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Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)
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9 Months Ended | |
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Jun. 30, 2013
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| Document and Entity Information [Abstract] | ||
| 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 | $ 1,989,608,714 | |
| Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 44,499,229 | |
| Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2014 | |
| Document Fiscal Period Focus | Q3 | |
| Document Type | 10-Q | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 30, 2014 |
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- Definition
If the value is true, then the document is an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
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- Definition
End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal period of the document report. For a first quarter 2006 quarterly report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, the first fiscal quarter should be given as the fiscal period focus. Values: FY, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, H1, H2, M9, T1, T2, T3, M8, CY. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal year of the document report in CCYY format. For a 2006 annual report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, fiscal 2006 should be given as the fiscal year focus. Example: 2006. No definition available.
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- Definition
The end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements containing historical data, it is the date up through which that historical data is presented. If there is no historical data in the report, use the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
The type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, 485BPOS, etc). The document type is limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type, or the word "Other". No definition available.
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- Definition
A unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Indicate number of shares or other units outstanding of each of registrant's classes of capital or common stock or other ownership interests, if and as stated on cover of related periodic report. Where multiple classes or units exist define each class/interest by adding class of stock items such as Common Class A [Member], Common Class B [Member] or Partnership Interest [Member] onto the Instrument [Domain] of the Entity Listings, Instrument. No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" whether registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate whether the registrant is one of the following: (1) Large Accelerated Filer, (2) Accelerated Filer, (3) Non-accelerated Filer, (4) Smaller Reporting Company (Non-accelerated) or (5) Smaller Reporting Accelerated Filer. Definitions of these categories are stated in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition
State aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to price at which the common equity was last sold, or average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. The public float should be reported on the cover page of the registrants form 10K. No definition available.
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- Definition
The exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Is used on Form Type: 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, 20-F, 6-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q/A, 20-F/A, 6-K/A, N-CSR, N-Q, N-1A. No definition available.
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet to indicate that the entity has entered into (1) purchase or supply arrangements that will require expending a portion of its resources to meet the terms thereof, and (2) is exposed to potential losses or, less frequently, gains, arising from (a) possible claims against a company's resources due to future performance under contract terms, and (b) possible losses or likely gains from uncertainties that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events that are deemed likely to occur do occur or fail to occur. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable common stock (or common stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable common shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount after allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences and carryforwards, net of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences expected to be realized or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences, net of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences and carryforwards net of valuation allowances expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee. This is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of (a) interest payable on all forms of debt, including trade payables, that has been incurred, and (b) dividends declared but unpaid on equity securities issued by the entity and outstanding (also includes dividends collected on behalf of another owner of securities that are being held by the entity). Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount after valuation and LIFO reserves of inventory expected to be sold, or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities that are recognized. Liabilities are probable future sacrifices of economic benefits arising from present obligations of an entity to transfer assets or provide services to other entities in the future. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of liabilities and equity items, including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Amount of long-term debt, after unamortized discount or premium, scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying amount of long-term debt, net of unamortized discount or premium, excluding amounts to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer (current maturities). Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The total amount of investments that are intended to be held for an extended period of time (longer than one operating cycle). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- 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 (that is, noncontrolling interest, previously referred to as minority interest). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of the portions of long-term notes payable due within one year or the operating cycle if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- 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
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount of current liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer) not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Includes 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. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
This represents the noncurrent liability for underfunded plans recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement defined benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs of regulated entities that are not expected to be recovered through revenue sources within one year or the normal operating cycle if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The amount for the individual regulatory noncurrent liability as itemized in a table of regulatory noncurrent liabilities as of the end of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The cumulative amount of the reporting entity's undistributed earnings or deficit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of stockholders' equity (deficit), net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity, attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests. Amount excludes temporary equity. Alternate caption for the concept is permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for statutory income, sales, use, payroll, excise, real, property and other taxes. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Fair value of unearned shares for all classes of common stock and nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) held by an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Includes the sale of shares or the issuance treasury shares to an ESOP. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Consolidated Balance Sheet Parentheticals (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
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Dec. 31, 2013
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| Accounts Receivable [Abstract] | ||
| Accounts Receivable, Allowance | $ 1.0 | $ 1.1 |
| Common Stock [Abstract] | ||
| Common Stock, Par Value | $ 0.00 | $ 0.00 |
| Common Stock, Shares Authorized | 80.0 | 80.0 |
| Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 44.5 | 41.4 |
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- Definition
A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Face amount per share of no-par value common stock. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
The maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Number of shares of common stock outstanding. Common stock represent the ownership interest in a corporation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Consolidated Statement of Income (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
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| Consolidated Statement of Income [Abstract] | ||||
| Operating Revenue | $ 288.9 | $ 251.0 | $ 846.1 | $ 750.4 |
| Operating Expenses [Abstract] | ||||
| Fuel and Purchased Power | 88.9 | 80.5 | 268.7 | 245.7 |
| Operating and Maintenance | 105.7 | 102.7 | 340.6 | 311.2 |
| Depreciation | 33.5 | 29.4 | 99.5 | 86.3 |
| Total Operating Expenses | 228.1 | 212.6 | 708.8 | 643.2 |
| Operating Income | 60.8 | 38.4 | 137.3 | 107.2 |
| Other Income (Expense) [Abstract] | ||||
| Interest Expense | (13.2) | (12.7) | (39.5) | (37.8) |
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 5.3 | 4.9 | 15.6 | 15.1 |
| Other | 2.1 | 3.3 | 6.0 | 7.5 |
| Total Other Expense | (5.8) | (4.5) | (17.9) | (15.2) |
| Income Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 55.0 | 33.9 | 119.4 | 92.0 |
| Income Tax Expense | 13.4 | 8.7 | 27.1 | 20.3 |
| Net Income | 41.6 | 25.2 | 92.3 | 71.7 |
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | 0 | 0.4 | 0 |
| Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 41.6 | $ 25.2 | $ 91.9 | $ 71.7 |
| Average Shares of Common Stock and Per Share Data [Abstract] | ||||
| Basic (in shares) | 42.9 | 39.8 | 42.1 | 39.4 |
| Diluted (in shares) | 42.9 | 39.9 | 42.3 | 39.5 |
| Basic Earnings Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.97 | $ 0.63 | $ 2.18 | $ 1.82 |
| Diluted Earnings Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.97 | $ 0.63 | $ 2.17 | $ 1.81 |
| Dividends Per Share of Common Stock | $ 0.49 | $ 0.475 | $ 1.47 | $ 1.425 |
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- Definition
Aggregate dividends declared during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate depreciation, depletion and amortization expense in the current period for the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets directly related to goods produced and sold during the reporting period. No definition available.
