 | 5.0 | 0 | 4.6 | 0.7 | 5.1 | 6.0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets | 363.4 | 330.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Regulatory Liability, Noncurrent | 43.5 | 43.6 | 21.9 | 23.4 | 15.0 | 16.9 | 6.6 | 3.3 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Approved Retail Rate Increase | 53.5 | 53.5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Approved Rate of Return on Common Equity | 10.38% | 10.90% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Approved Percentage of Capital Structure Related to Equity | 54.29% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| MPUC, Rates, Effective Date | June 1, 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amount of Rate Differential Authorized for Collection | 3.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amount of Revenue Receivable Capitalized | 20.5 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | 6.2 | 4.0 | 2.9 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-Affiliated Municipal Customers, Municipalities | 16 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-Affiliated Municipal Customers, Private Utilities | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Length of Notice Required to Terminate (Years) | 3 | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Approved Retail Rate Increase (Percent) | 2.40% | 12.80% | 2.50% | 0.70% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amount Of Estimated Additional Revenue | $ 2.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of estimated additional revenue generated on an annualized basis as a result of a rate increase. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of differential between interim rates and final rates authorized for collection by the state regulatory commission through a rate case proceeding. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of revenue receivable capitalized, as part of rate base, as part of a stipulation and settlement agreement in a rate case. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of capital structure related to equity approved by the state regulatory commission through a rate case proceeding. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Rate of return on common equity approved by the state regulatory commission through a rate case proceeding. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The entity's approved amount of increase to electric rates, by the state regulatory commission. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The entity's approved rate of increase to existing rates, by the state regulatory commission. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The length of notice required to terminate a contract in years. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Effective date of established rates as approved by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of municipalities that are non-affiliated municipal customers. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of private utilities that are non-affiliated municipal customers. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount for the individual regulatory asset as itemized in a table of regulatory assets as of the end of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs of regulated entities that are expected to be recovered through revenue sources within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Such costs are capitalized if they meet both of the following criteria: a. It is probable that future revenue in an amount at least equal to the capitalized cost will result from inclusion of that cost in allowable costs for rate-making purposes. b. Based on available evidence, the future revenue will be provided to permit recovery of the previously incurred cost rather than to provide for expected levels of similar future costs. If the revenue will be provided through an automatic rate-adjustment clause, this criterion requires that the regulator's intent clearly be to permit recovery of the previously incurred cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs of regulated entities that are not expected to be recovered through revenue sources within one year or the normal operating cycle if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount for the individual regulatory noncurrent liability as itemized in a table of regulatory noncurrent liabilities as of the end of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the effects of adjustments of previously recorded tax expense, significant settlements of income tax disputes, and unusual tax positions or infrequent actions taken by the entity, including tax assessment reversal, IRS tax settlement and unusual repatriation of foreign earnings. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Investment in ATC (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
Jan. 31, 2012
|
|
| ALLETE's Investment in ATC [Roll Forward] | ||||
| Equity Investment Beginning Balance | $ 93.3 | $ 88.4 | ||
| Cash Investments | 2.0 | 1.6 | ||
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 18.4 | 17.9 | 17.5 | |
| Distributed ATC Earnings | (14.8) | (14.6) | ||
| Equity Investment Ending Balance | 98.9 | 93.3 | 88.4 | |
| Balance Sheet Data [Abstract] | ||||
| Current Assets | 58.7 | 59.9 | ||
| Non-Current Assets | 3,053.7 | 2,888.4 | ||
| Total Assets | 3,112.4 | 2,948.3 | ||
| Current Liabilities | 298.5 | 428.4 | ||
| Long-Term Debt | 1,400.0 | 1,175.0 | ||
| Other Non-Current Liabilities | 82.6 | 84.9 | ||
| Members' Equity | 1,331.3 | 1,260.0 | ||
| Total Liabilities and Members' Equity | 3,112.4 | 2,948.3 | ||
| Income Statement Data [Abstract] | ||||
| Revenue | 567.2 | 556.7 | 521.5 | |
| Operating Expense | 261.6 | 251.1 | 230.3 | |
| Other Expense | 81.7 | 85.9 | 77.8 | |
| Net Income | 223.9 | 219.7 | 213.4 | |
| ALLETE's Equity in Net Income | 18.4 | 17.9 | 17.5 | |
| Investment in ATC [Abstract] | ||||
| Equity Method Investment, Expected Future Investment | 3 | |||
| Equity Method Investment - Additional Investment Amount | $ 0.8 | |||
| Equity Method Investment, Approved Return on Common Equity | 12.20% | |||
| Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage | 8.00% | |||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Equity Method Investment - Additional Investment Amount No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The approved percentage return on common equity dedicated to the utility plant in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Equity Method Investment, Expected Future Investment No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Long-Term Debt No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the operating expense reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of other expense reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Non-Current Liabilities No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents disclosure of the amount of dividends or other distributions received from unconsolidated subsidiaries, certain corporate joint ventures, and certain noncontrolled corporation; these investments are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. This element excludes distributions that constitute a return of investment, which are classified as investing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee. This is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of assets reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of current assets reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of current liabilities reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of equity (capital), including the noncontrolling interest (if any), reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of liabilities and equity reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of noncurrent assets reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of revenue from sale of goods and services reduced by sales returns, allowances, and discounts reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of a controlling interest in another entity or an entity that is related to it but not strictly controlled (for example, an unconsolidated subsidiary, affiliate, joint venture or equity method investment). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Investments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
Jan. 05, 2011
|
|||||||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Cost | $ 27.3 | $ 27.4 | $ 33.1 | |||||||
| Gross Unrealized Gain | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.1 | |||||||
| Gross Unrealized (Loss) | (2.7) | (2.4) | (3.7) | |||||||
| Fair Value | 24.7 | 25.2 | 29.5 | |||||||
| Net Proceeds | 5.5 | (1.7) | 6.7 | |||||||
| Gross Realized Gain | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
| Gross Realized (Loss) | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
| Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) in Other Comprehensive Income | (0.4) | 1.4 | 4.5 | |||||||
| Available for sale securities, Issued by States of the United States (ARS) | 6.7 | |||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| ALLETE Properties | 91.3 | 94.0 | ||||||||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 24.7 | 25.2 | ||||||||
| Other | 16.3 | 6.8 | ||||||||
| Total Investments | 132.3 | 126.0 | ||||||||
| Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent | 2.0 | 3.7 | ||||||||
| Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Provisions | 0.6 | 0.8 | ||||||||
| Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||
| Land Inventory Beginning Balance | 86.0 | 74.9 | ||||||||
| Deeds to Collateralized Property | 1.8 | [1] | 9.9 | [1] | ||||||
| Land Impairment | (1.7) | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||
| Cost of Real Estate Sold | (0.3) | 0 | ||||||||
| Capitalized Improvements and Other | 0.2 | 1.2 | ||||||||
| Land Inventory Ending Balance | 86.0 | 86.0 | 74.9 | |||||||
| Long-Term Finance Receivables (net of allowances of $0.6 and $0.8) | 2.0 | [1] | 3.7 | [1] | ||||||
| Other | 3.3 | 4.3 | ||||||||
| Total Real Estate Assets | 91.3 | 94.0 | ||||||||
| Long-Term Finance Receivable Allowance | $ 0.6 | $ 0.8 | ||||||||
|
||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of debt securities issued by states of the United States categorized as neither held-to-maturity nor trading. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A valuation allowance relating to a written agreement to receive money (at a specified future date(s) more than one year from the reporting date, consisting of principal as well as any accrued interest) for the portion that is expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the cost of debt and equity securities, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading, net of adjustments including accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments recognized, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item represents Available-for-sale Securities which consist of all investments in certain debt and equity securities neither classified as trading or held-to-maturity securities. A debt security represents a creditor relationship with an enterprise. Debt securities include, among other items, US Treasury securities, US government securities, municipal securities, corporate bonds, convertible debt, commercial paper, and all securitized debt instruments. An equity security represents an ownership interest in an enterprise or the right to acquire or dispose of an ownership interest in an enterprise at fixed or determinable prices. Equity securities include, among other things, common stock, certain preferred stock, warrant rights, call options, and put options, but do not include convertible debt. An entity may opt to provide the reader with additional narrative text to better understand the nature of investments in debt and equity securities which are categorized as Available-for-sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the gross profit realized on the sale of debt or equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of proceeds received for the sale of securities, categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities, during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the gross loss realized on the sale of debt or equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the gross unrealized gains for securities, at a point in time, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the gross unrealized losses for securities, at a point in time, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Investments in debt and equity securities which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading and which are intended to be sold or mature more than one year from the balance sheet date or operating cycle, if longer. Such securities are reported at fair value; unrealized gains (losses) related to Available-for-sale Securities are excluded from earnings and reported in a separate component of shareholders' equity (other comprehensive income), unless the Available-for-sale security is designated as a hedge or is determined to have had an other than temporary decline in fair value below its amortized cost basis. All or a portion of the unrealized holding gain (loss) of an Available-for-sale security that is designated as being hedged in a fair value hedge is recognized in earnings during the period of the hedge, as are other than temporary declines in fair value below the cost basis for investments in equity securities and debt securities that an entity intends to sell or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell before the recovery of its amortized cost basis. Other than temporary declines in fair value below the cost basis for debt securities categorized as Available-for-sale that an entity does not intend to sell and for which it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before the recovery of its amortized cost basis are bifurcated into credit losses and losses related to all other factors. Other than temporary declines in fair value below cost basis related to credit losses are recognized in earnings, and losses related to all other factors are recognized in other comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Charge to expense for financing receivables that are expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount by which the fair value of an investment is less than the amortized cost basis or carrying amount of that investment at the balance sheet date and the decline in fair value is deemed to be other than temporary, before considering whether or not such amount is recognized in earnings or other comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Land held for sale recorded at cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the aggregate carrying amount of all categories of loans and leases held in portfolio, net of unearned income and the allowance for losses on loans and leases. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of investments that are intended to be held for an extended period of time (longer than one operating cycle). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
An amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date more than one year from the balance sheet date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the debt. The debt also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among a myriad of other features and characteristics. This amount does not include amounts related to receivables held-for-sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total of unsold available-for-sale securities during the period being reported (except when designated as a fair value hedge). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Other long-term investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy, not including investments in marketable securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of other real estate, which may include real estate investments, real estate loans that qualify as investments in real estate, and premises that are no longer used in operations may also be included in real estate owned. This does not include real estate assets taken in settlement of troubled loans through surrender or foreclosure. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of real estate investments acquired through foreclosure during the period. Title through foreclosure occurs in a legal proceeding in which a secured creditor obtains title typically by bidding the amount of debt owed to it after the borrower has defaulted on the debt instrument. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The carrying amount of real estate sold during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Gross amount of real estate as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of improvements made to real estate investments during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Derivatives (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Aug. 25, 2011
|
|
| Interest Rate Swap [Abstract] | ||
| Term Loan, Face Amount | $ 75.0 | |
| Term Loan, Description of Variable Rate Basis | one-month LIBOR | |
| Term Loan, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | 1.00% | |
| Percentage of Debt Hedged by Interest Rate Derivatives | 9.00% | |
| Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate | 0.825% | |
| Discussion of Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Effectiveness Assessment and Measurement | The shortcut method is used to assess hedge effectiveness. At inception, all shortcut method requirements were satisfied; thus changes in value of the Swap designated as the hedging instrument will be deemed 100 percent effective. As a result, there was no ineffectiveness recorded for the year ended December 31, 2011. | |
| Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value | $ 0.4 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The reference rate for the variable rate of the debt instrument, such as LIBOR or the US Treasury rate and the maturity of the reference rate used, such as three months or six months LIBOR. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The stated principal amount of the debt instrument at time of issuance, which may vary from the carrying amount because of unamortized premium or discount. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fixed interest rate related to the interest rate derivative. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Discussion of how the entity assesses hedge effectiveness and measures hedge ineffectiveness in interest rate derivatives designated as cash flow hedges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value as of the balance sheet date of all interest rate derivative liabilities designated as cash flow hedging instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of an entity's outstanding debt that is designated as a hedged item in cash flow, fair value, or net investment hedge. No definition available.
