Document And Entity Information (USD $)
|
9 Months Ended | |
---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Jun. 30, 2010
|
|
Entity 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 | $ 1,214,198,439 | |
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 36,809,561 | |
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2011 | |
Document Fiscal Period Focus | Q3 | |
Document Type | 10-Q | |
Amendment Flag | false | |
Document Period End Date | Sep. 30, 2011 |
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
If the value is true, then the document as an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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
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
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
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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
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
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
|
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
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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 | ||||||||||
- 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 | ||||||||||
- 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
Other investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy that will be realized in a short period of time, usually less than one year or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
This represents the noncurrent liability recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement and postemployment benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
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 | ||||||||||
- 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
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
The cumulative amount of the reporting entity's undistributed earnings or deficit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
---|---|---|
Accounts Receivable, Allowance | $ 0.9 | $ 0.9 |
Common Stock, Par Value | $ 0.00 | $ 0.00 |
Common Stock, Shares Authorized | 80.0 | 80.0 |
Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 36.8 | 35.8 |
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
Issuance value per share of no-par value common stock; generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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
|
Consolidated Statement of Income (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
|
Consolidated Statement of Income [Abstract] | ||||
Operating Revenue | $ 226.9 | $ 224.1 | $ 689.0 | $ 668.9 |
Operating Expenses [Abstract] | ||||
Fuel and Purchased Power | 74.8 | 79.0 | 229.8 | 233.1 |
Operating and Maintenance | 90.5 | 89.8 | 276.3 | 262.9 |
Depreciation | 22.7 | 20.0 | 67.1 | 59.8 |
Total Operating Expenses | 188.0 | 188.8 | 573.2 | 555.8 |
Operating Income (Loss) | 38.9 | 35.3 | 115.8 | 113.1 |
Other Income (Expense) [Abstract] | ||||
Interest Expense | (10.9) | (9.7) | (32.6) | (28.1) |
Equity Earnings in ATC | 4.7 | 4.5 | 13.7 | 13.4 |
Other | 0.5 | 0.6 | 2.3 | 3.8 |
Total Other Income (Expense) | (5.7) | (4.6) | (16.6) | (10.9) |
Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 33.2 | 30.7 | 99.2 | 102.2 |
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | 12.7 | 11.2 | 24.7 | 40.5 |
Net Income (Loss) | 20.5 | 19.5 | 74.5 | 61.7 |
Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | (0.1) | (0.2) | (0.3) |
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | $ 20.5 | $ 19.6 | $ 74.7 | $ 62.0 |
Average Shares of Common Stock [Abstract] | ||||
Basic | 35.6 | 34.4 | 35.1 | 34.1 |
Diluted | 35.7 | 34.5 | 35.2 | 34.2 |
Basic Earnings Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.57 | $ 0.57 | $ 2.13 | $ 1.82 |
Diluted Earnings Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.57 | $ 0.56 | $ 2.12 | $ 1.81 |
Dividends Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.445 | $ 0.44 | $ 1.335 | $ 1.32 |
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate dividends declared during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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 | ||||||||||
- 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
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 | ||||||||||
- 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
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 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
The total amount of operating revenues recognized during the period. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Discloses the total amount of all operating expenses for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Discloses the amount of operating expense for the period related to depreciation and amortization. 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
|
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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 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
The amount of plan compensation cost recognized during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net gain (loss) resulting from sales and other disposals of other real estate owned, increases (decreases) in the valuation allowance for foreclosed real estate, and write-downs of other real estate owned after acquisition or physical possession. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period of all assets and liabilities used in operating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from financing activity for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from investing activity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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
|
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] | OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventory are recorded on an average cost basis.
Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information.
Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable are reported on the consolidated 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. 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 September 30, 2011. Based on our assessment of the facts and circumstances existing as of September 30, 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. We continue to provide electric and steam service to this customer and subsequent to September 30, 2011, we received payment of scheduled post-petition receivable balances. We expect continued payment of all other post-petition receivables. Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries. In the third quarter of 2011, ALLETE purchased the remaining shares of the ALLETE Properties non-controlling interest at book value for approximately $9 million by issuing 0.2 million shares of ALLETE common stock. (See Item II. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.) This was accounted for as an equity transaction, and no gain or loss is recognized in net income or comprehensive income. Subsequent Events. The Company performed an evaluation of subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through the time of the financial statements issuance. 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 from the footnotes to the face of the financial statements in 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. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entire disclosure for the general note to the financial statements for the reporting entity which may include, descriptions of the basis of presentation, business description, significant accounting policies, consolidations, reclassifications, new pronouncements not yet adopted and changes in accounting principles. No definition available.
|
Business Segments
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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, and ALLETE Properties, our Florida real estate investment. This segment also includes a small amount of non-rate base generation, land available-for-sale in Minnesota and earnings on cash and short-term investments.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Investments
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments [Text Block] | INVESTMENTS Investments. Our long-term investment portfolio includes the real estate assets of ALLETE Properties, debt and equity securities consisting primarily of securities held to fund employee benefits and land held-for-sale in Minnesota.