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- Definition
Cost of electricity purchased as well as fuel used to generate electricity used in operations and sold during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Total costs of sales and operating expenses for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- 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
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- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of the cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The aggregate amount of income or expense from ancillary business-related activities (that is to say, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations except for the portion of these expenses which can be clearly related to production and included in cost of sales or services. Includes selling, general and administrative expense. No definition available.
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- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
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- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of revenue recognized from goods sold, services rendered, insurance premiums, or other activities that constitute an earning process. Includes, but is not limited to, investment and interest income before deduction of interest expense when recognized as a component of revenue, and sales and trading gain (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
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| Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||
| Net Income | $ 41.6 | $ 25.2 | $ 92.3 | $ 71.7 |
| Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||
| Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities, Net of Income Taxes of $-, $(0.3), $0.1, and $(0.2) | (0.1) | (0.5) | 0.1 | (0.4) |
| Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives, Net of Income Taxes of $-, $(0.1), $0.1 and $- | 0.1 | (0.1) | 0.1 | 0 |
| Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Income Taxes of $0.2, $0.3, $0.6 and $0.8 | 0.2 | 0.3 | 0.8 | 1.1 |
| Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0.2 | (0.3) | 1.0 | 0.7 |
| Total Comprehensive Income | 41.8 | 24.9 | 93.3 | 72.4 |
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | 0 | 0.4 | 0 |
| Comprehensive Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 41.8 | $ 24.9 | $ 92.9 | $ 72.4 |
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- Definition
Amount after tax of increase (decrease) in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from net income and other comprehensive income, attributable to parent entity. Excludes changes in equity resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount after tax of increase (decrease) in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss), attributable to noncontrolling interests. Excludes changes in equity resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax of increase (decrease) in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from net income and other comprehensive income. Excludes changes in equity resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax and reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax and reclassification adjustments, of (increase) decrease in accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss related to pension and other postretirement defined benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax of increase (decrease) in accumulated gain (loss) from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges and an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gain (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax, before reclassification adjustments, of unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities. 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
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|
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Parentheticals (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
|
|
| Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Parentheticals [Abstract] | ||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax | $ 0 | $ (0.3) | $ 0.1 | $ (0.2) |
| Unrealized Gain on Derivatives, Tax | 0 | (0.1) | 0.1 | 0 |
| Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax | $ 0.2 | $ 0.3 | $ 0.6 | $ 0.8 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of tax (expense) benefit, after reclassification adjustments, of (increase) decrease in accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss related to pension and other postretirement defined benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of tax expense (benefit), before reclassification adjustments, related to increase (decrease) in accumulated gain (loss) from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges and an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gain (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of tax expense (benefit) before reclassification adjustments of unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of income recognized in the current period that reflects income associated with the reduced liability of the PPAs acquired in a business acquisition. As noncash income, this element is subtracted from net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Gain or loss on sale or disposal of other assets. Also included are investments. 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. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of noncash expense included in interest expense to issue debt and obtain financing associated with the related debt instruments. Alternate captions include noncash interest expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are the amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Includes effect from exchange rate changes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from 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
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 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 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other current operating liabilities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other noncurrent operating assets not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other noncurrent operating liabilities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. No definition available.
|
| 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 for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as funds held in escrow) and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as investing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from financing activities, including discontinued operations. Financing activity cash flows include obtaining resources from owners and providing them with a return on, and a return of, their investment; borrowing money and repaying amounts borrowed, or settling the obligation; and obtaining and paying for other resources obtained from creditors on long-term credit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from investing activities, including discontinued operations. Investing activity cash flows include making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments and property, plant, and equipment and other productive assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from operating activities, including discontinued operations. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value not defined as investing or financing activities. 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 during the period for redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interests. No definition available.
|
| 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
Amount of cash outflow in the form of ordinary dividends to common shareholders of the parent entity. 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 business, net of the cash acquired from the purchase. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of or advances to an entity that is related to it but not strictly controlled (for example, an unconsolidated subsidiary, affiliate, and joint venture or equity method investment) or the acquisition of an additional interest in a subsidiary (controlled entity). 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 amount of pension and other (such as medical, dental and life insurance) postretirement benefit costs recognized during the period for (1) defined benefit plans (periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss) on assets, prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments) and for (2) defined contribution plans (to the extent that a plan's defined contributions to an individual's account are to be made for periods in which that individual renders services, the net cost for a period is the contribution called for in that period; if a plan calls for contributions for periods after an individual retires or terminates, the estimated cost is accrued during the employee's service period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from long-term debt supported by a written promise to pay an obligation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from cash and cash items that are not available for withdrawal or usage. 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 expense related to write-down of receivables to the amount expected to be collected. Includes, but is not limited to, accounts receivable and notes receivable. 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
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Operations and Significant Accounting Policies
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and 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.
Other Non-Current Assets. As of September 30, 2014, included in Other Non-Current Assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet was restricted cash of $4.9 million related to ALLETE Clean Energy’s wind energy facilities debt service and other requirements. As of December 31, 2013, the Company had restricted cash of $5.4 million related to cash held in escrow pending the closing of the wind energy facilities acquisition, which was completed on January 30, 2014. (See Note 4. Acquisition.)
NOTE 1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information.
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. Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. In July 2013, the FASB issued an accounting standard update on the financial statement presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. An unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. To the extent an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. This guidance was adopted in the first quarter of 2014, and did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. In April 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update modifying the criteria for determining which disposals should be presented as discontinued operations and modifying the related disclosure requirements. Additionally, the new guidance requires that a business which qualifies as held for sale upon acquisition should be reported as discontinued operations. The new guidance will be effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015, and will apply prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale. This guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. NOTE 1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) Revenue from Contracts with Customers. In May 2014, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires expanded disclosures relating to the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required regarding customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. This accounting guidance is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2017 using one of two prescribed retrospective methods. Early adoption is not permitted for public companies. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. |
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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.
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Business Segments
|
9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Business Segments [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 regulated utility that owns and maintains electric transmission assets in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Illinois. Investments and Other is comprised primarily of BNI Coal, our coal mining operations in North Dakota, ALLETE Clean Energy, our business which acquired three wind energy facilities in January 2014, and is aimed at developing or acquiring capital projects that create energy solutions via wind, solar, biomass, midstream gas and oil infrastructure, among other energy-related projects, and ALLETE Properties, our Florida real estate investment. Investments and Other also includes other business development and corporate expenditures, unallocated interest expense, a small amount of non-rate base generation, approximately 5,000 acres of land in Minnesota, and earnings on cash and investments.