|
|
Recurring Fair Value Measures (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | $ 24.7 | $ 25.2 | $ 29.5 |
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | (0.4) | ||
| Fair Value Hierarchy Transfers, All Levels | 0 | ||
|
Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
|
|||
| Assets [Abstract] | |||
| Equity Securities | 17.6 | 19.4 | |
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | ||
| Money Market Funds | 11.4 | 0.8 | |
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 29.0 | 20.2 | |
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||
| Deferred Compensation | 0 | 0 | |
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0 | ||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 0 | 0 | |
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 29.0 | 20.2 | |
|
Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
|
|||
| Assets [Abstract] | |||
| Equity Securities | 0 | 0 | |
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 7.5 | ||
| Money Market Funds | 0 | 0 | |
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 8.2 | 7.5 | |
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||
| Deferred Compensation | 12.8 | 13.3 | |
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.4 | ||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 13.2 | 13.3 | |
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | (5.0) | (5.8) | |
|
Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
|
|||
| Assets [Abstract] | |||
| Equity Securities | 0 | 0 | |
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 6.7 | ||
| Money Market Funds | 0 | 0 | |
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 0 | 6.7 | |
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||
| Deferred Compensation | 0 | 0 | |
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0 | ||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 0 | 0 | |
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 0 | 6.7 | |
|
Recurring [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||
| Assets [Abstract] | |||
| Equity Securities | 17.6 | 19.4 | |
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 14.2 | ||
| Money Market Funds | 11.4 | 0.8 | |
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 37.2 | 34.4 | |
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||
| Deferred Compensation | 12.8 | 13.3 | |
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.4 | ||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 13.2 | 13.3 | |
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 24.0 | 21.1 | |
|
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | 0 | |
|
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 8.2 | 7.5 | |
|
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | 0 | |
|
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 8.2 | 7.5 | |
|
Debt Securities Issued by the United States (ARS) [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | ||
|
Debt Securities Issued by the United States (ARS) [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | ||
|
Debt Securities Issued by the United States (ARS) [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 6.7 | ||
|
Debt Securities Issued by the United States (ARS) [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | |||
| Available-for-sale Securities | $ 6.7 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of transfers in and out of levels 1, 2 and 3 of the fair value hierarchy during the period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the aggregate of the assets and liabilities reported on the balance sheet at period end measured at fair value by the entity. This element is intended to be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item represents the amount of accrued expenses as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the aggregate of the assets reported on the balance sheet at period end measured at fair value by the entity. This element is intended to be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item represents Available-for-sale Securities which consist of all investments in certain debt and equity securities neither classified as trading or held-to-maturity securities. A debt security represents a creditor relationship with an enterprise. Debt securities include, among other items, US Treasury securities, US government securities, municipal securities, corporate bonds, convertible debt, commercial paper, and all securitized debt instruments. An equity security represents an ownership interest in an enterprise or the right to acquire or dispose of an ownership interest in an enterprise at fixed or determinable prices. Equity securities include, among other things, common stock, certain preferred stock, warrant rights, call options, and put options, but do not include convertible debt. An entity may opt to provide the reader with additional narrative text to better understand the nature of investments in debt and equity securities which are categorized as Available-for-sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Company may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item represents investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value as of the balance sheet date of all interest rate derivative liabilities designated as cash flow hedging instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the aggregate of the liabilities reported on the balance sheet at period end measured at fair value by the entity. This element is intended to be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Recurring Fair Value Measures, Activity in Level 3 (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|||||||
|
Derivatives [Member]
|
||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures, Activity in Level 3 [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Beginning Balance | $ 0.7 | |||||||
| Settled During the Period | (0.7) | [1] | ||||||
| Redeemed During the Period | 0 | |||||||
| Ending Balance | 0 | |||||||
|
Debt Securities Issued by States of the United States (ARS) [Member]
|
||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures, Activity in Level 3 [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Beginning Balance | 6.7 | 6.7 | ||||||
| Settled During the Period | 0 | 0 | ||||||
| Redeemed During the Period | (6.7) | [2] | 0 | |||||
| Ending Balance | $ 0 | $ 6.7 | ||||||
|
||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sales that have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Settlements that have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Fair Value - Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|---|---|---|
| Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] | ||
| Long-Term Debt, Including Current Portion - Carrying Amount | $ 863.3 | $ 785.0 |
| Long-Term Debt, Including Current Portion - Fair Value | $ 966.4 | $ 796.7 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Including current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet date. May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The fair value amount of long-term debt whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. No definition available.
|
|
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Aug. 25, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Feb. 01, 2012
Credit Agreement Feb 2012 [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Credit Agreement July 2011 [Member]
|
Jun. 30, 2011
Credit Agreement July 2011 [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Term Loan Agreement [Member]
|
Aug. 25, 2011
Term Loan Agreement [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
ALLETE Properties LOC Nov 2011 [Member]
|
Nov. 14, 2011
ALLETE Properties LOC Nov 2011 [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2011
ALLETE Properties LOC Nov 2011 [Member]
|
Oct. 07, 2011
ALLETE Properties LOC Oct 2011 [Member]
|
|
| Financial Covenants [Abstract] | ||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Required Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.65 to 1.00 | |||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Actual Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.44 to 1.00 | |||||||||||
| Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract] | ||||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Current Maturities | $ 5.4 | $ 13.4 | ||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two | 83.8 | |||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three | 94.1 | |||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four | 16.7 | |||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five | 21.0 | |||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five | 642.3 | |||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
| Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 150.0 | 250.0 | 150.0 | 8.3 | 10.0 | 3.0 | ||||||
| Line of Credit Borrowing Capacity Reduction | 1.7 | |||||||||||
| Letter of Credit Maximum Issuances | 10.0 | 40.0 | ||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 75.0 | 75.0 | ||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis | one-month LIBOR | LIBOR | ||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | 1.00% | 1.00% | ||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 1.825% | |||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Carrying Amount at Period End | 75.0 | |||||||||||
| Short-term Debt [Abstract] | ||||||||||||
| Short-term Debt | 6.5 | 14.4 | ||||||||||
| Aggregate Lines of Credit, Total Borrowing Capacity | 256.4 | 154.0 | ||||||||||
| Aggregate Lines of Credit, Used Borrowing Capacity | 1.1 | 1.0 | ||||||||||
| Aggregate Lines of Credit, Available Borrowing Capacity | $ 255.3 | $ 153.0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate Lines of Credit, Available Borrowing Capacity (unused/outstanding) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate Lines of Credit, Total Borrowing Capacity No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate Lines of Credit, Used Borrowing Capacity No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Actual indebtedness to total capital ratio required to be maintained by most restrictive financial covenant. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The balance sheet gross carrying amount of the specified debt instrument at period end. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Indebtedness to total capital ratio required to be maintained by most restrictive financial covenant. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This represents the allowed amount of letters of credit issuances under another credit agreement. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Line of Credit Borrowing Capacity Reduction No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The reference rate for the variable rate of the debt instrument, such as LIBOR or the US Treasury rate and the maturity of the reference rate used, such as three months or six months LIBOR. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The stated principal amount of the debt instrument at time of issuance, which may vary from the carrying amount because of unamortized premium or discount. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Effective interest rate for the funds borrowed under the debt agreement considering interest compounding and original issue discount or premium. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of the portions of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of long-term debt, which may include notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans, and commercial paper, which are scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt maturities after year five following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt maturing in year five following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt maturing in year four following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt maturing in year three following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt maturing in year two following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed or determinable prices and dates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the total carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of debt having initial terms less than one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Schedule of Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|---|---|---|
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | $ 863.3 | $ 785.0 |
| Long-term Debt, Current Maturities | 5.4 | 13.4 |
| Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities | 857.9 | 771.6 |
|
4.86% Series Due 2013 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 60.0 | 60.0 |
|
6.94% Series Due 2014 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 18.0 | 18.0 |
|
7.70% Series Due 2016 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 20.0 | 20.0 |
|
8.17% Series Due 2019 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 42.0 | 42.0 |
|
5.28% Series Due 2020 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 35.0 | 35.0 |
|
4.85% Series Due 2021 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 15.0 | 15.0 |
|
4.95% Pollution Control Series F Due 2022 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 111.0 | 111.0 |
|
6.02% Series Due 2023 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 75.0 | 75.0 |
|
4.90% Series Due 2025 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 30.0 | 30.0 |
|
5.10% Series Due 2025 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 30.0 | 30.0 |
|
5.99% Series Due 2027 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 60.0 | 60.0 |
|
5.69% Series Due 2036 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 50.0 | 50.0 |
|
6.00% Series Due 2040 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 35.0 | 35.0 |
|
5.82% Series Due 2040 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 45.0 | 45.0 |
|
7.25% Series Due 2013 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 10.0 | 10.0 |
|
Senior Unsecured Notes 5.99% Due 2017 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 50.0 | 50.0 |
|
Variable Demand Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 1997 A, B, and C Due 2013-2020 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 28.2 | 28.3 |
|
Industrial Development Revenue Bonds 6.5% Due 2025 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 6.0 | 6.0 |
|
Industrial Development Variable Rate Demand Refunding Revenue Bonds Series 2006 Due 2025 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 27.8 | 27.8 |
|
Unsecured Term Loan Variable Rate Due 2014 [Member] [Domain]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | 75.0 | 0 |
|
Other Long-Term Debt, 1.0%-8.0% Due 2012-2037 [Member]
|
||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
| Long-term Debt | $ 40.3 | $ 36.9 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Including current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet date. May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of the portions of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of long-term debt, which may include notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans, and commercial paper, which are scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all long-term debt, which is debt initially having maturities due after one year from the balance sheet date or beyond the operating cycle, if longer, but excluding the portions thereof scheduled to be repaid within one year (current maturities) or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Power Purchase Agreements (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Number of Wind PPAs | 2 | ||
| Interest Expense | $ 43.6 | $ 39.2 | $ 33.8 |
|
Minnkota Power Sales Agreement [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Date of Contract Expiration | 2025 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Anticipated Date of New Transmission Line | 2013 | ||
|
Oliver Wind I PPA [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Share of Plant Output Being Purchased (MW) | 50 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Start Date of Contract | 2006 | ||
|
Oliver Wind II PPA [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Share of Plant Output Being Purchased (MW) | 48 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Start Date of Contract | 2007 | ||
|
Oliver Wind I and II PPA [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Term of Contract (Years) | 25 | ||
| fixed capacity charge | 0 | ||
|
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires April 2015) [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Share of Plant Output Being Purchased (MW) | 50 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Date of Contract Expiration | April 2015 | ||
|
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires April 2022) [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Start Date of Contract | May 2011 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Date of Contract Expiration | April 2022 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Share of Plant Output Being Purchased (MWh) | 1,000,000 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Date of MPUC Approval | March 31, 2011 | ||