Land Held-for-sale. Land held-for-sale is recorded at the lower of cost or fair value as determined by the evaluation of individual land parcels. Land values are reviewed for impairment on a quarterly basis and no impairments were recorded for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 (none in 2010). Long-Term Finance Receivables. As of September 30, 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 finance 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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entire disclosure for investments, including all tables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Derivatives
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Derivatives [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. 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 the issuance of 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, 3014, and represents approximately 9 percent of the Company’s outstanding long-term debt as of September 30, 2011. (See Note 8. 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 quarter and nine months ended September 30, 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 September 30, 2011, a $0.5 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 if 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. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Fair Value
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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). Descriptions of the three levels of the fair value hierarchy are discussed in Note 8. Fair Value to the consolidated financial statements in our 2010 Form 10-K. 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 September 30, 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 and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.
During the second quarter of 2010, the $0.7 million of financial transmission rights derivatives were settled. On January 5, 2011, the remaining $6.7 million of ARS were redeemed at carrying value. The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers in and transfers out as of the actual date of the event or of the change in circumstances that caused the transfer. For the nine months ended September 30, 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 item listed below, the estimated fair value of all financial instruments approximates the carrying amount. The fair value for the item listed below was based on quoted market prices for the same or similar instruments.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Regulatory Matters
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Regulated Operations [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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, 2009, Minnesota Power filed an $81 million retail rate increase request to recover the costs of significant investments to ensure current and future system reliability, enhance environmental performance and bring new renewable energy to northeastern Minnesota. Interim rates were put into effect on January 1, 2010, and were originally estimated to increase revenues by $48.5 million in 2010. In April 2010, we adjusted our initial filing for events that had occurred since November 2009 – primarily increased sales to our industrial customers – resulting in a retail rate increase request of $72 million, a return on equity request of 11.25 percent and a capital structure consisting of 54.29 percent equity and 45.71 percent debt. 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 the second quarter of 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 timely filed an appeal of the MPUC’s interim rate decision in the Company’s 2010 rate case with the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The Company is appealing 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. Oral argument was held on September 21, 2011, and an appellate decision is expected by the end of December 2011. If the appeal is successful, the Minnesota Court of Appeals would remand the case to the MPUC for further action consistent with its decision. The Company cannot predict the outcome of the matter 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 provides for a true-up calculation for actual costs. 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. 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 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 provide for the transfer of transmission and wind development rights in North Dakota to ALLETE Clean Energy. These transmission and wind development rights are in addition to 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 the first quarter of 2010. Consequently, the reversal of previously recorded tax benefits resulted in a non-recurring charge to net income of $4.0 million in the first quarter of 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 in the second quarter of 2011 and a related regulatory asset of $5.0 million. (See Note 10. Income Tax Expense.) Regulatory Assets and Liabilities. Our regulated utility operations are subject to the accounting guidance for Regulated Operations. We capitalize incurred costs which are probable of recovery in future utility rates as regulatory assets. Regulatory liabilities represent amounts expected to be credited to customers in rates. No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entire disclosure for public utilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Investment in ATC
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investment in ATC [Text Block] | 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. In the first nine months of 2011, we invested $2.0 million in ATC. We do not expect to make any additional investments in 2011.
ATC’s summarized financial data for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, is as follows:
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Text Block] | SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT Short-Term Debt. As of September 30, 2011, total short-term debt outstanding was $18.4 million ($14.4 million as of December 31, 2010) and consisted of long-term debt due within one year and notes payable. Long-Term Debt. As of September 30, 2011, total long-term debt outstanding was $844.4 million ($771.6 million as of December 31, 2010). On August 25, 2011, ALLETE, Inc. 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 1.00 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 4. Derivatives.) Proceeds from the Term Loan will be used for general corporate purposes. As of September 30, 2011, there was $75.0 million outstanding on the Term Loan. On May 25, 2011, ALLETE, Inc. entered into a new $250 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 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 in support of ALLETE’s commercial paper program and to issue up to $40 million in letters of credit. 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 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 September 30, 2011, our ratio was approximately 0.45 to 1.00. Failure to meet this covenant would give rise to an event of default if not cured after notice from a 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 September 30, 2011, ALLETE was in compliance with its financial covenants. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Other Income (Expense)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense) [Text Block] | OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Income Tax Expense
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Income Tax Expense [Text Block] | INCOME TAX EXPENSE
For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the effective tax rate was 24.9 percent (39.6 percent for the nine months ended September 30, 2010). The effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, was lowered by 2.9 percent due to the non-recurring income tax benefit related to the MPUC approval of our request to defer the retail portion of the tax charge taken in 2010 resulting from PPACA and by 6.2 percent due to the non-recurring reversal of the 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 effective tax rate deviated from the statutory rate of approximately 41 percent primarily due to the non-recurring items discussed above, deductions for AFUDC – Equity, investment tax credits, renewable tax credits and depletion. Uncertain Tax Positions. As of September 30, 2011, we had gross unrecognized tax benefits of $11.4 million. Of this total, $0.6 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably impact the effective income tax rate. We expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of September 30, 2011, will change by an immaterial amount in the next 12 months. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Comprehensive Income
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive Income [Text Block] | COMPREHENSIVE INCOME The components of total comprehensive income were as follows:
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Earnings Per Share and Common Stock