NOTE 2. BUSINESS SEGMENTS (Continued)
NOTE 2. BUSINESS SEGMENTS (Continued)
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The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Investments
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| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investments [Text Block] | INVESTMENTS Investments. At September 30, 2014, our investment portfolio included the real estate assets of ALLETE Properties, debt and equity securities consisting primarily of securities held in other postretirement plans to fund employee benefits, the cash equivalents within these plans, and other assets consisting primarily of land in Minnesota.
NOTE 3. INVESTMENTS (Continued)
Land Inventory. Land inventory is accounted for as held for use and is recorded at cost, unless the carrying value is determined not to be recoverable in accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment, in which case the land inventory is written down to fair value. Land values are reviewed for indicators of impairment on a quarterly basis and no impairments were recorded for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2014 (none for the year ended December 31, 2013). Long-Term Finance Receivables. As of September 30, 2014, long-term finance receivables were $1.4 million net of an allowance ($1.4 million net of an allowance as of December 31, 2013). Long-term finance receivables are collateralized by property sold, accrue interest at market-based rates and are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of September 30, 2014, we had an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.6 million ($0.6 million as of December 31, 2013).
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The entire disclosure for investments, including all tables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Acquisition
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| Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] | ACQUISITION On January 30, 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired wind energy facilities located in Lake Benton, Minnesota (Lake Benton), Storm Lake, Iowa (Storm Lake) and Condon, Oregon (Condon) from The AES Corporation (AES) for $26.9 million. ALLETE Clean Energy also has an option to acquire a fourth wind energy facility from AES in Armenia Mountain, Pennsylvania (Armenia Mountain), in June 2015. The acquisition supports ALLETE’s strategy to pursue energy-centric initiatives through ALLETE Clean Energy that include less carbon intensive and more sustainable energy sources. Lake Benton, Storm Lake and Condon have 104 MW, 77 MW and 50 MW of generating capability, respectively. Lake Benton and Storm Lake began commercial operations in 1998, while Condon began operations in 2002. All three wind energy facilities have PPAs in place for their entire output, which expire in various years between 2019 and 2032. Pursuant to the acquisition agreement, ALLETE Clean Energy has an option to acquire the 101 MW Armenia Mountain wind energy facility in June 2015. Armenia Mountain began operations in 2009. NOTE 4. ACQUISITION (Continued) ALLETE Clean Energy acquired a controlling interest in the limited liability company (LLC) which owns Lake Benton and Storm Lake, and a controlling interest in the LLC that owns Condon. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. In connection with finalizing purchase price accounting, the Company recorded minor adjustments to certain assets and liabilities in the second quarter of 2014, which are reflected in the table below. These adjustments had no impact on the results of operations. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method.
ALLETE Clean Energy incurred $1.4 million after-tax of acquisition-related costs during the first quarter of 2014, which were expensed when incurred and were recorded in Other Expenses on the Consolidated Statement of Income. The results of operations of this business from its acquisition date are included in the Investments and Other segment. The pro forma impact of this acquisition was not significant to the results of the Company for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2014 or September 30, 2013. On February 11, 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy purchased the non-controlling interest related to Lake Benton and Storm Lake for $6.0 million. This was accounted for as an equity transaction, and no gain or loss was recognized in net income or other comprehensive income. |
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The entire disclosure for a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. The disclosure may include leverage buyout transactions (as applicable). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Derivatives
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| Derivatives [Text Block] | DERIVATIVES We have one variable-to-fixed interest rate swap (Swap), designated as a cash flow hedge, in order to manage the interest rate risk associated with a $75.0 million Term Loan which represents approximately 5 percent of the Company’s outstanding long-term debt, including long-term debt due within one year, as of September 30, 2014. (See Note 9. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt.) The Swap has an effective date of August 25, 2014, and matures on August 25, 2015. The Swap involves the receipt of the one-month LIBOR in exchange for fixed interest payments over the life of the agreement at 0.75 percent without an exchange of the underlying notional amount. Cash flows from the Swap are expected to be highly effective. If it is determined that the Swap ceases to be effective, we will prospectively discontinue hedge accounting. When applicable, we use the shortcut method to assess hedge effectiveness. If the shortcut method is not applicable, we assess effectiveness using the “change-in-variable-cash-flows” method. Our assessment of hedge effectiveness resulted in no ineffectiveness recorded for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2014. As of September 30, 2014, the fair value of the Swap was a $0.4 million liability which was included in Other Current Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value as of December 31, 2013, included an additional variable to fixed interest rate swap that expired on August 26, 2014, with an aggregate fair value at December 31, 2013 of $0.6 million of which$0.3 million was included in Other Non-Current Liabilities and $0.3 million was included in Other Current Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Changes in the fair value of the Swap were recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Cash flows from the Swap are presented in the same category as the hedged item on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Amounts recorded in Other Comprehensive Income related to the Swap will be recorded in earnings when the hedged transaction occurs or when it is probable it will not occur. Gains or losses on the interest rate hedging transaction are reflected as a component of Interest Expense on the Consolidated Statement of Income. |
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The entire disclosure for derivative instruments and hedging activities including, but not limited to, risk management strategies, non-hedging derivative instruments, assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Fair Value
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Fair Value [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 10. Fair Value to the consolidated financial statements in our 2013 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, 2014, and December 31, 2013. 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 these assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. The estimated fair value of Cash and Cash Equivalents listed on the Consolidated Balance Sheet approximates the carrying amount and therefore is excluded from the recurring fair value measures in the tables below. NOTE 6. FAIR VALUE (Continued)
There was no activity in Level 3 during the quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013. For the quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, 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 in the table 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 (Level 2).