|
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires 2035) [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Long Term Contract For Purchase Of Electric Power Date Agreement Was Executed | May 19, 2011 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Term of Contract (Years) | 15 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Start Date of Contract | 2020 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Generating Unit Capacity (MW) | 250 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Date of MPUC Approval | January 26, 2012 | ||
|
Square Butte PPA [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Cost of Purchased Power | 61.2 | 55.2 | 53.9 |
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Date of Contract Expiration | 2026 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Generating Unit Capacity (MW) | 455 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Amount of Long-term Debt or Lease Obligation Outstanding | 451.4 | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Share of Plant Output Being Purchased | 50.00% | ||
| Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Annual Minimum Debt Service Payment Required | 44 | ||
| Interest Expense | $ 11.1 | $ 10.2 | $ 11.0 |
|
DC Transmission Line from Square Butte [Member]
|
|||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Transmission Line Purchase Date | December 2009 | ||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fixed capacity charge under PPA. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Anticipated date that a new transmission line will be built as part of a long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date agreement of long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization was executed. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Long-Term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Date of Contract Expiration, Duration String No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date of approval by Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) of long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The generating capacity of a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization with whom exists a long-term contract to purchase electric power. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of long-term wind contracts to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share of plant output being purchased in megawatts under a long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share of plant output being purchased in megawatthours under a long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Start date of long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Term in years of long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date of purchase of a transmission line. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Cost of electricity purchased as well as fuel used to generate electricity used in operations and sold during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Under long-term contracts with public utility districts, cooperatives or other organizations, a utility company receives a portion of the output of a production plant constructed and financed by the district or cooperative. The utility has only a nominal or no investment at all in the plant but pays a proportionate part of the plant's costs, including debt service. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Under long-term contracts with public utility districts, cooperatives or other organizations, a utility company receives a portion of the output of a production plant constructed and financed by the district or cooperative. The utility has only a nominal or no investment at all in the plant but pays a proportionate part of the plant's costs, including debt service. If the utility is obligated to pay certain minimum amounts which cover debt service requirements whether or not the plant is operating, the amount can be disclosed here. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share of plant output being purchased under a long-term contract to purchase electricity from a production plant constructed and financed by a public utility district, cooperative, or other organization. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - North Dakota Wind Development (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
Miles
kV
|
|---|---|
|
DC Transmission Line from Square Butte [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 465 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 250 |
|
Bison 1 Wind Project [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Generating Unit Capacity (MW) | 82 |
| Expected Capital Cost | $ 177 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | 171.5 |
| MPUC, Current Cost Recovery, Approval Date | 2009 |
| MPUC, Rates, Approval Date | July 2010 |
| MPUC, Rates, Effective Date | August 1, 2010 |
| MPUC Updated Approval Date | November 3, 2011 |
|
Bison 1 Wind Project, Phase 1 [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 22 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 230 |
| Project Completion Date | 2010 |
| Number of Turbines | 16 |
| Capacity of Turbines (MW) | 2.3 |
|
Bison 1 Wind Project, Phase 2 [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Project Completion Date | January 2012 |
| Number of Turbines | 15 |
| Capacity of Turbines (MW) | 3.0 |
|
Bison 2 and 3 Wind Projects [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Generating Unit Capacity (MW) | 105 |
| Project Completion Date | 2012 |
| Expected Capital Cost | 160 |
|
Bison 2 Wind Project [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | 37.0 |
| MPUC, Project, Approval Date | September 8, 2011 |
| NDPSC, Site Permit, Approval Date | August 10, 2011 |
|
Bison 3 Wind Project [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 14.7 |
| MPUC, Project, Approval Date | November 2, 2011 |
| NDPSC, Site Permit, Approval Date | October 12, 2011 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of each turbine in megawatts at a site. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Expected capital cost for each individual project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of each generating unit/individual project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) of current cost recovery for expenditures and investments related to a project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of project approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) establishing rates. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Effective date of established rates as approved by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
MPUCUpdatedApprovalDate No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of approval of site permit by the North Dakota Public Service Commission (NDPSC). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of turbines at a site. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of project completion. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a transmission line in kilovolts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Length of a transmission line in miles. No definition available.
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Leasing Agreements (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current | $ 10.9 | ||
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years | 11.1 | ||
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years | 11.4 | ||
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years | 11.2 | ||
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years | 9.2 | ||
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter | 43.0 | ||
| Operating Leases, Rent Expense | 9.4 | 9.4 | 9.3 |
|
Exploration and Production Equipment [Member]
|
|||
| Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |||
| Annual Lease Payment | 2.8 | ||
| Leasing Agreement Expiration Date | 2027 | ||
| Termination Fee | $ 3 | ||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Annual payment for operating lease agreement. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Expiration date of operating lease agreement. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A lump sum payment in conjunction with a lease termination. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Rental expense incurred for leased assets including furniture and equipment which has not been recognized in costs and expenses applicable to sales and revenues; for example, cost of goods sold or other operating costs and expenses. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within one year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the fourth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the third year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the second year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due after the fifth year from the balance sheet date on leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Coal Rail and Shipping Contracts (Details) (Public Utilities, Inventory, Coal [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|---|---|
|
Public Utilities, Inventory, Coal [Member]
|
|
| Coal Rail and Shipping Contracts [Line Items] | |
| Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due within One Year | $ 55.4 |
| Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Second Year | $ 27.0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of payments due in the second year after the balance sheet date to reduce a recorded unconditional purchase obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of payments due in the first year after the balance sheet date to reduce a recorded unconditional purchase obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Transmission (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|---|---|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| MPUC, Billing Factor, Approval Date | May 2011 |
| MPUC, Updated Billing Factor, Filing Date | June 29, 2011 |
| MPUC, Updated Billing Factor, Expected Approval Date | 2012 |
|
CapX2020 Bemidji to Grand Rapids Project [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 70 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 230 |
|
CapX2020 Monticello to St. Cloud Project [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 28 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 345 |
| Project Completion Date | December 2011 |
| MPUC, Route Permit, Approval Date | July 2010 |
|
CapX2020 Fargo to St. Cloud Project [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| MPUC, Route Permit, Approval Date | June 10, 2011 |
|
CapX2020 Fargo to Monticello Projects [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 238 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 345 |
| Projected In Service Date | 2015 |
|
CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Number of Projects | 3 |
| Minimum Amount Expected to be Invested in Transmission Projects | $ 100 |
| Maximum Amount Expected to be Invested in Transmission Projects | 125 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 27.8 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date an asset will be in service. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The maximum amount expected to be invested in transmission line projects. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The minimum amount expected to be invested in transmission line projects. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) of billing factor. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) of route permit. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission of updated billing factor. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Filing date of petition to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) seeking updated billing factor approval. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of projects. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date/expected date of project completion. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a transmission line in kilovolts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Length of a transmission line in miles. No definition available.
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Environmental Matters (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|---|---|
|
Boswell Unit 4 [Member]
|
|
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | |
| minimum amount expected to be invested for compliance costs | $ 300 |
| maximum amount expected to be invested for compliance costs | 400 |
|
Manufactured Gas Plant Site [Member]
|
|
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | |
| Liability for Remediation of Manufactured Gas Plant Site | $ 0.5 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The maximum amount expected to be invested for compliance costs for the MATS Rule. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The minimum amount expected to be invested for compliance costs of the MATS Rule. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount of the liability for remediation of environmental damage pertaining to assets or businesses previously disposed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Other Matters (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|---|---|---|
|
BNI Coal Reclamation Liability [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Surety Bonds Outstanding | $ 29.8 | |
| Total amount of letter of credit secured in addition to surety bonds for reclamation liability | 2.6 | |
| Total current estimated reclamation liability | 32.4 | |
|
ALLETE Properties Performance and Maintenance Obligations [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Surety Bonds Outstanding | 10.2 | |
| Performance and Maintenance Obligations | 8.0 | |
|
Town Center Community Development District [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Date Issued | March 2005 | |
| Special Assessment Bond | 26.4 | |
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Interest Rate | 6.00% | |
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Ownership Percentage of Benefited Property | 73.00% | 69.00% |
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Annual Assessments Based on Ownership Percentage | 1.5 | |
|
Palm Coast Park Community Development District [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Date Issued | May 2006 | |
| Special Assessment Bond | 31.8 | |
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Interest Rate | 5.70% | |
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Ownership Percentage of Benefited Property | 93.00% | 93.00% |
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Annual Assessments Based on Ownership Percentage | $ 2.2 | |
|
Community Development Districts [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Capital Improvement Revenue/Special Assessment Bonds, Term (Years) | 31 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Annual assessments based on ownership percentage of property benefited by a development project funded by municipal bonds. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Issue date of municipal bonds used to fund a development project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Interest rate of municipal bonds used to fund a development project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Ownership percentage of property benefited by a development project funded by municipal bonds. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Term in years of municipal bonds used to fund a development project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Estimated costs remaining on performance and maintenance obligations. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of surety bonds that are available for future payment obligations. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of letter of credit issued in addition to surety bond to secure performance obligation. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total current estimated liability for performance obligation. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of a type of municipal bond typically used to fund a development project. Also called special assessment limited liability bond, special district bond, special purpose bond, special tax bond and community development obligation. Interest owed to lenders is paid by taxes levied on the community benefiting from the particular bond-funded project. For example, if a bond of this sort was issued to pay for sidewalks to be repaved in a certain community, an additional tax would be levied on homeowners in the area benefiting from this project. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Legal Proceedings (Details) (Pending or Threatened Litigation [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
|
Pending or Threatened Litigation [Member]
|
|
| Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
| Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value | $ 20 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The value (monetary amount) of the award the plaintiff seeks in the legal matter. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Common Stock and Earnings Per Share - Summary of Common Stock (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
Dec. 31, 2008
|
|
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||
| Common Stock Outstanding, Shares | 37,500,000 | 35,800,000 | ||
| Purchase of Non-Controlling Interest, Shares | 200,000 | |||
| Contributions to Pension, Shares | 507,600 | |||
| Contributions to Pension, Value | $ 20.0 | |||
|
Common Stock [Member]
|
||||
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||
| Common Stock Outstanding, Shares | 37,513,000 | 35,817,000 | 35,221,000 | 32,585,000 |
| Common Stock Outstanding, Value | 705.6 | 636.1 | 613.4 | 534.1 |
| Employee Stock Purchase Program, Shares | 20,000 | 19,000 | 24,000 | |
| Employee Stock Purchase Program, Value | 0.8 | 0.6 | 0.7 | |
| Invest Direct, Shares | 437,000 | 346,000 | 456,000 | |
| Invest Direct, Value | 17.2 | 11.7 | 13.6 | |
| Options and Stock Awards, Shares | 109,000 | 51,000 | 8,000 | |
| Options and Stock Awards, Value | 6.7 | 4.4 | 1.1 | |
| Equity Issuance Program, Shares | 400,000 | 180,000 | 1,685,000 | |
| Equity Issuance Program, Value | 16.0 | 6.0 | 51.9 | |
| Purchase of Non-Controlling Interest, Shares | 222,000 | |||
| Purchase of Non-Controlling Interest, Value | 8.8 | |||
| Contributions to Pension, Shares | 507,600 | 463,000 | ||
| Contributions to Pension, Value | $ 20.0 | $ 12.0 | ||
| Equity Issuance Program Shares Authorized | 6,600,000 | |||
| Equity Issuance Program Shares Available for Issuance | 2,700,000 | |||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate number of shares, without par value, authorized to be issued under the distribution agreement with KCCI (equity issuance program/PIE). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of shares of common stock that remain available for issuance under the equity issuance program (KCCI distribution agreement). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares of stock issued during the period to purchase non-controlling interest. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Purchase of Non-Controlling Interest No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury and other adjustments, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of all classes of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares exclude common shares repurchased by the entity and held as treasury shares. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period from a dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP). A dividend reinvestment plan allows the shareholders to reinvest dividends paid to them by the entity on new issues of stock by the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period as a result of an employee stock purchase plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares of stock issued during the period that is attributable to transactions involving issuance of stock not separately disclosed. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), net of any shares forfeited. Shares issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of stock issued during the period from a dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP). A dividend reinvestment plan allows the holder of the stock to reinvest dividends paid to them by the entity on new issues of stock by the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate change in value for stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock purchase plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of shares of stock issued during the period that is attributable to transactions involving issuance of stock not separately disclosed. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of stock (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), net of stock value of such awards forfeited. Stock issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Common Stock and Earnings Per Share - Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Jun. 30, 2011
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Jun. 30, 2010
|
Mar. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |||||||||||
| Antidilutive Options to Purchase Shares of Common Stock Excluded from the Computation of Earnings Per Share | 0.3 | 0.5 | 0.6 | ||||||||
| Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] | |||||||||||
| Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 19.1 | $ 20.5 | $ 17.0 | $ 37.2 | $ 13.3 | $ 19.6 | $ 19.4 | $ 23.0 | $ 93.8 | $ 75.3 | $ 61.0 |
| Common Shares | 35.3 | 34.2 | 32.2 | ||||||||
| Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.53 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.49 | $ 1.07 | $ 0.38 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.68 | $ 2.66 | $ 2.20 | $ 1.89 |
| Dilutive Securities (Shares) | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0 | ||||||||
| Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] | |||||||||||
| Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 93.8 | $ 75.3 | $ 61.0 | ||||||||
| Common Shares | 35.4 | 34.3 | 32.2 | ||||||||
| Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.53 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.48 | $ 1.07 | $ 0.38 | $ 0.56 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.68 | $ 2.65 | $ 2.19 | $ 1.89 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Securities (including those issuable pursuant to contingent stock agreements) that could potentially dilute basic earnings per share (EPS) or earnings per unit (EPU) in the future that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS or EPU because to do so would increase EPS or EPU amounts or decrease loss per share or unit amounts for the period presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent, and includes adjustments resulting from the assumption that dilutive convertible securities were converted, options or warrants were exercised, or that other shares were issued upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of dilutive potential common shares or units used in the calculation of the diluted per-share or per-unit computation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Other Income (Expense) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] | |||
| AFUDC - Equity | $ 2.5 | $ 4.2 | $ 5.8 |
| Investment and Other Income (Expense) | 1.9 | 0.4 | (4.0) |
| Total Other Income | $ 4.4 | $ 4.6 | $ 1.8 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the capitalized cost of equity (based on assumed rate of return) and / or borrowed funds (based on interest rate) used to finance construction of regulated assets, which is expected to be recovered through rate adjustments. As a result of this capitalization, net income is increased. This element pertains to certain regulated industries, such as public utilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the sum of all other revenue and income recognized by the entity in the period not otherwise specified in the income statement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Income Tax Expense (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
||||||||
| Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) | $ 1.4 | [1] | $ (23.0) | [1] | $ (42.6) | [1] | ||||
| Current State Tax Expense (Benefit) | (1.6) | [1] | 1.3 | [1] | (1.8) | [1] | ||||
| Total Current Tax Expense (Benefit) | (0.2) | (21.7) | (44.4) | |||||||
| Deferred Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) | 27.3 | [2] | 61.4 | [2] | 66.0 | [2] | ||||
| Deferred State Tax Expense (Benefit) | 9.5 | [2] | 5.3 | [2] | 10.3 | [2] | ||||
| Change in Valuation Allowance | (0.1) | 0.2 | (0.1) | |||||||
| Investment Tax Credit Amortization | (0.9) | (0.9) | (1.0) | |||||||
| Total Deferred Tax Expense | 35.8 | 66.0 | 75.2 | |||||||
| Total Income Tax Expense | 35.6 | 44.3 | 30.8 | |||||||
|
DTA Tax Charge, Elimination of Medicare Part D [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | 0 | 4.0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Income Tax Benefit, MPUC Approval of Deferral of PPACA [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | (2.9) | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
DTL Reversal, Revenue Receivable Forgone [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | $ (6.2) | $ 0 | $ 0 | |||||||
|
||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of income tax expense for the period representing amounts paid or payable (or refundable) as determined by applying the provisions of enacted federal tax law to the domestic taxable Income or Loss from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of income tax expense for the period representing amounts of income taxes paid or payable (or refundable) for the period for all income tax obligations as determined by applying the provisions of relevant enacted tax laws to relevant amounts of taxable Income or Loss from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of income tax expense for the period representing amounts paid or payable (or refundable) as determined by applying the provisions of enacted state and local tax law to relevant amounts of taxable Income or Loss from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of total income tax expense for the period comprised of the increase (decrease) during the period in the entity's domestic deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to continuing operations as determined by applying the provisions of the federally enacted tax law. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of income tax expense for the period representing the increase (decrease) in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change during the period in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to continuing operations as determined by applying enacted tax laws other than federal, domestic, foreign, state or local. Items affecting deferred income taxes and required to be disclosed, but not included elsewhere, would also be designated as "Other"; for example, adjustments of a deferred tax liability or asset for enacted changes in tax laws or rates or a change in the tax status of the entity and adjustments to be beginning-of-year balance of a valuation allowance because of a change in circumstance that causes a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset in future periods. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of total income tax expense for the period comprised of the increase (decrease) in the entity's state and local deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to continuing operations as determined by applying the provisions of the applicable enacted tax laws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of the current income tax expense or benefit and the deferred income tax expense or benefit pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the effects of adjustments of previously recorded tax expense, significant settlements of income tax disputes, and unusual tax positions or infrequent actions taken by the entity, including tax assessment reversal, IRS tax settlement and unusual repatriation of foreign earnings. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the change in the period in the valuation allowance for a specified deferred tax asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Income Tax Expense - Reconciliation of Taxes from Federal Statutory Rate to Total Income Tax Expense (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items] | |||
| Income Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | $ 129.2 | $ 119.1 | $ 91.5 |
| Statutory Federal Income Tax Rate | 35.00% | 35.00% | 35.00% |
| Income Taxes Computed at 35 Percent Statutory Federal Rate | 45.2 | 41.7 | 32.0 |
| State Income Taxes - Net of Federal Income Tax Benefit | 6.0 | 4.5 | 5.4 |
| Regulatory Differences for Utility Plant | (1.2) | (2.0) | (2.5) |
| Production Tax Credit | (4.3) | (1.6) | (1.2) |
| Other | (1.0) | (2.3) | (2.9) |
| Income Tax Expense | 35.6 | 44.3 | 30.8 |
| Effective Income Tax Rate | 27.60% | 37.20% | 33.70% |
|
DTA Tax Charge, Elimination of Medicare Part D [Member]
|
|||
| Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items] | |||
| Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | 0 | 4.0 | 0 |
|
DTL Reversal, Revenue Receivable Forgone [Member]
|
|||
| Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items] | |||
| Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | (6.2) | 0 | 0 |
|
Income Tax Benefit, MPUC Approval of Deferral of PPACA [Member]
|
|||
| Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items] | |||
| Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | $ (2.9) | $ 0 | $ 0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Regulatory Differences contributing to difference in effective tax rate to federal statutory rate. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A ratio calculated by dividing the reported amount of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations for the period by GAAP-basis pretax income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The domestic federal statutory tax rate applicable under enacted tax laws to the Company's pretax income from continuing operations for the period. The "statutory" tax rate is the regular tax rate if there are alternative tax systems. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses from ongoing operations, after income or loss from equity method investments, but before income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of the current income tax expense or benefit and the deferred income tax expense or benefit pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of income tax expense or benefit for the period computed by applying the domestic federal statutory tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of the difference, between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the year/accounting period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations, that is attributable to all other items not otherwise listed in the existing taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of the difference, between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations, that is attributable to state and local income tax expense or benefit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to other tax credits generated or utilized under enacted tax laws during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the effects of adjustments of previously recorded tax expense, significant settlements of income tax disputes, and unusual tax positions or infrequent actions taken by the entity, including tax assessment reversal, IRS tax settlement and unusual repatriation of foreign earnings. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Income Tax Expense - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Employee Benefits and Compensation | $ 132.7 | $ 121.8 | ||||
| Property Related | 56.4 | 51.1 | ||||
| NOL and Tax Credit Carryforward | 78.1 | 28.2 | ||||
| Investment Tax Credits | 9.0 | 9.7 | ||||
| Other | 7.2 | 12.7 | ||||
| Gross Deferred Tax Assets | 283.4 | 223.5 | ||||
| Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance | (0.4) | (0.5) | ||||
| Total Deferred Tax Assets | 283.0 | 223.0 | ||||
| Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||
| Property Related | 482.7 | 387.2 | ||||
| Regulatory Asset for Benefit Obligations | 117.9 | 105.8 | ||||
| Unamortized Investment Tax Credits | 12.8 | 13.7 | ||||
| Partnership Basis Differences | 24.4 | 19.4 | ||||
| Other | 24.0 | 27.3 | ||||
| Total Deferred Tax Liabilities | 661.8 | 553.4 | ||||
| Net Deferred Income Taxes | 378.8 | 330.4 | ||||
| Net Current Deferred Tax Liabilities | 5.2 | [1] | 5.2 | [1] | ||
| Net Long-Term Deferred Tax Liabilities | $ 373.6 | $ 325.2 | ||||
|
||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Deferred Tax Asset, Property Related No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Deferred Tax Liability, Unamortized Investment Tax Credits No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Deferred Tax Liabilty, Partnership Basis Differences No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