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings Per Share and Common Stock [Text Block] | EARNINGS PER SHARE AND COMMON STOCK The difference between basic and diluted earnings per share, if any, arises from outstanding stock options and performance share awards granted under our Executive and Director Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plans. For the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, 0.4 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; therefore, their effect would have been anti-dilutive.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entire disclosure for earnings per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Text Block] | PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Employer Contributions. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, $6.6 million was contributed to our defined benefit pension plan ($1.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2010). For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, $10.9 million was contributed to our other postretirement benefit plan ($12.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2010). We expect to contribute an additional $27 million to our defined benefit pension plan in 2011, which will reduce our anticipated 2012 contributions, and we expect to contribute an additional $1 million to our other postretirement benefit plan in 2011. Accounting and disclosure requirements for the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (Act) provides 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. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, we received $0.2 million in prescription drug reimbursements. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entire disclosure for pension and other postretirement benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies [Text Block] | 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. 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 September 30, 2011, Square Butte had total debt outstanding of $421.6 million. Annual debt service for Square Butte is expected to be approximately $39 million in each of the five years, 2011 through 2015, 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. 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 enable Minnesota Power to transmit new 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 be purchasing at least one million MWh of energy over the contract term. On Mar. 31, 2011, the MPUC approved this PPA with Manitoba Hydro. North Dakota Wind Development. In December 2009, we purchased an existing 250 kV DC transmission line from Square Butte. The 465-mile transmission line runs from Center, North Dakota to Duluth, Minnesota. We use this line to transport increasing amounts of wind energy from North Dakota, while gradually phasing out coal-based electricity currently being delivered to our system over this transmission line from Square Butte’s coal-fired generating unit. Bison 1 is a two phase, 82 MW wind project in North Dakota. All permitting has been received and the first phase was completed in 2010. Phase one included the construction of a 22-mile, 230 kV transmission line and the installation of sixteen 2.3-MW wind turbines. Phase two is expected to be completed in late 2011 and consists of the installation of fifteen 3.0-MW wind turbines. Bison 1 is expected to have a total capital cost of approximately $177 million, of which $158.8 million was spent through September 30, 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 Aug. 1, 2010. On Mar. 31, 2011, Minnesota Power petitioned the MPUC to update the rates for additional investments and expenditures related to Bison 1 and a hearing is scheduled for November 3, 2011. 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. Total project costs for Bison 2 and Bison 3 are estimated to be approximately $160 million each and site preparation is currently underway for both projects. On Aug. 24, 2011, and Oct. 20, 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 Aug. 10, 2011, and Oct. 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. Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts. We have coal supply agreements and transportation agreements providing for the purchase and delivery of a significant portion of our coal requirements. These coal and transportation agreements, including option terms, expire in various years between late 2011 and 2015. Our minimum annual payment obligation is $15.7 million in 2011, $15.8 million in 2012 and $16.3 million in 2013. 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. 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, purchase the dragline at fair market value or surrender the dragline and pay a $3.0 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 $8.1 million in 2011, $8.4 million in 2012, $8.5 million in 2013, $8.7 million in 2014, $8.4 million in 2015 and $44.7 million thereafter. Transmission. We are making investments in Upper Midwest transmission opportunities that strengthen or enhance the regional transmission grid. These investments include the CapX2020 initiative, investments in our transmission assets 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 on May 11, 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 Jun. 29, 2011, we filed an updated billing factor that includes additional transmission projects and expenses, which we expect to be approved in late 2011. 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. 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 $19.7 million was spent through September 30, 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. Construction of the project is expected to be completed in late 2011. On Jun. 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 Fargo to Monticello 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 generating facilities are equipped with pollution control equipment such as scrubbers, bag houses and low NOx technologies. At this time, these facilities are substantially compliant with applicable emission requirements. New Source Review. In August 2008, Minnesota Power received a Notice of Violation (NOV) from the EPA asserting violations of the New Source Review (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 in both 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. Since 2006, Minnesota Power has significantly reduced emissions at Laskin and Boswell and continues to reduce emissions at Boswell. Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). On July 6, 2011, the EPA finalized the CSAPR, which went into effect on October 7, 2011. The CSAPR requires 27 states 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 enough emission allowances to cover their emissions on an annual basis. These allowances are given to facilities annually by EPA and can be bought and sold. This final rule, referred to as the Transport Rule during the proposal stage, replaces the EPA’s 2005 Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). Minnesota participation in the CAIR was stayed by EPA administrative action while the EPA completed review of air quality modeling issues in conjunction with development of a final replacement rule. In their final determination, the EPA listed Minnesota as a CSAPR-affected state based on new, 24-hour fine particulate NAAQS analysis. The CSAPR-related emission restrictions become effective for Minnesota utilities in 2012. Although the CSAPR went into effect on October 7, 2011, on October 6, 2011, the EPA proposed changes to state CSAPR allowance allocations. These proposed changes were published on October 14, 2011, and do not affect the State of Minnesota. We are unable to predict whether there will be any further changes to allocations that will affect the State of Minnesota and/or Minnesota Power. 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 these recent emission reductions 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 for 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. 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. A decision by the EPA is pending on whether to approve the Minnesota SIP. If approved, Minnesota Power will have up to five years to bring Taconite Harbor Unit 3 into compliance with the regional haze rule requirements. It is uncertain what controls will ultimately be required at Taconite Harbor Unit 3 in connection with the regional haze rule. Electric Generating Unit (EGU) 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 for certain source categories. The EPA released their proposed EGU MACT rule on March 16, 2011, addressing such emissions from coal-fired utility units greater than 25 MW. The final rule is expected to be issued in December 2011. Costs for complying with potential future mercury and other hazardous air pollutant regulations under the Clean Air Act 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, the final rule was published in the Federal Register. The rule was stayed by the EPA on May 16, 2011, to allow the EPA time to consider additional comments received. The EPA currently plans to re-propose the rule, with a final rule expected in April 2012. Major sources have three years to achieve compliance with the final rule. This rule may result in additional control measures being required at Rapids Energy Center and Hibbard. Costs for complying with the proposed 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. Costs for the Boswell Unit 4 emission reduction plan cannot be estimated at this time. Until Minnesota Power files its mercury emission reduction plan for Boswell 4, it must file an annual report updating the MPUC and other stakeholders on the status of emission reduction planning for Boswell 4. The first such update was filed with the MPUC on June 30, 2011. 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 they will reduce emissions to attain the NAAQS. These state plans often include more stringent air emission limitations on sources of air pollutants. 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 at the end of July 2011, but has announced that they are deferring revision until planned review in 2013. Particulate Matter NAAQS. The EPA finalized the NAAQS Particulate Matter standards in September 2006. The EPA established a more stringent 24-hour average fine particulate (PM2.5) standard and kept the annual average fine particulate matter standard and the 24-hour coarse particulate matter standard unchanged. The District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals has remanded the PM2.5 standard to the EPA, requiring consideration of lower annual average standard values. The EPA plans to finalize the new PM2.5 standards in 2011 and state attainment status determination will likely not occur prior to 2013. As early as late 2014, 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 a 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 February 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 also result in more stringent emission limits on our steam generating facilities, and possibly additional control measures on some of our units. The MPCA informed affected sources that compliance strategies needed based on these modeling results must be agreed to by February 2013. One-hour SO2 NAAQS attainment is required by 2017. We are unable to predict the nature or timing of any additional NAAQS regulation or compliance costs we might incur at this time. Climate Change. 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:
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. 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 PSD/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 cannot predict the nature or timing of any additional GHG legislation or regulation. Although we are unable to predict the compliance costs we might incur, the costs could have a material impact on our financial results. Water. The Clean Water Act requires NPDES permits to 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 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 costs we might incur; however, the costs could have a material impact on our financial results. 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 steam 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 costs we might incur; however, the costs could have a material impact on our financial results. 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 September 30, 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 September 30, 2011, BNI Coal had surety bonds outstanding of $29.7 million related to the reclamation liability for closing costs associated with its mine and mine facilities which meet the requirements for BNI Coal’s total reclamation liability. BNI Coal does not believe it is likely that any of these outstanding bonds will be drawn upon. ALLETE Properties. As of September 30, 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 cost of 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 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 September 30, 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 approximately $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 $20.0 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 expense related to any damages that may result from the lawsuit has not been recorded as of September 30, 2011, because a potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable; however, the Company believes it has adequate insurance coverage for any 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 affect 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 affect on our financial condition. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entire disclosure for commitments, contingencies, and guarantees. No definition available.
|
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
Inventories [Policy Text Block] | Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventory are recorded on an average cost basis. |
Accounts Receivable [Policy Text Block] | Accounts receivable are reported on the consolidated 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. |
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for trade and other accounts receivable, and finance, loan and lease receivables, including those classified as held for investment and 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 valuation allowance for receivables 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 policies for such receivables, including those that are impaired, past due or placed on nonaccrual status and (7) the treatment of foreclosures or repossessions (8) the nature and amount of any guarantees to repurchase receivables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Investments (Policies)
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Investments [Abstract] | |
Land Held-for-sale [Policy Text Block] | Land held-for-sale is recorded at the lower of cost or fair value as determined by the evaluation of individual land parcels. |
Long-Term Finance Receivables [Policy Text Block] | Long-term finance receivables are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. |
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for those finance, loan and lease receivables classified as held for investment. 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 commitment and other fees and loan origination costs (including, if applicable, how the entity accounts for fees and costs associated with credit cards that are either purchased or originated) (5) the treatment of any premiums or discounts or unearned income (6) the entity's income recognition policies for such receivables, including those that are impaired, past due or placed on nonaccrual status (for impaired loans, the policy for recognizing interest income on such loans, including how cash receipts are recorded) and (7) the treatment of foreclosures or repossessions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for real estate held for development or sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Derivatives (Policies)
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Derivatives [Policy Text Block] | 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. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Fair Value (Policies)
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Fair Value [Policy Text Block] | 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). Descriptions of the three levels of the fair value hierarchy are discussed in Note 8. Fair Value to the consolidated financial statements in our 2010 Form 10-K. |
Fair Value, Transfers In and Transfers Out [Policy Text Block] | The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers in and transfers out as of the actual date of the event or of the change in circumstances that caused the transfer. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for determining the fair value of financial instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for determining when transfers between levels are recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Regulatory Matters (Policies)
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Regulated Operations [Abstract] | |
Regulated Operations [Policy Text Block] | Our regulated utility operations are subject to the accounting guidance for Regulated Operations. We capitalize incurred costs which are probable of recovery in future utility rates as regulatory assets. Regulatory liabilities represent amounts expected to be credited to customers in rates. No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return. |
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Earnings Per Share and Common Stock (Policies)
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |
Earnings Per Share [Policy Text Block] | The difference between basic and diluted earnings per share, if any, arises from outstanding stock options and performance share awards granted under our Executive and Director Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plans. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for computing basic and diluted earnings or loss per share for each class of common stock and participating security. Addresses all significant policy factors, including any antidilutive items that have been excluded from the computation and takes into account stock dividends, splits and reverse splits that occur after the balance sheet date of the latest reporting period but before the issuance of the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies (Policies)
|
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity [Policy Text Block] | 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. |
Environmental Costs [Policy Text Block] | 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. |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for consolidation to describe the significant judgments and assumptions made in determining whether a variable interest held by the entity requires the variable interest entity to be consolidated and (or) disclose information about its involvement with the variable interest entity; the methodology used by the entity for determining whether or not it is the primary beneficiary of the variable interest entity; and the significant factors considered and judgments made in determining that the power to direct the activities that significantly impact the economic performance of the variable interest entity are shared (as defined). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
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
|
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Inventories [Table Text Block] |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prepayments and Other Current Assets [Table Text Block] |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities [Table Text Block] |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information [Table Text Block] | Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of supplemental cash flow information for the periods presented. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of other assets and other liabilities not separately disclosed on the balance sheet. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the carrying amounts of other assets. No definition available.