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The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Regulatory Matters
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| Regulatory Matters [Text Block] | REGULATORY MATTERS Electric Rates. Entities within our Regulated Operations segment file for periodic rate revisions with the MPUC, the FERC or the PSCW. 2010 Minnesota Rate Case. Minnesota Power’s current retail rates are based on a 2011 MPUC retail rate order, effective June 1, 2011, that allows for a 10.38 percent return on common equity and a 54.29 percent equity ratio. FERC-Approved Wholesale Rates. Minnesota Power’s non-affiliated municipal customers consist of 16 municipalities in Minnesota. SWL&P, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ALLETE, is a private utility in Wisconsin and also a customer of Minnesota Power. In April 2014, Minnesota Power amended its formula-based wholesale electric sales contract with the Nashwauk Public Utilities Commission, extending the term through June 30, 2026. The electric service agreements with the remaining 15 Minnesota municipal customers and SWL&P are effective through June 30, 2019. The rates included in these agreements are set each July 1 based on a cost-based formula methodology, using estimated costs and a rate of return that is equal to our authorized rate of return for Minnesota retail customers (currently 10.38 percent). The formula-based rate methodology also provides for a yearly true-up calculation for actual costs incurred. The contract terms include a termination clause requiring a three-year notice to terminate. Under the Nashwauk Public Utilities Commission agreement, no termination notice may be given prior to July 1, 2023. Under the agreements with the remaining 15 municipal customers and SWL&P, no termination notices may be given prior to June 30, 2016. 2012 Wisconsin Rate Case. SWL&P’s current retail rates are based on a 2012 PSCW retail rate order, effective January 1, 2013, that allows for a 10.9 percent return on common equity. Transmission Cost Recovery Rider. Minnesota Power has an approved cost recovery rider in place for certain transmission investments and expenditures. In November 2013, the MPUC approved Minnesota Power’s updated billing factor which allows Minnesota Power to charge retail customers on a current basis for the costs of constructing certain transmission facilities plus a return on the capital invested. We filed a petition on April 24, 2014, to include additional transmission investments and expenditures in customer billing rates. Renewable Cost Recovery Rider. The Bison Wind Energy Center in North Dakota currently consists of 292 MW of nameplate capacity and was completed in various phases through 2012. Customer billing rates for our Bison Wind Energy Center were approved by the MPUC in a December 2013 order. Construction of Bison 4, a 205 MW wind project in North Dakota, which is an addition to our Bison Wind Energy Center, commenced and is expected to be completed by the end of 2014. The total project investment for Bison 4 is estimated to be approximately $345 million, of which $288 million was spent through September 30, 2014. On January 17, 2014, the MPUC approved Minnesota Power’s petition seeking cost recovery for investments and expenditures related to Bison 4. We included Bison 4 as part of our renewable resources rider factor filing along with the Company’s other renewable projects in a filing on April 29, 2014, which, upon approval, will authorize updated rates to be included on customer bills. Minnesota Power has also filed a petition on July 3, 2014 with the MPUC seeking cost recovery for investments and expenditures related to the restoration and repair of Thomson which was damaged during 2012. The total project investment for Thomson is estimated to be approximately $90 million, of which $80 million, net of insurance, was spent through September 30, 2014. (See Note 15. Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies.) Integrated Resource Plan. In a November 2013 order, the MPUC approved Minnesota Power’s 2013 Integrated Resource Plan which details our “EnergyForward” strategic plan and includes an analysis of a variety of existing and future energy resource alternatives and a projection of customer cost impact by class. Significant elements of the “EnergyForward” plan include major wind investments in North Dakota, installation of emissions control technology at Boswell Unit 4, planning for the proposed GNTL, conversion of Laskin from coal to natural gas in the second quarter of 2015 and retiring Taconite Harbor Unit 3 in the second quarter of 2015. NOTE 7. REGULATORY MATTERS (Continued) Boswell Mercury Emissions Reduction Plan. Minnesota Power is implementing a mercury emissions reduction project for Boswell Unit 4 in order to comply with the Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act and the Federal MATS rule. In August 2012, Minnesota Power filed its mercury emissions reduction plan for Boswell Unit 4 with the MPUC and the MPCA. The plan proposes that Minnesota Power install pollution controls by early 2016 to address both the Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act requirements and the Federal MATS rule. Costs to implement the Boswell Unit 4 mercury emissions reduction plan are included in the estimated capital expenditures required for compliance with the MATS rule and are estimated to be approximately $250 million of which $120 million was spent through September 30, 2014. In November 2013, the MPUC issued an order approving the Boswell Unit 4 mercury emissions reduction plan and cost recovery, establishing an environmental improvement rider. Also in November 2013, environmental intervenors filed a petition for reconsideration with the MPUC which was subsequently denied in an order dated January 17, 2014. Intervenors have appealed this order and the Company has filed a response to the appeal. The Minnesota Court of Appeals heard oral argument in September 2014 with a decision expected before the end of 2014. In December 2013, Minnesota Power filed a petition with the MPUC to establish customer billing rates for the approved environmental improvement rider based on actual and estimated investments and expenditures, which was approved in an order dated July 2, 2014. Great Northern Transmission Line (GNTL). Minnesota Power and Manitoba Hydro have proposed construction of the GNTL, an approximately 220-mile 500 kV transmission line, between Manitoba and Minnesota’s Iron Range. The GNTL is subject to various federal and state regulatory approvals. In October 2013, a Certificate of Need application was filed with the MPUC with respect to the GNTL. In an order dated January 8, 2014, the MPUC determined that the Certificate of Need application was complete and referred the docket to an administrative law judge for a contested case proceeding. On April 15, 2014, Minnesota Power filed a route permit application with the MPUC and a request for a presidential permit to cross the U.S.-Canadian border with the U.S. Department of Energy. In an order dated July 2, 2014, the MPUC determined the route permit application to be complete. Manitoba Hydro must also obtain regulatory and governmental approvals related to new transmission line and hydroelectric generation development in Canada. Upon receipt of all applicable permits and approvals, construction of the GNTL is anticipated to begin in 2016, and to be completed in 2020. Conservation Improvement Program (CIP). Minnesota has enacted legislation establishing an annual energy-savings goal for each utility of 1.5 percent of annual retail energy sales. On April 1, 2014, Minnesota Power submitted its 2013 CIP filing that requested a CIP financial incentive of $8.7 million based upon MPUC procedures. The requested CIP financial incentive was approved by the MPUC in a hearing held on July 24, 2014, and was recorded as revenue and as a regulatory asset. The approved financial incentive will be recovered through customer billing rates in 2014 and 2015. In 2013, the CIP financial incentive of $7.1 million was recognized in the fourth quarter. CIP financial incentives are recognized in the period in which the MPUC approves the filing. 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 refunded or credited to customers in rates. No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return. The recovery, refund or credit to rates for these regulatory assets and liabilities will occur over the periods either specified by the applicable regulatory authority or over the corresponding period related to the asset or liability. NOTE 7. REGULATORY MATTERS (Continued)
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The entire disclosure for public utilities. No definition available.
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Investment in ATC
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| Investment in ATC [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 based on a FERC-approved 12.2 percent return on common equity dedicated to utility plant. We account for our investment in ATC under the equity method of accounting. As of September 30, 2014, our equity investment in ATC was $120.7 million ($114.6 million at December 31, 2013). In the first nine months of 2014, we invested $3.1 million in ATC, and on October 30, 2014, we invested an additional $0.8 million. We do not expect to make any additional investments in 2014.