NOL and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Deferred Tax Asset No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of the tax effects as of the balance sheet date of the amounts of all future tax deductions arising from temporary differences between tax basis and generally accepted accounting principles basis recognition of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when permitted under enacted tax laws ( before the valuation allowance, if any, to reduce such sum amount to net realizable value). Includes any tax benefit realized in deferred tax assets for significant impacts of tax planning strategies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For entities that net deferred tax assets and tax liabilities, represents the unclassified net amount of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of the balance sheet date, which result from applying the applicable enacted tax rate to net temporary differences and carryforwards pertaining to assets or liabilities. A temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its carrying amount in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles that will reverse in ensuing periods. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate tax effects as of the balance sheet date of all future tax deductions arising from temporary differences between tax basis and generally accepted accounting principles basis recognition of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when permitted under enacted tax laws; net of deducting the allocated valuation allowance, if any, to reduce such amount to net realizable value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of estimated future tax deductions arising from other temporary differences not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of future tax deductions arising from unused tax credit carryforwards of a nature not otherwise listed in the existing taxonomy. A tax credit carryforward is the amount by which tax credits available for utilization exceeded statutory limits on inclusion in historical filings, and which can only be utilized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods and providing tax laws continue to allow such utilization. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions arising from employee compensation costs, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when actual costs are incurred, and which can only be realized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of the portions of deferred tax assets as of the balance sheet date for which, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not will not be realized through future reductions of tax-based income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cumulative amount of all deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of an asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles that will result in taxable amounts in one or more future periods. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Represents the current portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A current taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of a current asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In a classified statement of financial position, an enterprise separates deferred tax liabilities and assets into a current amount and a noncurrent amount. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, is classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Represents the noncurrent portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A noncurrent taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of a noncurrent asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In a classified statement of financial position, an enterprise separates deferred tax liabilities and assets into a current amount and a noncurrent amount. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cumulative amount of the estimated future tax effects attributable to other temporary differences not otherwise specified in this taxonomy that were expensed for tax purposes but capitalized in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, or which were recognized as revenue under GAAP but not for tax purposes, which will reverse in future periods. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects attributable to the difference between the tax basis of capital assets and the basis of capital assets computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The difference in basis, attributable to different capitalization of costs, depreciation, or amortization methodologies, will increase future taxable income when such basis difference is realized. Capital assets include but are not limited to assets such as land, real estate, leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment and furniture and fixtures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects attributable to the difference between the tax basis and the basis in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles of regulatory assets which will increase future taxable income when such basis difference reverses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Income Tax Expense - NOL and Tax Credit Carryforwards (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Federal [Member]
|
||||||||
| NOL and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Line Items] | ||||||||
| NOL Carryforward | $ 162.0 | [1] | $ 62.0 | [1] | ||||
| Tax Credit Carryforwards | 8.4 | 3.7 | ||||||
| Charitable Contributions Carryforward | 3.0 | |||||||
|
State [Member]
|
||||||||
| NOL and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Line Items] | ||||||||
| NOL Carryforward | 73.1 | [1],[2] | 71.7 | [1],[2] | ||||
| Tax Credit Carryforwards | 3.8 | 1.7 | ||||||
| Charitable Contributions Carryforward | $ 2.8 | |||||||
|
||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of domestic, foreign and state and local operating loss carryforwards, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the tax credit carryforward, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the tax credit carryforward, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Income Tax Expense - Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Abstract] | |||
| Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate | $ 0.6 | ||
| Accrued Interest | 1.1 | 0.7 | 0.9 |
| Interest Expense | 0.4 | 0.2 | 0.4 |
| Penalties | 0 | ||
| Reasonably Possible Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits in Next 12 Months | 5.0 | ||
| Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] | |||
| Balance at January 1 | 12.3 | 9.5 | 8.0 |
| Additions for Tax Positions Related to the Current Year | 0 | 0 | 0.5 |
| Reductions for Tax Positions Related to the Current Year | 0 | (0.2) | 0 |
| Additions for Tax Positions Related to Prior Years | 0 | 4.4 | 1.0 |
| Reduction for Tax Positions Related to Prior Years | (0.9) | 0 | 0 |
| Settlements | 0 | (0.3) | 0 |
| Lapse of Statute | 0 | (1.1) | 0 |
| Balance as of December 31 | $ 11.4 | $ 12.3 | $ 9.5 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the unrecognized tax benefit of a position taken for which it is reasonably possible that the total amount thereof will significantly increase or decrease within twelve months of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits pertaining to uncertain tax positions taken in tax returns as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The gross amount of decreases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from tax positions that have been or will be taken in the tax return for the current period, excluding amounts pertaining to examined tax returns. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The gross amount of decreases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from tax positions taken in prior period tax returns, excluding amounts pertaining to examined tax returns. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The gross amount of decreases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from settlements with taxing authorities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the recognized expense for the amount of statutory penalties in the period in which the entity claims or expects to claim a tax position, in its tax return, that does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid payment of penalties or, if not recognizing the expense in the period in which the tax return was initially filed, the expense is generally recognized in the period in which the enterprise's judgment about meeting the minimum statutory threshold changes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The gross amount of increases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from tax positions that have been or will be taken in the tax return for the current period, excluding amounts pertaining to examined tax returns. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The gross amount of increases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from tax positions taken in prior period tax returns, excluding amounts pertaining to examined tax returns. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the amount of interest expense accrued as of the date of the statement of financial position for an underpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents interest expense recognized for an underpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The gross amount of decreases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from lapses of the applicable statutes of limitations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] | |||
| Unrealized Loss on Securities | $ (1.3) | $ (1.0) | |
| Unrealized Loss on Derivatives | (0.3) | 0 | |
| Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans | (27.3) | (22.2) | |
| Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (28.9) | (23.2) | |
| Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] | |||
| Net Income | 93.6 | 74.8 | 60.7 |
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] | |||
| Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities Net of income taxes of $(0.1), $0.6, and $1.7 | (0.3) | 0.8 | 2.8 |
| Unrealized Loss on Derivatives Net of income taxes of $(0.2) $-, and $- | (0.3) | 0 | 0 |
| Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Net of income taxes of $(3.6), $-, and $4.1 | (5.1) | 0 | 6.2 |
| Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | (5.7) | 0.8 | 9.0 |
| Total Comprehensive Income | 87.9 | 75.6 | 69.7 |
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | (0.2) | (0.5) | (0.3) |
| Comprehensive Income Attributable to ALLETE | 88.1 | 76.1 | 70.0 |
| Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities, Income Taxes | (0.1) | 0.6 | 1.7 |
| Unrealized Loss on Derivatives, Income Taxes | (0.2) | 0 | 0 |
| Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Income Taxes | $ (3.6) | $ 0 | $ 4.1 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Accumulated appreciation or loss, net of tax, in value of the total of available-for-sale securities at the end of an accounting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Accumulated change, net of tax, in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total of net gain (loss), prior service cost (credit), and transition assets (obligations), as well as minimum pension liability if still remaining, included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they have yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the reporting entity. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, but excludes any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the economic entity, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) in accumulated comprehensive income during the period related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans, after tax. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tax effects of the increase (decrease) to accumulated comprehensive income during the period related to benefit plans. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents Other Comprehensive Income or Loss, Net of Tax, for the period. Includes deferred gains or losses on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains or losses on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tax effect on the change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Appreciation or loss in value (before reclassification adjustment) of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on, net of tax. Reclassification adjustments include: (1) the unrealized holding gain (loss), net of tax, at the date of the transfer for a debt security from the held-to-maturity category transferred into the available-for-sale category. Also includes the unrealized gain (loss) at the date of transfer for a debt security from the available-for-sale category transferred into the held-to-maturity category; (2) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the sale of securities, after tax; and (3) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tax effect on gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Contributions (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 24 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Pension [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Pension [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
VEBA [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
VEBA [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Grantor Trust [Member]
|
|
| Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||
| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions | $ 33.8 | $ 26.5 | $ 10.9 | $ 12.8 | $ 0 | ||
| Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan | 20.0 | ||||||
| Contributions by Employer through ESOP | 7.3 | 7.2 | |||||
| Estimated Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year | $ 1.0 | $ 13.9 | |||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer through ESOP No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The employer's best estimate, as soon as it can be reasonably determined, of contributions expected to be paid to the plan during the next fiscal year beginning after the date of the latest statement of financial position. Estimated contributions may be presented in the aggregate combining (1) contributions required by funding regulations or laws, (2) discretionary contributions, and (3) noncash contributions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash or cash equivalents contributed during the reporting period by the entity to fund its pension plans and its non-pension postretirement benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
|
|
Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Obligation and Funded Status (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | |||
| Non-Current Liabilities | $ 253.5 | $ 231.4 | |
|
Pension [Member]
|
|||
| Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
| Accumulated Benefit Obligation | 550.6 | 485.6 | |
| Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] | |||
| Obligation, Beginning of Year | 525.6 | 465.2 | |
| Service Cost | 7.6 | 6.2 | 5.7 |
| Interest Cost | 27.4 | 26.2 | 26.2 |
| Actuarial Loss (Gain) | 54.6 | 47.1 | |
| Benefits Paid | (28.6) | (27.2) | |
| Participant Contributions | 10.9 | 8.1 | |
| Obligation, End of Year | 597.5 | 525.6 | 465.2 |
| Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | |||
| Fair Value, Beginning of Year | 382.0 | 327.6 | |
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | 33.1 | 45.6 | |
| Employer Contribution | 45.8 | 36.0 | |
| Benefits Paid | (28.5) | (27.2) | |
| Fair Value, End of Year | 432.4 | 382.0 | 327.6 |
| Funded Status, End of Year | (165.1) | (143.6) | |
| Current Liabilities | (1.1) | (0.8) | |
| Non-Current Liabilities | (164.0) | (142.8) | |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
|||
| Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] | |||
| Obligation, Beginning of Year | 204.1 | 192.1 | |
| Service Cost | 3.8 | 4.8 | 4.1 |
| Interest Cost | 10.8 | 10.9 | 10.0 |
| Actuarial Loss (Gain) | (2.9) | 17.6 | |
| Benefits Paid | (7.7) | (9.2) | |
| Participant Contributions | 2.5 | 2.1 | |
| Plan Amendments | 0 | (14.2) | |
| Obligation, End of Year | 210.6 | 204.1 | 192.1 |
| Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | |||
| Fair Value, Beginning of Year | 114.7 | 96.4 | |
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | 0 | 12.0 | |
| Employer Contribution | 11.4 | 13.4 | |
| Participant Contributions | 2.5 | 2.0 | |
| Benefits Paid | (7.6) | (9.1) | |
| Fair Value, End of Year | 121.0 | 114.7 | 96.4 |
| Funded Status, End of Year | (89.6) | (89.4) | |
| Current Liabilities | (0.9) | (0.8) | |
| Non-Current Liabilities | (88.7) | (88.6) | |
|
Grantor Trust [Member]
|
|||
| Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | |||
| Other Investments | $ 20.3 | $ 19.8 | |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid, Excluding Key Employees No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Defined Benefit Plan Contributions by Plan Participants, Excluding Key Employees No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For defined benefit pension plans, the actuarial present value of benefits (whether vested or nonvested) attributed by the pension benefit formula to employee service rendered before a specified date and based on employee service and compensation (if applicable) before that date. The accumulated benefit obligation differs from the projected benefit obligation in that it includes no assumption about future compensation levels. For plans with flat-benefit or nonpay-related pension benefit formulas, the accumulated benefit obligation and the projected benefit obligation are the same. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The difference between fair value of plan assets at the end of the period and the fair value at the beginning of the period, adjusted for contributions and payments of benefits during the period, and after adjusting for taxes and other expenses, as applicable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net increase or decrease of changes in the value of either the benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption, or the consequence of a decision to temporarily deviate from the substantive plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