|
Business Segments (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Business Segments [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Investments (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investment Portfolio [Table Text Block] |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Finance Receivables Allowance Roll-Forward [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
A table of investments, shown as a text block. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of credit losses for current financing receivables (such as trade and accounts receivable), including a rollforward of the balance. An alternative caption includes allowance for doubtful accounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Fair Value (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recurring Fair Value Measures [Table Text Block] |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recurring Fair Value Measures - Activity in Level 3 [Table Text Block] |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
Regulatory Matters (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Regulated Operations [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
Investment in ATC (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ALLETE's Investment in ATC [Table Text Block] |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ATC Summarized Financial Data [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of summarized financial data reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
Other Income (Expense) (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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.
|
Income Tax Expense (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Income Tax Expense [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- 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
|
Earnings Per Share and Common Stock (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of basic net earnings per share (or unit) to diluted earnings per share (or unit). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Tables)
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Table Text Block] |
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of one or more of the entity's defined benefit pension plans or one or more other defined benefit postretirement plans, separately for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans including the entity's schedule of fair value of plan assets for defined benefit or other postretirement plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Number of shares of stock issued during the period to purchase non-controlling interest. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Noncurrent portion of 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
The aggregate dollar amount of claims under review by the management of the entity. 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
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 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
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 cumulative amount of depreciation, depletion and amortization (related to property, plant and equipment, but not including land) that has been recognized in the income statement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
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 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
|
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 | ||||||||||
- 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
The total amount of operating revenues recognized during the period. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Discloses the amount of operating expense for the period related to depreciation and amortization. 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
|
Investments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |
---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|
Investments [Abstract] | ||
ALLETE Properties | $ 93.0 | $ 94.0 |
Available-for-sale Securities | 30.5 | 25.2 |
Other | 6.0 | 6.8 |
Total Investments | 129.5 | 126.0 |
ALLETE Properties [Rollforward] | ||
Land Held-for-sale Beginning Balance (January 1, 2011 and 2010, respectively) | 86.0 | 74.9 |
Deeds to Collateralized Property | 1.9 | 9.9 |
Capitalized Improvements and Other | 0.1 | 1.2 |
Cost of Real Estate Sold | (0.3) | 0 |
Land Held-for-sale Ending Balance | 87.7 | 86.0 |
Long-Term Finance Receivables (net of allowances of $0.6 and $0.8) | 2.0 | 3.7 |
Other | 3.3 | 4.3 |
Total Real Estate Assets | 93.0 | 94.0 |
Long-Term Finance Receivables (net of allowances of $0.6 and $0.8) | 2.0 | 3.7 |
Long-Term Finance Receivables Allowance [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning Balance as of December 31, 2010 | 0.8 | |
Reduction to Reserve | (0.2) | |
Ending Balance as of September 30, 2011 | $ 0.6 | $ 0.8 |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
The increase (decrease) in the allowance for credit losses related to financing receivables. 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
The allowance for loan and lease losses represents the reserve to cover probable credit losses related to specifically identified loans and leases, as well as probable credit losses inherent in the remainder of the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date. For banks, include currently required allocated transfer risk reserves. Include carryover of or adjustments to the allowance for loan losses in connection with business combinations determined to be appropriate. 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
Other investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. 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 |
9 Months Ended | |
---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
Percent
|
Aug. 25, 2011
|
|
Derivatives [Line Items] | ||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 75.0 | |
Description of Derivative Activity Volume | and represents approximately 9 percent of the Company’s outstanding long-term debt as of September 30, 2011. | |
Derivative, Description of Variable Rate Basis | LIBOR | |
Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis | LIBOR | |
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | 1.00% | |
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 quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2011. | |
Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | $ (0.5) |
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
The reference rate for the variable rate of the interest rate derivative, 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
Fixed interest rate related to the interest rate derivative. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Information that would enable users to understand the volume of the entity's derivative activity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
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
|
Fair Value - Recurring Fair Value Measures (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
---|---|---|
Liabilities: | ||
Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | $ (0.5) | |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Total [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Equity Securities | 18.9 | 19.4 |
Available-for-sale Securities | 14.2 | |
Money Market Funds | 6.0 | 0.8 |
Total Fair Value of Assets | 32.9 | 34.4 |
Liabilities: | ||
Deferred Compensation | 13.3 | 13.3 |
Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.5 | |
Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 13.8 | 13.3 |
Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 19.1 | 21.1 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Total [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | 8.0 | 7.5 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Total [Member] | Debt Securities Issued by States of the United States (ARS) [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | 6.7 | |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Equity Securities | 18.9 | 19.4 |
Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | |
Money Market Funds | 6.0 | 0.8 |
Total Fair Value of Assets | 24.9 | 20.2 |
Liabilities: | ||
Deferred Compensation | 0 | 0 |
Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0 | |
Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 0 | 0 |
Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 24.9 | 20.2 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | 0 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities Issued by States of the United States (ARS) [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Equity Securities | 0 | 0 |
Available-for-sale Securities | 7.5 | |
Money Market Funds | 0 | 0 |
Total Fair Value of Assets | 8.0 | 7.5 |
Liabilities: | ||
Deferred Compensation | 13.3 | 13.3 |
Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.5 | |
Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 13.8 | 13.3 |
Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | (5.8) | (5.8) |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | 8.0 | 7.5 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities Issued by States of the United States (ARS) [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Equity Securities | 0 | 0 |
Available-for-sale Securities | 6.7 | |
Money Market Funds | 0 | 0 |
Total Fair Value of Assets | 0 | 6.7 |
Liabilities: | ||
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 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | 0 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities Issued by States of the United States (ARS) [Member]
|
||
Assets: | ||
Available-for-sale Securities | $ 6.7 |
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 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 | ||||||||||
- Definition
For an unclassified balance sheet, this item represents investments in debt and equity securities which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Aggregate carrying value as of the balance sheet date of the liabilities for all deferred compensation arrangements. Represents currently earned compensation under compensation arrangements that is not actually paid until a later date. 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 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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Investment in short-term money-market instruments (such as commercial paper, banker's acceptances, repurchase agreements, government securities, certificates of deposit, and so forth) which are highly liquid (that is, readily convertible to known amounts of cash) and so near their maturity that they present an insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify as cash equivalents by definition. Original maturity means an 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
|
Fair Value - Recurring Fair Value Measures - Activity in Level 3 (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended | |
---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
|
Derivatives [Member]
|
||
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] | ||
Balance as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively | $ 0 | $ 0.7 |
Settled During the Period | 0 | (0.7) |
Redeemed During the Period | 0 | 0 |
Balance as of September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively | 0 | 0 |
Debt Securities Issued by States of the United States (ARS) [Member]
|
||
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] | ||
Balance as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively | 6.7 | 6.7 |
Settled During the Period | 0 | 0 |
Redeemed During the Period | (6.7) | 0 |
Balance as of September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively | $ 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 |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
---|---|---|
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||
Long-Term Debt, Including Current Portion - Carrying Amount | $ 857.2 | $ 785.0 |
Long-term Debt, Including Current Portion - Fair Value | $ 962.5 | $ 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.
|
Regulatory Matters (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
Medicare Part D [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
Medicare Part D [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2011
DTL Reversal, Revenue Receivable Forgone [Member]
|
Jun. 30, 2011
Income Tax Benefit, MPUC Approval of Deferral of PPACA [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2010
DTA Reversal, Elimination of Medicare Part D [Member]
|
May 24, 2011
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2011
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
Nov. 02, 2010
2010 Rate Case [Member]
Percent
|
Apr. 30, 2010
2010 Rate Case [Member]
Percent
|
Nov. 02, 2009
2010 Rate Case [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2011
FERC-Approved Wholesale Rates [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2011
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2010
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
Percent
|
Dec. 31, 2010
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
Water Rates [Member]
Percent
|
Dec. 31, 2010
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
Natural Gas Rates [Member]
Percent
|
Dec. 31, 2010
2010 Wisconsin Rate Increase [Member]
Electric Rates [Member]
Percent
|
|
Electric Rates [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||
Original Retail Rate Increase Request | $ 81 | ||||||||||||||||||
Interim Rate Increase Implemented | 48.5 | ||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted Retail Rate Increase Request | 72 | ||||||||||||||||||
Requested Rate of Return on Common Equity | 11.25% | ||||||||||||||||||
Requested Percentage of Capital Structure Related to Equity | 54.29% | ||||||||||||||||||
Requested Percentage of Capital Structure Related to Debt | 45.71% | ||||||||||||||||||
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% | ||||||||||||||||||
Amount of Rate Differential Authorized for Collection | 3.2 | ||||||||||||||||||
Amount of Revenue Receivable Capitalized | 20.5 | ||||||||||||||||||
Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | 6.2 | 2.9 | 4.0 | ||||||||||||||||
Non-Affiliated Municipal Customers, Municipalities | 16 | ||||||||||||||||||
Non-Affiliated Municipal Customers, Private Utilities | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||
Length of Notice Required to Terminate (Years) | three | ||||||||||||||||||
Amount Of Estimated Additional Revenue | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||
Approved Retail Rate Increase (Percent) | 2.40% | 12.80% | 2.50% | 0.70% | |||||||||||||||
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (PPACA) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||
Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | 6.2 | 2.9 | 4.0 | ||||||||||||||||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | $ 286.9 | $ 310.2 | $ 5.0 | $ 0 |
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entity's adjusted requested amount of increase to existing rates, filed with the state regulatory commission. No definition available.