NOTE 8. INVESTMENT IN ATC (Continued) ATC’s summarized financial data for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, is as follows:
In November 2013, several customer groups located within the MISO service area filed a complaint with the FERC requesting, among other things, a reduction in the base return on equity used by MISO transmission owners, including ATC, to 9.15 percent. ATC's current authorized return on equity is 12.2 percent. Any change to ATC's return on equity and capital structure could result in lower equity earnings in ATC and dividends from ATC in the future. We own approximately 8 percent of ATC and estimate that for every 50 basis point reduction in ATC’s allowed return on equity our equity earnings in ATC would be impacted annually by approximately $0.5 million on an after-tax basis. |
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The entire disclosure for equity method investments and joint ventures. Equity method investments are investments that give the investor the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of an investee. Joint ventures are entities owned and operated by a small group of businesses as a separate and specific business or project for the mutual benefit of the members of the group. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
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| Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Text Block] | SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT Short-Term Debt. As of September 30, 2014, total short-term debt outstanding was $88.0 million ($27.2 million as of December 31, 2013) and consisted of long-term debt due within one year and notes payable. Long-Term Debt. As of September 30, 2014, total long-term debt outstanding was $1,289.2 million ($1,083.0 million as of December 31, 2013). In conjunction with ALLETE Clean Energy’s January 30, 2014 wind energy facilities acquisition, ALLETE Clean Energy assumed $23.3 million of long-term debt, including $2.2 million due within one year. (See Note 4. Acquisition.) During the first nine months of 2014, we issued $375.0 million of ALLETE first mortgage bonds (Bonds) in the private placement market as shown below:
The Company has the option to prepay all or a portion of the Bonds at its discretion, subject to a make-whole provision; however, each series of bonds is redeemable at par, including, in each case, accrued and unpaid interest, six months prior to the maturity date. The Bonds are subject to additional terms and conditions which are customary for these types of transactions. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the sale of the Bonds to refinance debt, fund utility capital expenditures and/or for general corporate purposes. The Bonds were sold in reliance on an exemption from registration under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, to institutional accredited investors. NOTE 9. SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT (Continued) Financial Covenants. Our long-term debt arrangements contain customary covenants. In addition, our lines of credit and letters of credit supporting certain long-term debt arrangements contain financial covenants. Our compliance with financial covenants is not dependent on debt ratings. The most restrictive financial 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, 2014, our ratio was approximately 0.47 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, 2014, ALLETE was in compliance with its financial covenants. |
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The entire disclosure for information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Other Income (Expense)
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| Other Income (Expense) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) [Text Block] | OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
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The entire disclosure for other income or other expense items (both operating and nonoperating). Sources of nonoperating income or nonoperating expense that may be disclosed, include amounts earned from dividends, interest on securities, profits (losses) on securities, net and miscellaneous other income or income deductions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Income Tax Expense
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Income Tax Expense [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Tax Expense [Text Block] | INCOME TAX EXPENSE
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the effective tax rate was 22.7 percent (22.1 percent for the nine months ended September 30, 2013). The effective tax rate deviated from the statutory rate of approximately 41 percent primarily due to deductions for AFUDC–Equity, investment tax credits, production tax credits and depletion. NOTE 11. INCOME TAX EXPENSE (Continued) Uncertain Tax Positions. As of September 30, 2014, we had gross unrecognized tax benefits of $2.0 million ($1.2 million as of December 31, 2013). Of the total gross unrecognized tax benefits, $0.3 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that, if recognized, would favorably impact the effective income tax rate. The unrecognized tax benefit amounts have been presented as reductions to the tax benefits associated with NOL and tax credit carryforwards on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. ALLETE and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return as well as combined and separate state income tax returns in various jurisdictions. ALLETE is no longer subject to federal examination for years before 2011, or state examination for years before 2005. In September 2013, the U.S. Treasury issued final regulations addressing the tax consequences associated with the acquisition, production and improvement of tangible property. The regulations are generally effective for tax years beginning January 1, 2014. As ALLETE has adopted certain utility-specific guidance for deductible repairs previously issued by the IRS, the final regulation did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. |
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The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
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| Reclassifications Out of Accumualted Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprhensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] | RECLASSIFICATIONS OUT OF ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, for the quarters ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
NOTE 12. RECLASSIFICATIONS OUT OF ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Continued) Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the quarters ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
NOTE 12. RECLASSIFICATIONS OUT OF ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Continued) Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
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The entire disclosure for any adjustments made during the period to avoid double counting in comprehensive income items displayed as part of net income that also had been displayed as part of other comprehensive income in that period or earlier periods. These adjustments include reclassifications to net income of items in accumulated comprehensive income, such as deferred gains or losses on qualifying hedges when hedged item reported in net income, holding gains or losses on available-for-sale securities transferred into trading category, unrealized holding gains or losses on debt securities transferred from held-to-maturity category into available-for-sale category and accumulated translation adjustment attributable to foreign subsidiary or investment in foreign entity upon sale or liquidation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Earnings Per Share and Common Stock
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Earnings Per Share and Common Stock [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Earnings Per Share and Common Stock [Text Block] | EARNINGS PER SHARE AND COMMON STOCK We compute basic earnings per share using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. The difference between basic and diluted earnings per share, if any, arises from outstanding stock options, non-vested restricted stock units, performance share awards granted under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan and common shares under the forward sale agreement (described below). For the quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, zero options to purchase shares of common stock were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share.