1) For defined benefit pension plans, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation, which is the actuarial present value as of a date of all benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to employee service rendered prior to that date. 2) For other postretirement defined benefit plans, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation, which is the actuarial present value of benefits attributed to employee service rendered to a particular date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of payments made for which participants are entitled under a pension plan, including pension benefits, death benefits, and benefits due on termination of employment. Also includes payments made under a postretirement benefit plan, including prescription drug benefits, health care benefits, life insurance benefits, and legal, educational and advisory services. This item represents a periodic decrease to the plan obligations and a decrease to plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase in the fair value of plan assets from contributions made by the employer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of contributions made by plan participants. This item represents a periodic increase to the plan obligation and an increase to plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Assets, usually stocks, bonds, and other investments, that have been segregated and restricted (usually in a trust) to provide benefits, at their fair value as of the measurement date. Plan assets include amounts contributed by the employer (and by employees for a contributory plan) and amounts earned from investing the contributions, less benefits paid. If a plan has liabilities other than for benefits, those non-benefit obligations may be considered as reductions of plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligation. Will normally be the same as the net Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet, Total. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase in a defined benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligation or a defined benefit postretirement plan's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation due to the passage of time. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of increase or decrease due to a change in the terms of an existing plan or the initiation of a new plan. A plan amendment may increase or decrease benefits, including those attributed to years of service already rendered. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period. The portion of the expected postretirement benefit obligation attributed to employee service during the period. The service cost component is a portion of the benefit obligation and is unaffected by the funded status of the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Other investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For a classified balance sheet, the amount recognized in balance sheet as a current liability associated with an underfunded defined benefit plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This represents the noncurrent liability for underfunded plans recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement defined benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Costs (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|---|---|---|
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | ||
| Total Unrecognized Costs | $ 27.3 | $ 22.2 |
|
Pension [Member]
|
||
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | ||
| Net Loss | 269.0 | 225.1 |
| Prior Service Cost | 1.1 | 1.4 |
| Total Unrecognized Costs | 270.1 | 226.5 |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
||
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | ||
| Net Loss | 78.5 | 80.1 |
| Prior Service Cost | (9.5) | (11.2) |
| Transition Obligation | 0.1 | 0.2 |
| Total Unrecognized Costs | $ 69.1 | $ 69.1 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total of net gain (loss), prior service cost (credit), and transition assets (obligations), as well as minimum pension liability if still remaining, included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they have yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The pretax net amount of gains and losses that are not yet recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost, and that are recognized as increases or decreases in other comprehensive income as they arise. Gains and losses are due to changes in the value of either the benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption, or the consequence of a decision to temporarily deviate from the substantive plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount related to the pretax cost of benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation, which has not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Of the original amount of transition assets as of the date FAS 87 or 106 was initially applied, (a) the fair value of plan assets plus any recognized accrued pension or other postretirement benefit cost or less any recognized prepaid pension or other postretirement benefit cost in excess of (b) the benefit obligation, the portion of which has yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Of the original amount of transition obligations as of the date FAS 87 or 106 was initially applied, (a) the benefit obligation in excess of (b) the fair value of plan assets plus any recognized accrued pension or other postretirement benefit cost or less any recognized prepaid pension or other postretirement benefit cost, the portion of which has yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. This amount is pretax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Components of Net Periodic Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Expense (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
|
Pension [Member]
|
|||
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | |||
| Service Cost | $ 7.6 | $ 6.2 | $ 5.7 |
| Interest Cost | 27.4 | 26.2 | 26.2 |
| Expected Return on Plan Assets | (34.6) | (33.7) | (33.8) |
| Amortization of Loss | 12.1 | 6.6 | 3.4 |
| Amortization of Prior Service Costs | 0.3 | 0.5 | 0.6 |
| Net Expense | 12.8 | 5.8 | 2.1 |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
|||
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | |||
| Service Cost | 3.8 | 4.8 | 4.1 |
| Interest Cost | 10.8 | 10.9 | 10.0 |
| Expected Return on Plan Assets | (9.7) | (9.5) | (8.3) |
| Amortization of Loss | 8.5 | 4.8 | 2.5 |
| Amortization of Prior Service Costs | (1.7) | (0.1) | 0 |
| Amortization of Transition Obligation | 0.1 | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Net Expense | $ 11.8 | $ 13.4 | $ 10.8 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the transition obligation or asset recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
An amount calculated as a basis for determining the extent of delayed recognition of the effects of changes in the fair value of assets. The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and the market-related value of plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase in a defined benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligation or a defined benefit postretirement plan's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation due to the passage of time. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the period. Periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period. The portion of the expected postretirement benefit obligation attributed to employee service during the period. The service cost component is a portion of the benefit obligation and is unaffected by the funded status of the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Other Changes in Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income and Regulatory Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|
|
Pension [Member]
|
||
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | ||
| Net Loss | $ 56.1 | $ 35.2 |
| Amortization of Prior Service Cost | (0.3) | (0.5) |
| Amortization of Gain (Loss) | (12.2) | (6.6) |
| Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income and Regulatory Assets | 43.6 | 28.1 |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
||
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | ||
| Net Loss | 6.9 | 15.3 |
| Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period | 0 | (14.2) |
| Amortization of Prior Service Cost | 1.7 | 0.1 |
| Amortization of Transition Obligation | (0.1) | (2.5) |
| Amortization of Gain (Loss) | (8.5) | (4.8) |
| Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income and Regulatory Assets | $ 0 | $ (6.1) |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in other comprehensive income due to the amortization of the net prior service costs (credit) into net periodic pension costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The pretax cost (credit) of benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service resulting from a plan amendment or plan initiation that occurred during the period. The cost has not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost. A plan amendment includes provisions that grant increased (decreased) benefits based on service rendered in prior periods. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amounts recognized in other comprehensive income (but not yet recognized in net periodic benefit cost), including the net gain (loss) and net prior service cost (credit) arising during the period. Also includes reclassification adjustments out of other comprehensive income as a result of being recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost for the period. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Pretax change in the value of either the benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption, or the consequence of a decision to temporarily deviate from the substantive plan, that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net transition asset or obligation recognized, before tax, as a reclassification adjustment of other comprehensive income as a result of being recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net gain (loss) previously recognized in other comprehensive income that is a reclassification adjustment of other comprehensive income as a result of being recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Information for Pension Plans with an Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets (Details) (Pension [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|---|---|---|
|
Pension [Member]
|
||
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | ||
| Projected Benefit Obligation | $ 597.5 | $ 525.6 |
| Accumulated Benefit Obligation | 550.6 | 485.6 |
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | $ 432.4 | $ 382.0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
If aggregate disclosures are presented, the aggregate pension accumulated benefit obligation for pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets as of the measurement date of each statement of financial position presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
If aggregate disclosures are presented, the aggregate fair value of plan assets for pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets as of the measurement date of each statement of financial position presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
If aggregate disclosures are presented, the aggregate projected benefit obligation for pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets as of the measurement date of each statement of financial position presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Estimated Future Benefit Payments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|---|---|
|
Pension [Member]
|
|
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | |
| 2012 | $ 29.2 |
| 2013 | 30.0 |
| 2014 | 31.2 |
| 2015 | 32.3 |
| 2016 | 33.4 |
| Years 2017 - 2021 | 181.4 |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
|
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | |
| 2012 | 8.3 |
| 2013 | 9.2 |
| 2014 | 10.2 |
| 2015 | 11.2 |
| 2016 | 11.9 |
| Years 2017 - 2021 | $ 66.6 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the aggregate benefits expected to be paid in the five fiscal years thereafter (the aggregate amount of benefits expected to be paid in years 6 through 10 after the date of the latest statement of financial position). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the benefits expected to be paid in Year 5. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the benefits expected to be paid in Year 4. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the benefits expected to be paid in Year 1. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the benefits expected to be paid in Year 3. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the benefits expected to be paid in Year 2. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Costs Recorded in Other Long-Term Assets and AOCI Expected to be Recognized as a Component of Net Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs in the Next Fiscal Year (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2012
|
|
|
Pension [Member]
|
|
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | |
| Net Loss | $ 17.5 |
| Prior Service Costs | 0.3 |
| Transition Obligations | 0 |
| Total Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Costs | 17.8 |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
|
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | |
| Net Loss | 7.5 |
| Prior Service Costs | (1.7) |
| Transition Obligations | 0.1 |
| Total Pension and Postretirement Health and Life Costs | $ 5.9 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income related to gains and losses that are not recognized immediately and are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year that follows the most recent annual statement of financial position presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income related to prior service cost or credit expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year that follows the most recent annual statement of financial position presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income related to transition assets (obligations), origination from the adoption of FAS 87 and 106, expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year that follows the most recent annual statement of financial position presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount in accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost over the fiscal year that follows the most recent annual statement of financial position presented, including the net gain (loss), net prior service cost or credit, and net transition asset or obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation and Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Details)
|
12 Months Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2012
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
||||||
| Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Rate of Compensation Increase | 4.3 - 4.6% | 4.3 - 4.6% | |||||||
| Trend Rate | 10.00% | 10.00% | |||||||
| Ultimate Trend Rate | 5.00% | 5.00% | |||||||
| Year Ultimate Trend Rate Effective | 2018 | 2018 | |||||||
| Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Costs [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Discount Rate (Range) | 5.36 - 5.40% | ||||||||
| Discount Rate | 5.81% | 6.12% | |||||||
| Rate of Compensation Increase | 4.3 - 4.6% | 4.3 - 4.6% | 4.3 - 4.6% | ||||||
| Revised Expected Long-term Rate of Return | 8.25% | ||||||||
|
Pension [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Discount Rate | 4.54% | 5.36% | |||||||
| Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Costs [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Revised Expected Long-term Rate of Return | 8.50% | [1] | 8.50% | [1] | 8.50% | [1] | |||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Discount Rate | 4.56% | 5.40% | |||||||
| Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Costs [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Expected Long-Term Return on Plan Assets | 6.8 - 8.5% | [1] | 6.8 - 8.5% | [1] | 6.8 - 8.5% | [1] | |||
|