|
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 entity's interim rate increase to existing rates, as approved 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
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 | ||||||||||
- Definition
The entity's original requested amount of increase to existing rates, filed with the state regulatory commission. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Percentage of capital structure related to debt requested by utility through a rate case proceeding filed with the state regulatory commission. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The percentage of capital structure related to equity requested by utility through a rate case proceeding filed with the state regulatory commission. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Rate of return on common equity requested by utility through a rate case proceeding filed with the state regulatory commission. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
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
|
Regulatory Matters - Regulatory Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Current Regulatory Assets | $ 17.1 | [1] | $ 20.6 | [1] | ||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 286.9 | 310.2 | ||||
Regulatory Assets | 304.0 | 330.8 | ||||
Deferred Fuel [Member]
|
||||||
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Current Regulatory Assets | 17.1 | 20.6 | ||||
Future Benefit Obligations Under Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
|
||||||
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 245.3 | 257.9 | ||||
Boswell Unit 3 Environmental Rider [Member]
|
||||||
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 0 | 20.5 | ||||
Income Taxes [Member]
|
||||||
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 24.5 | 17.3 | ||||
Asset Retirement Obligation [Member]
|
||||||
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 9.2 | 7.8 | ||||
Medicare Part D [Member]
|
||||||
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 5.0 | 0 | ||||
Other [Member]
|
||||||
Regulatory Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Non-Current Regulatory Assets | $ 2.9 | $ 6.7 | ||||
|
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
|
Regulatory Matters - Regulatory Liabilities (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
---|---|---|
Regulatory Liabilities [Line Items] | ||
Non-Current Regulatory Liabilties | $ 44.6 | $ 43.6 |
Income Taxes [Member]
|
||
Regulatory Liabilities [Line Items] | ||
Non-Current Regulatory Liabilties | 21.6 | 23.4 |
Plant Removal Obligations [Member]
|
||
Regulatory Liabilities [Line Items] | ||
Non-Current Regulatory Liabilties | 16.7 | 16.9 |
Other [Member]
|
||
Regulatory Liabilities [Line Items] | ||
Non-Current Regulatory Liabilties | $ 6.3 | $ 3.3 |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
|
Investment in ATC (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
Percent
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
Percent
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
|
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] | ||||
Ownership Percentage | 8.00% | 8.00% | ||
Approved Return on Common Equity | 12.20% | 12.20% | ||
Year-to-Date Investment | $ 2.0 | |||
ALLETE's Investment in ATC [Roll Forward] | ||||
Equity Investment Balance as of December 31, 2010 | 93.3 | |||
Cash Investments | 2.0 | 1.2 | ||
Equity in ATC Earnings | 4.7 | 4.5 | 13.7 | 13.4 |
Distributed ATC Earnings | (11.1) | |||
Equity Investment Balance as of September 30, 2011 | 97.9 | 97.9 | ||
ATC Summarized Financial Data [Abstract] | ||||
Revenue | 142.8 | 136.9 | 420.6 | 414.1 |
Operating Expense | 66.4 | 60.2 | 192.5 | 185.9 |
Other Expense | 19.7 | 21.7 | 61.6 | 64.0 |
Net Income | 56.7 | 55.0 | 166.5 | 164.2 |
Equity in ATC Earnings | $ 4.7 | $ 4.5 | $ 13.7 | $ 13.4 |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
The amount of additional or anticipated investments in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting. 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
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
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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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 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
|
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
Percent
|
Aug. 25, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
Term Loan [Member]
Percent
|
Sep. 30, 2011
Credit Agreement [Member]
|
Jun. 30, 2011
Credit Agreement [Member]
|
|
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||||
Short-Term Debt Outstanding | $ 18.4 | $ 14.4 | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||
Long-Term Debt Outstanding | 844.4 | 771.6 | ||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 75.0 | |||||
Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis | LIBOR | |||||
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | 1.00% | |||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 1.825% | |||||
Debt Instrument, Carrying Amount at Period End | 75.0 | |||||
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 250 | 150 | ||||
Letter of Credit Maximum Issuances | $ 40 | |||||
Debt Instrument, Required Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.65 to 1.00 | |||||
Debt Instrument, Actual Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.45 to 1.00 |
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 | ||||||||||
- Definition
This represents the allowed amount of letters of credit issuances under another credit agreement. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of the sum of short-term debt and current maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations, which are due within one year (or one business cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
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
|
Other Income (Expense) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
|
Other Income (Expense) [Line Items] | ||||
AFUDC - Equity | $ 0.6 | $ 1.4 | $ 1.7 | $ 3.4 |
Investment and Other Income (Expense) | (0.1) | (0.8) | 0.6 | 0.4 |
Total Other Income | $ 0.5 | $ 0.6 | $ 2.3 | $ 3.8 |
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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 | ||||||||||
- 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 |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
Percent
|
Sep. 30, 2010
Percent
|
Jun. 30, 2011
Income Tax Benefit, MPUC Approval of Deferral of PPACA [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2011
Income Tax Benefit, MPUC Approval of Deferral of PPACA [Member]
Percent
|
Mar. 31, 2011
DTL Reversal, Revenue Receivable Forgone [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2011
DTL Reversal, Revenue Receivable Forgone [Member]
Percent
|
Mar. 31, 2010
DTA Reversal, Elimination of Medicare Part D [Member]
|
|||||||||
Current Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||
Federal - Current | $ 0 | [1] | $ (31.7) | [1] | $ 0 | [1] | $ (24.5) | [1] | |||||||||
State - Current | (0.1) | [1] | 1.0 | [1] | 0.1 | [1] | 0 | [1] | |||||||||
Total Current Tax Expense (Benefit) | (0.1) | (30.7) | 0.1 | (24.5) | |||||||||||||
Deferred Tax Expense [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||
Federal - Deferred | 8.5 | [2] | 41.0 | [2] | 19.3 | [2] | 59.0 | [2] | |||||||||
State - Deferred | 4.5 | [2] | 1.2 | [2] | 6.0 | [2] | 6.7 | [2] | |||||||||
Investment tax Credit Amortization | (0.2) | (0.3) | (0.7) | (0.7) | |||||||||||||
Total Deferred Tax Expense | 12.8 | 41.9 | 24.6 | 65.0 | |||||||||||||
Total Income Tax Expense | 12.7 | 11.2 | 24.7 | 40.5 | |||||||||||||
Income Tax Expense, Unusual/Nonrecurring Items [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||
Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions | 2.9 | 6.2 | 4.0 | ||||||||||||||
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations | 24.90% | 39.60% | |||||||||||||||
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments | 2.90% | 6.20% | |||||||||||||||
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate | 41.00% | ||||||||||||||||
Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits | 11.4 | 11.4 | |||||||||||||||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate | $ 0.6 | $ 0.6 | |||||||||||||||
|
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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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 | ||||||||||
- 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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
The portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate attributable to all other items not otherwise listed in the existing taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
A credit or adjustment for government or taxing authority authorized decrease in taxes owed as a result of meeting certain tax policy conditions. 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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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 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 total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
|
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | ||||
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities, Income Taxes | $ (1.1) | $ 0.3 | $ (0.3) | $ (0.1) |
Unrealized Loss on Derivatives, Income Taxes | (0.2) | 0 | (0.2) | 0 |
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Income Taxes | $ 0.3 | $ 0.2 | $ 0.8 | $ 0.7 |
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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
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
|
Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
|
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] | ||||
Net Income | $ 20.5 | $ 19.5 | $ 74.5 | $ 61.7 |
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] | ||||
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities, Net of income taxes of $(1.1), $0.3, $(0.3) and $(0.1) | (1.4) | 0.4 | (0.3) | (0.1) |
Unrealized Loss on Derivatives, Net of income taxes of $(0.2), $-, $(0.2) and $- | (0.3) | 0 | (0.3) | 0 |
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Net of income taxes of $0.3, $0.2, $0.8 and $0.7 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 1.1 | 0.9 |
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | (1.4) | 0.7 | 0.5 | 0.8 |
Total Comprehensive Income | 19.1 | 20.2 | 75.0 | 62.5 |
Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | (0.1) | (0.2) | (0.3) |
Comprehensive Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 19.1 | $ 20.3 | $ 75.2 | $ 62.8 |
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 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 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 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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
This element represents Other Comprehensive Income or Loss, Net of Tax, for the period attributable to the parent entity. 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. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
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
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
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
|
Earnings Per Share and Common Stock (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
|
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | ||||
Options to Purchase Shares of Common Stock Excluded (Shares) | 0.4 | |||
Earnings Per Share - Basic [Abstract] | ||||
Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 20.5 | $ 19.6 | $ 74.7 | $ 62.0 |
Common Shares | 35.6 | 34.4 | 35.1 | 34.1 |
Earnings Per Share | $ 0.57 | $ 0.57 | $ 2.13 | $ 1.82 |
Dilutive Securities (Shares) | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Earnings Per Share - Diluted [Abstract] | ||||
Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 20.5 | $ 19.6 | $ 74.7 | $ 62.0 |
Common Shares | 35.7 | 34.5 | 35.2 | 34.2 |
Earnings Per Share | $ 0.57 | $ 0.56 | $ 2.12 | $ 1.81 |
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
|
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
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
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 employer's best estimate, as soon as it can be reasonably determined, of contributions expected to be paid to the plan in the current remaining fiscal period. Estimated contributions may be presented in the aggregate combining (1) contributions required by funding regulations or laws, (2) discretionary contributions, and (3) noncash contributions. No definition available.
|
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
Amount of the period's gross receipts received from the prescription drug subsidy, which is to be used in the roll forward of the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation of an applicable postretirement benefit plan. 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
|
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 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
Capacity of a transmission line in kilovolts. No definition available.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Date of purchase of a transmission line. No definition available.
|
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
Date of contract expiration of 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
|
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 | ||||||||||
- 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
Filing date of petition to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) seeking updated rates for additional investments and expenditures. 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 phases for project. No definition available.
|
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.
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Date of purchase of a transmission line. No definition available.
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
---|---|
Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts [Line Items] | |
Minimum Annual Payment Obligation, Current Year | $ 15.7 |
Minimum Annual Payment Obligation, Year Two | 15.8 |
Minimum Annual Payment Obligation, Year Three | $ 16.3 |
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 third 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 - Leasing Agreements (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
---|---|
Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current | $ 8.1 |
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years | 8.4 |
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years | 8.5 |
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years | 8.7 |
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years | 8.4 |
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter | 44.7 |
BNI Coal Dragline Lease
|
|
Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |
Annual Lease Payment | 2.8 |
Leasing Agreement Expiration Date | 2027 |
Termination Fee | $ 3.0 |
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 | ||||||||||
- 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
|
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 - Solid and Hazardous Waste (Details) (Manufactured Gas Plant Site [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2011
|
---|---|
Manufactured Gas Plant Site [Member]
|
|
Solid and Hazardous Waste [Line Items] | |
Remediation Costs | $ 0.5 |
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
|
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 | ||||||||||
- Details
|
X | ||||||||||
- Definition
Amount of surety bonds that are available for future payment obligations. No definition available.
|
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
|
X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Legal Proceedings (Details) (Pending or Threatened Litigation [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended |
---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
|
Pending or Threatened Litigation [Member]
|
|
Legal Proceedings [Line Items] | |
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value | $ 20.0 |
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
|