|||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase (Percentage Range) Text Item Type No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets (Percentage Range) Text item type No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase (Percentage Range) Text item type No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Expense, Discount Rate (Range) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The interest rate used to adjust for the time value of money for the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The interest rate used to adjust for the time value of money. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The assumed health care cost trend rate for the next year used to measure the expected cost of benefits covered by the plan (gross eligible charges). This is based upon the annual rate of change in the cost of health care benefits currently provided by the postretirement benefit plan, due to factors other than changes in the composition of the plan population by age and dependency status. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The ultimate trend rate for health care costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The year when the ultimate health care cost trend rate is expected to be reached. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Sensitivity of a One-Percentage-Point Change in Health Care Trend Rates (Details) (Postretirement Health and Life [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
|
| Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] | |
| Effect of One Percent Increase on Total of Postretirement Health and Life Service and Interest Cost | $ 2.0 |
| Effect of One Percent Decrease on Total of Postretirement Health and Life Service and Interest Cost | (1.6) |
| Effect of One Percent Increase on Postretirement Health and Life Obligation | 25.1 |
| Effect of One Percent Decrease on Postretirement Health and Life Obligation | $ (20.7) |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effect of a one-percentage-point decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rates on the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for health care benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effect of a one-percentage- point decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rates on the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement health care benefit costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effect of a one-percentage-point increase in the assumed health care cost trend rates on the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for health care benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effect of a one-percentage-point increase in the assumed health care cost trend rates on the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement health care benefit costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Plan Asset Allocations (Details)
|
12 Months Ended | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|||||
| Plan Asset Target Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| ALLETE Common Stock Included in Pension Plan Equity Securities | 20,000,000 | 0 | ||||
| Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Benefit Plan | 507,600 | |||||
|
Pension [Member]
|
||||||
| Plan Asset Target Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Equity Securities Target Allocation | 52.00% | |||||
| Debt Securities Target Allocation | 30.00% | |||||
| Real Estate Target Allocation | 9.00% | |||||
| Private Equity Target Allocation | 9.00% | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 52.00% | 52.00% | ||||
|
Pension [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 27.00% | 29.00% | ||||
|
Pension [Member] | Real Estate [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 5.00% | 5.00% | ||||
|
Pension [Member] | Private Equity [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 16.00% | 14.00% | ||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
||||||
| Plan Asset Target Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Equity Securities Target Allocation | 48.00% | [1] | ||||
| Debt Securities Target Allocation | 34.00% | [1] | ||||
| Real Estate Target Allocation | 9.00% | [1] | ||||
| Private Equity Target Allocation | 9.00% | [1] | ||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 51.00% | [1] | 58.00% | [1] | ||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 39.00% | [1] | 33.00% | [1] | ||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Real Estate [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 0.00% | [1] | 0.00% | [1] | ||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Private Equity [Member]
|
||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] | ||||||
| Actual Plan Asset Allocation | 10.00% | [1] | 9.00% | [1] | ||
|
||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of employer shares or related party shares included in plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Target allocation percentage of investments in debt securities to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Target allocation percentage of investments in equity securities to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Target allocation percentage in other than debt securities, equity securities, and real estate to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Target allocation percentage of investments in real estate to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate percentage of the fair value of investments (categorized by debt securities, equity securities, real estate and other plan assets) to the fair value of total plan assets held as of the measurement date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
|
|
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Recurring Fair Value Measures (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Pension [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | $ 432.4 | $ 382.0 | $ 327.6 | ||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 152.8 | 104.6 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 188.9 | 199.9 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 90.7 | 77.5 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 432.4 | 382.0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 32.1 | [1] | 30.4 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 37.3 | [1] | 29.9 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | [1] | 3.5 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 69.4 | [1] | 63.8 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 13.5 | [1] | 14.0 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 15.8 | [1] | 13.7 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | [1] | 1.6 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 29.3 | [1] | 29.3 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 13.1 | [1] | 13.7 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 15.2 | [1] | 13.5 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | [1] | 1.6 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 28.3 | [1] | 28.8 | [2] | |||||
|
Pension [Member] | International [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | International [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 75.1 | 77.1 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | International [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | International [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 75.1 | 77.1 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Allete [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 21.3 | ||||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Allete [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | ||||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Allete [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | ||||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Allete [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 21.3 | ||||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 72.8 | 46.5 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 72.8 | 46.5 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 45.5 | 65.7 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 45.5 | 65.7 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 69.0 | 50.7 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 69.0 | 50.7 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 21.7 | 20.1 | |||||||
|
Pension [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 21.7 | 20.1 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 121.0 | 114.7 | 96.4 | ||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 88.1 | 74.4 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 18.9 | 27.9 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 14.0 | 12.4 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 121.0 | 114.7 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 15.9 | 15.7 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 15.9 | 15.7 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 11.5 | 11.4 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Mid-Cap Growth [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 11.5 | 11.4 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 11.2 | 11.5 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | U.S. Small Cap [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 11.2 | 11.5 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | International [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 25.1 | 26.8 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | International [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | International [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | International [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 25.1 | 26.8 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 24.1 | 9.0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 24.1 | 9.0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0.3 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 18.9 | 27.9 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 19.2 | 27.9 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | 14.0 | 12.4 | |||||||
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member] | Total [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Fair Value of Plan Assets | $ 14.0 | $ 12.4 | |||||||
|
|||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Assets, usually stocks, bonds, and other investments, that have been segregated and restricted (usually in a trust) to provide benefits, at their fair value as of the measurement date. Plan assets include amounts contributed by the employer (and by employees for a contributory plan) and amounts earned from investing the contributions, less benefits paid. If a plan has liabilities other than for benefits, those non-benefit obligations may be considered as reductions of plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Activity in Level 3 (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|
|
Pension [Member]
|
||
| Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] | ||
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | $ 33.1 | $ 45.6 |
|
Pension [Member] | Equity Securities (Auction Rate Securities) [Member]
|
||
| Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] | ||
| Beginning Balance | 6.7 | 9.1 |
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | 0 | 0 |
| Purchases, Sales and Settlements, Net | (6.7) | (2.4) |
| Ending Balance | 0 | 6.7 |
|
Pension [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member]
|
||
| Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] | ||
| Beginning Balance | 50.7 | 44.7 |
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | 30.9 | (4.1) |
| Purchases, Sales and Settlements, Net | (12.6) | 10.1 |
| Ending Balance | 69.0 | 50.7 |
|
Pension [Member] | Real Estate [Member]
|
||
| Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] | ||
| Beginning Balance | 20.1 | 17.3 |
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | 3.5 | (6.1) |
| Purchases, Sales and Settlements, Net | (1.9) | 8.9 |
| Ending Balance | 21.7 | 20.1 |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member]
|
||
| Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] | ||
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | 0 | 12.0 |
|
Postretirement Health and Life [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member]
|
||
| Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] | ||
| Beginning Balance | 12.4 | 9.4 |
| Actual Return on Plan Assets | 1.1 | 1.4 |
| Purchases, Sales and Settlements, Net | 0.5 | 1.6 |
| Ending Balance | $ 14.0 | $ 12.4 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The difference between fair value of plan assets at the end of the period and the fair value at the beginning of the period, adjusted for contributions and payments of benefits during the period, and after adjusting for taxes and other expenses, as applicable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Employee Stock and Incentive Plans - Employee Stock Ownership Plan (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Employee Stock and Incentive Plans [Abstract] | |||
| ESOP Employer Loan, Description | In 1990, the ESOP issued a $75.0 million note (term not to exceed 25 years at 10.25 percent) to use as consideration for 2.8 million shares (1.9 million shares adjusted for stock splits) of our newly issued common stock. The note was refinanced in 2006 at 6 percent. | ||
| ESOP Compensation Expense | $ 7.4 | $ 7.1 | $ 6.5 |
| Allocated | 2.2 | 2.2 | 2.2 |
| Unallocated | 1.0 | 1.3 | 1.5 |
| Total | 3.2 | 3.5 | 3.7 |
| Fair Value of Unallocated Shares | $ 42.0 | $ 48.4 | $ 49.0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of plan compensation cost recognized during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sets forth the terms of the arrangement, including interest rate and repayment requirements, in which the employer lends funds to the ESOP. The loan amount is not required to be externally reported. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The fair value of shares held by the ESOP as of the balance sheet date in which no ESOP participant has a vested interest and no lender has a claim. The fair value of an ESOP share is the amount the seller could reasonably expect to receive for it in a current sale between a willing buyer and a willing seller, that is, other than in a forced or liquidation sale, which would be the market price of the stock if it is publicly traded. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The shares or units in an ESOP trust that have been assigned to individual participant accounts based on a known formula. IRS rules require allocations to be nondiscriminatory generally based on compensation, length of service, or a combination of both. For any particular participant such shares or units may be vested, unvested, or partially vested. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Shares contributed to the ESOP that have not yet been released, committed to be released, or allocated to participant accounts. Suspense shares generally collateralize ESOP debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the allocated, committed-to-be-released and suspense shares of the entity held by the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Employee Stock and Incentive Plans - Stock-Based Compensation (Details)
|
12 Months Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Years
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
Dec. 31, 2008
|
||||||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Grants under Director Plan | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | |||
| Options Outstanding | 460,234 | 560,887 | 646,235 | 672,419 | |||||
| PSA Performance Period | 3 | ||||||||
| RSU Vesting Period | 3 | ||||||||
| ESPP Discount | 5.00% | ||||||||
|
Long-Term Incentive Compensation, Director Plan [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Grants under Director Plan | 0 | ||||||||
| Options Outstanding | 1,293 | ||||||||
|
Long-Term Incentive Compensation, Executive Plan [Member]
|
|||||||||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||||||
| Common Stock Reserved | 1,300,000 | ||||||||
| Shares Available for Issuance | 600,000 | ||||||||
|
|||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Performance Period Length (usually in years) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate number of common shares reserved for future issuance. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Description of the period of time over which an employee's right to exercise an award is no longer contingent on satisfaction of either a service condition, market condition or a performance condition, which may be expressed in a variety of ways (for example, in years, month and year). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The discount rate from market value on purchase date that participants pay for shares. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The difference between the maximum number of shares (or other type of equity) authorized for issuance under the plan (including the effects of amendments and adjustments), and the sum of: 1) the number of shares (or other type of equity) already issued upon exercise of options or other equity-based awards under the plan; and 2) shares (or other type of equity) reserved for issuance on granting of outstanding awards, net of cancellations and forfeitures, if applicable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net number of share options (or share units) granted during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of shares reserved for issuance under stock option agreements awarded under the plan that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date, including vested options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Employee Stock and Incentive Plans - Share-Based Compensation Expense (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-Based Compensation Expense | $ 1.6 | $ 2.2 | $ 2.1 |
| Income Tax Benefit | 0.7 | 0.9 | 0.8 |
| Capitalized Stock-Based Compensation Expense | 0 | ||
|
Stock Options [Member]
|
|||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-Based Compensation Expense | 0 | 0.1 | 0.3 |
|
Performance Shares Awards [Member]
|
|||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-Based Compensation Expense | 1.1 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
| Unrecognized Compensation Cost | 1.3 | ||
| Weighted Average Period for Recognition | 1.7 | ||
|
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
|
|||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-Based Compensation Expense | 0.5 | 0.6 | 0.3 |
| Unrecognized Compensation Cost | $ 0.6 | ||
| Weighted Average Period for Recognition | 1.6 | ||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Represents the compensation cost capitalized during the period arising from equity-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, units, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
As of the balance sheet date, the aggregate unrecognized cost of equity-based awards made to employees under equity-based compensation awards that have yet to vest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average period over which unrecognized compensation is expected to be recognized for equity-based compensation plans, using a decimal to express in number of years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total recognized tax benefit related to compensation cost for equity-based payment arrangements recognized in income during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Employee Stock and Incentive Plans - Non-Qualified Stock Options (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
Dec. 31, 2008
|
||||||
| Number of Options [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Outstanding as of January 1, | 560,887 | 646,235 | 672,419 | ||||||
| Granted | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | |||
| Exercised | 80,798 | 40,769 | 4,508 | ||||||
| Forfeited | 19,855 | 44,579 | 21,676 | ||||||
| Outstanding as of December 31, | 460,234 | 560,887 | 646,235 | 672,419 | |||||
| Exercisable as of December 31, | 460,234 | 523,491 | 512,743 | ||||||
| Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] | |||||||||
| Outstanding as of January 1, | $ 40.69 | $ 40.05 | $ 39.99 | ||||||
| Granted | $ 0 | [1] | $ 0 | [1] | $ 0.00 | [1] | |||
| Exercised | $ 34.25 | $ 27.76 | $ 18.85 | ||||||
| Forfeited | $ 43.96 | $ 43.16 | $ 42.62 | ||||||
| Outstanding as of December 31, | $ 41.68 | $ 40.69 | $ 40.05 | $ 39.99 | |||||
| Exercisable as of December 31, | $ 41.59 | $ 39.76 | $ 37.34 | ||||||
| Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised | $ 0.1 | ||||||||
| Weighted Average Grant Date Intrinsic Value of Options Granted | $ 6.18 | ||||||||
| Total Intrinsic Value of Options Exercised | $ 0.5 | $ 0.3 | $ 0.1 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow associated with the amount received from holders exercising their stock options. This item inherently excludes any excess tax benefit, which the entity may have realized and reported separately. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of shares into which fully or partially vested stock options outstanding as of the balance sheet date can be currently converted under the option plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted-average price as of the balance sheet date at which grantees can acquire the shares reserved for issuance on vested portions of options outstanding and currently exercisable under the stock option plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total accumulated difference between fair values of underlying shares on dates of exercise and exercise price on options which were exercised (or share units converted) into shares during the reporting period under the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average price at which option holders acquired shares when converting their stock options into shares under the plan during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For presentations that combine terminations, the number of shares under options that were cancelled during the reporting period as a result of occurrence of a terminating event specified in contractual agreements pertaining to the stock option plan or that expired. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average price at which grantees could have acquired the underlying shares with respect to stock options that were terminated during the reporting period due to noncompliance with plan terms during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net number of share options (or share units) granted during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The grant-date intrinsic value of options granted during the reporting period as calculated by applying the disclosed option pricing methodology. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average price as of the balance sheet date at which grantees can acquire the shares reserved for issuance on stock options awarded under the plan during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of shares reserved for issuance under stock option agreements awarded under the plan that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date, including vested options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average price as of the beginning of the year at which grantees can acquire the shares reserved for issuance under the stock option plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of share options (or share units) exercised during the current period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Employee Stock and Incentive Plans - Stock Options, Range of Exercise Price (Details) (USD $)
|
12 Months Ended | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
Dec. 31, 2011
$18.85 to $29.79 [Member]
Years
|
Dec. 31, 2011
$37.76 to $41.35 [Member]
Years
|
Dec. 31, 2011
$44.15 to $48.65 [Member]
Years
|
|
| Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] | ||||||
| Number Outstanding and Exercisable | 460,234 | 523,491 | 512,743 | 11,672 | 279,133 | 169,429 |
| Weighted Average Remaining Contracutal Life (Years) | 1.1 | 4.5 | 4.5 | |||
| Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ 24.14 | $ 39.57 | $ 46.37 | |||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of shares into which fully or partially vested stock options outstanding as of the balance sheet date can be currently converted under the option plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average period between the balance sheet date and expiration for all vested portions of options outstanding and currently exercisable (or convertible) under the plan, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Weighted average exercise price as of the balance sheet date for those equity-based payment arrangements exercisable and outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Employee Stock and Incentive Plans - Performance Shares (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2012
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Years
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Performance Shares Awards [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Performance Shares Awards [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2009
Performance Shares Awards [Member]
|
||||||
| Number of Shares [Abstract] | |||||||||||
| Non-vested as of January 1, | 122,489 | 121,825 | 79,238 | ||||||||
| Granted | 39,312 | [1] | 49,302 | [1] | 69,800 | [1] | |||||
| Awarded | 100,000 | (32,368) | 0 | 0 | |||||||
| Unearned Grant Award | 0 | (22,909) | (24,615) | ||||||||
| Forfeited | (1,100) | (25,729) | (2,598) | ||||||||
| Non-vested as of December 31, | 128,333 | 122,489 | 121,825 | ||||||||
| Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] | |||||||||||
| As of January 1, | $ 38.15 | $ 41.96 | $ 47.94 | ||||||||
| Granted | $ 41.00 | [1] | $ 35.44 | [1] | $ 35.06 | [1] | |||||
| Awarded | $ 48.10 | $ 0.00 | $ 0.00 | ||||||||
| Unearned Grant Award | $ 0.00 | $ 54.50 | $ 41.97 | ||||||||
| Forfeited | $ 34.35 | $ 36.45 | $ 38.78 | ||||||||
| As of December 31, | $ 28.00 | $ 38.15 | $ 41.96 | ||||||||
| Performance Share Grants, Grant Date Fair Value | $ 1.4 | ||||||||||
| Performance Share Awards, Grant Date Fair Value | $ 1.4 | $ 1.6 | |||||||||
| Performance Period | 3 | ||||||||||
|
|||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Performance Period Length (usually in years) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Performance Share Awards Grant Date Fair Value, Total No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Performance Share Grants, Grant Date Fair Value, Total No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Performance Shares Awarded for a specified performance period No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Awards, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (Per Share) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Unearned Grant Award No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Unearned Grant Award, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (Per Share) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were forfeited during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans that were not exercised or put into effect during the reporting period as a result of the occurrence of a terminating event specified in the contractual agreement of the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average fair value at grant date for nonvested equity-based awards issued during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of non-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average fair value of nonvested awards on equity-based plans excluding option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, revenue or profit achievement stock award plan) for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments or transfer assets to an employee who has not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to proceeds from the sale of the award or underlying shares or units. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Employee Stock and Incentive Plans - Restricted Stock Units (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2012
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2009
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
|
||||||
| Number of Shares [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Available as of January 1, | 43,803 | 28,983 | 0 | |||||||
| Granted | 20,136 | 26,589 | [1] | 30,465 | [1] | |||||
| Awarded | (3,091) | 0 | ||||||||
| Forfeited | (260) | (8,678) | (1,482) | |||||||
| Available as of December 31, | 63,464 | 43,803 | 28,983 | |||||||
| Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| As of January 1, | $ 30.61 | $ 29.41 | $ 0.00 | |||||||
| Granted | $ 36.74 | [1] | $ 31.83 | [1] | $ 29.41 | [1] | ||||
| Awarded | $ 30.30 | $ 29.75 | $ 0.00 | |||||||
| Forfeited | $ 29.41 | $ 30.62 | $ 29.41 | |||||||
| As of December 31, | $ 22.88 | $ 30.61 | $ 29.41 | |||||||
| Restricted Stock Units Granted, Grant Date Fair Value | $ 0.6 | |||||||||
| Restricted Stock Units Awarded, Shares | 100,000 | (215) | ||||||||
| Restricted Stock Units Awarded, Grant Date Fair Value | $ 0.8 | $ 0.1 | ||||||||
|
||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Restricted Stock Units Awarded, Grant Date Fair Value No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Restricted Stock Units Awarded, Shares No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Restricted Stock Units Granted, Grant Date Fair Value Total No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Awards, Shares No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Awards, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (Per Share) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were forfeited during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans that were not exercised or put into effect during the reporting period as a result of the occurrence of a terminating event specified in the contractual agreement of the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average fair value at grant date for nonvested equity-based awards issued during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average fair value of nonvested awards on equity-based plans excluding option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, revenue or profit achievement stock award plan) for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments or transfer assets to an employee who has not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to proceeds from the sale of the award or underlying shares or units. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The difference between the maximum number of shares (or other type of equity) authorized for issuance under the plan (including the effects of amendments and adjustments), and the sum of: 1) the number of shares (or other type of equity) already issued upon exercise of options or other equity-based awards under the plan; and 2) shares (or other type of equity) reserved for issuance on granting of outstanding awards, net of cancellations and forfeitures, if applicable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Jun. 30, 2011
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Jun. 30, 2010
|
Mar. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] | |||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | $ 239.2 | $ 226.9 | $ 219.9 | $ 242.2 | $ 238.1 | $ 224.1 | $ 211.2 | $ 233.6 | $ 928.2 | $ 907.0 | $ 759.1 |
| Operating Income | 34.2 | 38.9 | 26.1 | 50.8 | 22.7 | 35.3 | 31.7 | 46.1 | 150.0 | 135.8 | 106.0 |
| Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 19.1 | $ 20.5 | $ 17.0 | $ 37.2 | $ 13.3 | $ 19.6 | $ 19.4 | $ 23.0 | $ 93.8 | $ 75.3 | $ 61.0 |
| Basic Earnings Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.53 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.49 | $ 1.07 | $ 0.38 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.68 | $ 2.66 | $ 2.20 | $ 1.89 |
| Diluted Earnings Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.53 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.48 | $ 1.07 | $ 0.38 | $ 0.56 | $ 0.57 | $ 0.68 | $ 2.65 | $ 2.19 | $ 1.89 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
|
|
Schedule II Schedule II (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
||||||
|
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
|
||||||||
| Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Balance at Beginning of Period | $ 0.9 | $ 0.9 | $ 0.7 | |||||
| Additions, Charged to Income | 1.3 | 1.1 | 1.3 | |||||
| Additions, Other Charges | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||
| Deductions from Reserves | 1.3 | [1] | 1.1 | [1] | 1.1 | [1] | ||
| Balance at End of Period | 0.9 | 0.9 | 0.9 | |||||
|
Finance Receivables - Long-Term [Member]
|
||||||||
| Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Balance at Beginning of Period | 0.8 | 0.4 | 0.1 | |||||
| Additions, Charged to Income | 0.1 | 0.8 | 0.3 | |||||
| Additions, Other Charges | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||
| Deductions from Reserves | 0.3 | [1] | 0.4 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||
| Balance at End of Period | 0.6 | 0.8 | 0.4 | |||||
|
Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
|
||||||||
| Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Balance at Beginning of Period | 0.5 | 0.3 | 0.4 | |||||
| Additions, Charged to Income | (0.1) | 0.2 | (0.1) | |||||
| Additions, Other Charges | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||
| Deductions from Reserves | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||
| Balance at End of Period | $ 0.4 | $ 0.5 | $ 0.3 | |||||
|
||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs, charged to costs and expenses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs, charged to accounts other than costs and expenses in a given period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of the deductions in a given period to allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs, representing receivables written off as uncollectible and portions of the reserves utilized, respectively. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|