NOTE 13. EARNINGS PER SHARE AND COMMON STOCK (Continued) Forward Sale Agreement and Issuance of Common Stock. On February 26, 2014, ALLETE entered into a confirmation of forward sale agreement (Agreement) with a forward counterparty in connection with a public offering of 2.8 million shares of ALLETE common stock. The use of an equity forward transaction substantially eliminates future equity market price risk by fixing a common equity offering sales price under the then existing market conditions, while mitigating immediate share dilution resulting from the offering by postponing the actual issuance of common stock until funds are needed in accordance with our capital investment strategy. Pursuant to the Agreement, the forward counterparty (or its affiliate) borrowed 2.8 million shares of ALLETE common stock (borrowed shares) from third parties and sold them to the underwriters. ALLETE has the right to elect physical, cash or net share settlement under the forward sales agreement, for all or a portion of its obligations under the Agreement. In the event that ALLETE elects physical settlement of the Agreement, it will deliver shares of its common stock in exchange for cash proceeds at the then-applicable forward sale price. The forward sale price is initially $48.01 per share, subject to adjustment as provided in the Agreement. The Agreement provides for settlement at any time on or prior to March 1, 2015. ALLETE expects to physically settle the Agreement in its entirety by delivering 2.8 million shares of its common stock. On September 5, 2014, ALLETE physically settled a portion of its obligations under the Agreement by having delivered approximately 1.4 million shares of common stock in exchange for cash proceeds of $65.0 million. In connection with the public offering of the 2.8 million shares, ALLETE granted the underwriters an option to purchase up to an additional 0.4 million shares of ALLETE common stock (the option shares). The underwriters exercised the option in full and on March 4, 2014, the Company issued and sold the option shares to the underwriters at a price to ALLETE equal to the initial forward sale price for proceeds of $20.2 million. The equity forward transaction was reflected in ALLETE’s diluted earnings per share using the treasury stock method, which resulted in no material dilutive impact to ALLETE’s diluted earnings per share for the quarter or nine months ended September 30, 2014. Prior to any settlement date, any dilutive effect of the Agreement on our earnings per share would only occur during periods when the average market price per share of our common stock is above the per share adjusted forward sales price described above. The equity forward transaction is accounted for as an equity instrument in accordance with the accounting guidance for distinguishing liabilities from equity and the guidance for derivatives. Under the accounting guidance, the transaction qualifies for an exception from derivative accounting because the forward sale transaction is indexed to ALLETE’s stock. Contributions to Pension. On January 10, 2014, ALLETE contributed 0.4 million shares of ALLETE common stock to its pension plan. These shares of ALLETE common stock were contributed in reliance upon an exemption available pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and had an aggregate value of $19.5 million when contributed. |
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The entire disclosure for earnings per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Text Block] | PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Employer Contributions. On January 10, 2014, $19.5 million of ALLETE common stock was contributed to our defined benefit pension plan; we do not expect to make any additional contributions to our defined benefit pension plan in 2014 (no contributions for the nine months ended September 30, 2013). For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, we made no contributions to our other postretirement benefit plan; we do not expect to make any contributions to our other postretirement benefit plan in 2014 ($10.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013). |
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Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies
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| 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 PPAs 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 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, 2014, Square Butte had total debt outstanding of $404.3 million. Annual debt service for Square Butte is expected to be approximately $44 million in each of the years 2014 through 2018, 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, under a long-term contract. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Power Purchase Agreements (Continued) Minnesota Power’s cost of power purchased from Square Butte during the nine months ended September 30, 2014, was $51.8 million ($51.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013). This reflects Minnesota Power’s pro rata share of total Square Butte costs based on the 50 percent output entitlement. Included in this amount was Minnesota Power’s pro rata share of interest expense of $7.9 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 ($7.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013). Minnesota Power’s payments to Square Butte are approved as a purchased power expense for ratemaking purposes by both the MPUC and the FERC. Minnkota Power Sales Agreement. In 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. This sales agreement commenced June 1, 2014. Minnkota Power PPA. In December 2012, Minnesota Power entered into a long-term PPA with Minnkota Power. Under this agreement, Minnesota Power will purchase 50 MW of capacity and the energy associated with that capacity over the term June 2016 through May 2020. The agreement includes a fixed capacity charge and energy pricing that escalates at a fixed rate annually over the term. Oliver Wind I and II 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 energy prices. There are no fixed capacity charges, and we only pay for energy as it is delivered to us. Manitoba Hydro PPAs. Minnesota Power has a long-term PPA with Manitoba Hydro that expires in May 2020. 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. In addition, Minnesota Power has a separate long-term PPA with Manitoba Hydro to purchase surplus energy through April 2022. This energy-only agreement primarily consists of surplus hydro energy on Manitoba Hydro’s system that is delivered to Minnesota Power on a non-firm basis. The pricing is based on forward market prices. Under this agreement, Minnesota Power will purchase at least one million MWh of energy over the contract term. In May 2011, Minnesota Power and Manitoba Hydro signed an additional long-term PPA. The PPA provides for Manitoba Hydro to sell 250 MW of capacity and energy to Minnesota Power for 15 years beginning in 2020. The agreement is subject to construction of additional transmission capacity between Manitoba and the U.S., along with construction of new hydroelectric generating capacity in Manitoba. The capacity price is adjusted annually until 2020 by a change in a governmental inflationary index. The energy price is based on a formula that includes an annual fixed price component adjusted for a change in a governmental inflationary index and a natural gas index, as well as market prices. In July 2014, Minnesota Power and Manitoba Hydro signed a long-term PPA that provides for Manitoba Hydro to sell up to 133 MW of energy to Minnesota Power for 20 years beginning in 2020. The agreement is subject to MPUC approval and the construction of the GNTL. North Dakota Wind Development. Minnesota Power uses the 465-mile, 250 kV DC transmission line that runs from Center, North Dakota, to Duluth, Minnesota to transport increasing amounts of wind energy from North Dakota while gradually phasing out coal-based electricity delivered to our system over this transmission line from Square Butte’s lignite coal-fired generating unit. Our 292 MW Bison Wind Energy Center, located in North Dakota, was completed in various phases through 2012. Customer billing rates for our Bison Wind Energy Center were approved by the MPUC in a December 2013 order. Construction of Bison 4, a 205 MW wind project in North Dakota which is an addition to our Bison Wind Energy Center, has commenced and is expected to be completed by the end of 2014. The total project investment for Bison 4 is estimated to be approximately $345 million, of which $288 million was spent through September 30, 2014. On January 17, 2014, the MPUC approved Minnesota Power’s petition seeking cost recovery for investments and expenditures related to Bison 4. We included Bison 4 as part of our renewable resources rider filing along with the Company’s other renewable projects in a filing on April 29, 2014, which, upon approval, will authorize updated rates to be included on customer bills. Hydro Operations. In June 2012, record rainfall and flooding occurred near Duluth, Minnesota and surrounding areas. The flooding impacted Minnesota Power’s St. Louis River hydro system, particularly Thomson, which had damage to the forebay canal and flooding at the facility. Minnesota Power worked closely with the appropriate regulatory bodies which oversee the hydro system operations, including dams and reservoirs, to restore Thomson and to rebuild the forebay embankment. The forebay rebuild is complete and Minnesota Power commenced filling the forebay canal on October 9, 2014. Minnesota Power continues restoration and upgrade work at the Thomson facility and anticipates partial generation at Thomson in the fourth quarter of 2014. Work is ongoing towards returning to full generation early in 2015 and improving the spillway capacity at the Thomson dam in 2015. Total project costs are estimated to be approximately $90 million, of which $80 million, net of insurance, was spent through September 30, 2014. A request seeking cost recovery of investments and expenditures related to the restoration and repair of Thomson through our renewable resources rider was filed with the MPUC on July 3, 2014. Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts. We have coal supply agreements providing for the purchase of a significant portion of our coal requirements with expiration dates through December 2015. We also have coal transportation agreements in place for the delivery of a significant portion of our coal requirements with expiration dates through December 2015. Currently, Minnesota Power is in discussions regarding the extension of our coal supply and transportation contracts beyond 2015. Our minimum annual payment obligation under these supply and transportation agreements is $9.6 million for the remainder of 2014 and $4.4 million for 2015. Our minimum annual payment obligation 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. Rail congestion has negatively impacted customers throughout the Upper Midwest, affecting agriculture, commodity and energy industries. We have experienced delays in coal deliveries resulting in lower coal inventory levels at our generating stations in Northeastern Minnesota. The Company has taken several proactive steps to conserve inventory, protect customers from increased costs and assure continued reliability. These actions have included temporarily curtailing operations at two smaller generating stations, redirecting coal deliveries to our larger generating stations and short-term energy purchases from regional power suppliers. We have filed a notice of fuel supply emergency with the Department of Energy and have notified the Surface Transportation Board of the need for additional deliveries, requesting their assistance. Minnesota Power’s exposure to price risk for purchased power is significantly mitigated by the current ratemaking process and regulatory framework, which allows recovery of fuel costs in excess of those included in base rates. Leasing Agreements. BNI Coal is obligated to make lease payments for a dragline totaling $2.8 million annually for the lease term, which expires in 2027. BNI Coal has the option at the end of the lease term to renew the lease at fair market value, to purchase the dragline at fair market value, or to surrender the dragline and pay a $3.0 million termination fee. We also lease other properties and equipment under operating lease agreements with terms expiring through 2021. The aggregate amount of minimum lease payments for all operating leases is $12.1 million in 2014, $11.5 million in 2015, $9.5 million in 2016, $8.7 million in 2017, $7.4 million in 2018 and $29.2 million thereafter. Transmission. We continue to make investments in transmission opportunities that strengthen or enhance the transmission grid or take advantage of our geographical location between sources of renewable energy and end users. These include the GNTL and the CapX2020 initiative, as well as investments to enhance our own transmission facilities, investments in other transmission assets (individually or in combination with others), and our investment in ATC. Transmission Investments. Minnesota Power has an approved cost recovery rider in place for certain transmission investments and expenditures. In November 2013, the MPUC approved Minnesota Power’s updated billing factor which allows Minnesota Power to charge retail customers on a current basis for the costs of constructing certain transmission facilities plus a return on the capital invested. We filed a petition on April 24, 2014, to include additional transmission investments and expenditures in customer billing rates. 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 and municipal 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. Minnesota Power is currently participating in the construction of one CapX2020 transmission line project. Minnesota Power also participated in two CapX2020 projects which were previously completed and placed into service in 2011 and 2012. In June 2011, the MPUC approved the route permit for the Minnesota portion of the Fargo to St. Cloud project, which is currently under construction and expected to be in service by 2015. The North Dakota permitting process was completed in August 2012. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Transmission (Continued) Based on projected costs of the three transmission line projects and the allocation agreements among participating utilities, in total Minnesota Power plans to invest between $100 million and $110 million in the CapX2020 initiative through 2015, of which $98 million was spent through September 30, 2014. As future CapX2020 projects are identified, Minnesota Power may elect to participate on a project-by-project basis. Great Northern Transmission Line (GNTL). As a condition of the long-term PPA signed in May 2011 with Manitoba Hydro, construction of additional transmission capacity is required. As a result, Minnesota Power and Manitoba Hydro proposed construction of the GNTL, an approximately 220-mile 500 kV transmission line, between Manitoba and Minnesota’s Iron Range in order to strengthen the electric grid, enhance regional reliability and promote a greater exchange of sustainable energy. The GNTL is subject to various federal and state regulatory approvals. In October 2013, a Certificate of Need application was filed with the MPUC with respect to the GNTL. In an order dated January 8, 2014, the MPUC determined the Certificate of Need application was complete and referred the docket to an administrative law judge for a contested case proceeding. On April 15, 2014, Minnesota Power filed a route permit application with the MPUC and a request for a presidential permit to cross the U.S.-Canadian border with the U.S. Department of Energy. In an order dated July 2, 2014, the MPUC determined the route permit application to be complete. Manitoba Hydro must also obtain regulatory and governmental approvals related to new transmission lines and hydroelectric generation development in Canada. Upon receipt of all applicable permits and approvals, construction of the GNTL is anticipated to begin in 2016, and to be completed in 2020. Total project cost in the U.S., including substation work, is estimated to be between $560 million and $710 million, depending on the final route of the line. Minnesota Power is expected to have majority ownership of the transmission line. 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 expected future restrictive environmental requirements imposed through legislation and/or rulemaking, we anticipate that potential expenditures for environmental matters will be material and will require significant capital investments. Minnesota Power has evaluated various environmental compliance scenarios using possible ranges of future environmental regulations to project power supply trends and impacts on customers. 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 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. All of Minnesota Power’s coal-fired generating facilities are equipped with pollution control equipment such as scrubbers, baghouses and low NOX technologies. Under currently applicable environmental regulations, these facilities are substantially compliant with applicable emission requirements. New Source Review (NSR). In August 2008, Minnesota Power received a Notice of Violation (NOV) from the EPA asserting violations of the NSR requirements of the Clean Air Act at Boswell Units 1, 2, 3 and 4 and Laskin Unit 2. The NOV asserts that seven projects undertaken at these coal-fired plants between the years 1981 and 2000 should have been reviewed under the NSR requirements and that Boswell Unit 4’s 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. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) Minnesota Power reached a settlement with the EPA regarding these NOVs and entered into a Consent Decree which was approved by the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota (Court) on September 29, 2014. The Consent Decree covers Minnesota Power’s Boswell, Laskin, Taconite Harbor, and Rapids Energy Centers. The Consent Decree provides for more stringent emissions limits at all affected units, and the option of refueling, retrofits, or retirements at some units. It also includes the addition of 200 megawatts of wind energy. Minnesota Power will also be required to spend $4.2 million on environmental mitigation projects over the next five years. Under the terms of the Consent Decree, Minnesota Power also paid a $1.4 million civil penalty. In the second quarter of 2014, the Company recorded a liability and corresponding expense associated with the environmental mitigation projects. A liability for the civil penalty was recognized in 2013. Since 2005, the Company has, and will, invest more than $600 million to reduce sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, mercury and particulate matters emissions at its thermal generation facilities, and in 2012 placed in service over 200 MW of renewable wind energy, which fulfills certain obligations under the Consent Decree. In addition, Minnesota Power’s EnergyForward plan also addresses many of the requirements included in the Consent Decree. Under the EnergyForward plan Minnesota Power intends to: 1) retire Taconite Harbor Unit 3, 2) convert Laskin from coal to natural gas, and 3) install emission controls at Boswell Unit 4. The Consent Decree further requires that, by no later than December 31, 2018, Boswell Units 1 and 2 must be retired, refueled, repowered, or emissions rerouted to an existing Boswell scrubber. Minnesota Power estimates that if the Units are not retired, capital expenditures could range between $20 million to $40 million. We are evaluating our options with regard to the future course of action at our Boswell Units 1 and 2 facilities to comply with the Consent Decree, as well as future anticipated environmental regulations. We are required to notify the EPA no later than December 31, 2016 whether we will retire, refuel, repower or reroute Boswell Units 1 and 2. We believe that future capital expenditures or costs to retire would likely be eligible for recovery in rates over time subject to regulatory approval in a rate proceeding. Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). In July 2011, the EPA issued the CSAPR, to address long-range transport of particulate matter and ozone by requiring reductions in SO2 and NOX from electric generating companies in the eastern half of the United States, including Minnesota. However, in August 2012, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (Circuit Court of Appeals) vacated the CSAPR, ordering that the CAIR remain in effect while a CSAPR replacement rule was promulgated. That decision was appealed and, in April 2014, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed the decision, remanding the case to the Circuit Court of Appeals for further proceedings consistent with the U.S. Supreme Court decision. On June 25, 2014, the EPA made a motion to the Circuit Court of Appeals to have the court’s stay of the CSAPR lifted and further asking the court to delay the CSAPR compliance deadlines by three years. The CSAPR would not directly require the installation of controls. Instead, the rule would require facilities to have sufficient emission allowances to cover their emissions on an annual basis. These allowances would be allocated to facilities from each state’s annual budget and could be bought and sold. The CSAPR requirements, if the stay is lifted and the EPA’s motion to toll compliance deadlines is granted, would go into effect in 2015 (Phase I) and 2017 (Phase 2). So long as the Circuit Court of Appeals’ stay of the CSAPR remains in effect, the CAIR regulations continue to apply. Like the CSAPR, the CAIR regulations are intended to address long-range transport of particulate matter and ozone by means of an emissions trading program. Minnesota participation in the CAIR was stayed by EPA administrative action while the EPA promulgated a replacement rule. If the Circuit Court of Appeals lifts its stay of the CSAPR or otherwise upholds the CSAPR on remand, the CSAPR will likely become effective for Minnesota, but compliance deadlines may be extended to allow time for the State of Minnesota to develop its compliance plan. Since 2006, we have significantly reduced emissions at our Laskin, Taconite Harbor and Boswell generating units. Based on our expected generation, these emission reductions would have satisfied Minnesota Power’s SO2 and NOX emission compliance obligations with respect to the EPA-allocated CSAPR allowances for 2013. We are unable to predict any additional compliance costs we might incur as a result of the CSAPR. Regional Haze. The federal Regional Haze Rule requires states to submit SIPs to the EPA to address regional haze visibility impairment in 156 federally-protected parks and wilderness areas. Under the first phase of the Regional Haze Rule, certain large stationary sources, built 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, subject to BART requirements. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) 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. Due to legal challenges at both the state and federal levels, there is currently no applicable compliance deadline for the Regional Haze Rule. If additional regional haze related controls are ultimately required, Minnesota Power will have up to five years from the final rule promulgation date to bring Taconite Harbor Unit 3 into compliance. As part of our 2013 Integrated Resource Plan, which was approved by the MPUC in November 2013, we plan to retire Taconite Harbor Unit 3 in 2015. We believe that the Taconite Harbor Unit 3 retirement will be accomplished before any compliance deadline takes effect. Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) Rule (formerly known as the Electric Generating Unit Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule). Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act, the EPA is required to set emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) for certain source categories. The EPA published the final MATS rule in the Federal Register in February 2012, addressing such emissions from coal-fired utility units greater than 25 MW. There are currently 187 listed HAPs that the EPA is required to evaluate for establishment of MACT standards. In the final MATS rule, the EPA established categories of HAPs, including mercury, trace metals other than mercury, acid gases, dioxin/furans, and organics other than dioxin/furans. The EPA also established emission limits for the first three categories of HAPs, and work practice standards for the remaining categories. Affected sources must be in compliance with the rule by April 2015. States have the authority to grant sources a one-year extension. Minnesota Power was notified by the MPCA that it has approved Minnesota Power’s request for an additional year extending the date of compliance for the Boswell Unit 4 environmental upgrade to April 1, 2016. Compliance at Boswell Unit 4 to address the final MATS rule is expected to result in capital expenditures of approximately $250 million through 2016, of which $120 million was spent through September 30, 2014. Our minimum payment obligation for the environmental upgrade is $103 million for 2014 and $75 million for 2015. Our “EnergyForward” plan, which was approved as part of our 2013 Integrated Resource Plan by the MPUC in an order dated November 12, 2013, also includes the conversion of Laskin Units 1 and 2 to natural gas in 2015, to position the Company for MATS compliance. On January 9, 2014, the MPCA approved Minnesota Power’s application to extend the deadline for Taconite Harbor Unit 3 to comply with MATS to June 1, 2015, in order to align the Unit 3 retirement with MISO’s resource planning year. EPA National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Major Sources: Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Boilers and Process Heaters. In March 2011, a final rule was published in the Federal Register for Industrial Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology (Industrial Boiler MACT). The rule was stayed by the EPA in May 2011, to allow the EPA time to consider additional comments received. The EPA re-proposed the rule in December 2011. In January 2012, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that the EPA stay of the Industrial Boiler MACT was unlawful, effectively reinstating the March 2011 rule and associated compliance deadlines. A final rule based on the December 2011 proposal, which supersedes the March 2011 rule, became effective in December 2012. Major existing sources have until January 31, 2016, to achieve compliance with the final rule. Minnesota Power’s Hibbard Renewable Energy Center and Rapids Energy Center are subject to this rule. We expect compliance to consist largely of adjustments to our operating practices; therefore costs for complying with the final rule are not expected to be material at this time. Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act. In order to comply with the 2006 Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act, Minnesota Power must implement a mercury emissions reduction project for Boswell Unit 4 by December 31, 2018. The Boswell Unit 4 environmental upgrade discussed above, which is required to be completed by April 1, 2016 (see Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) Rule), will fulfill the requirements of the Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act. Costs to implement the Boswell Unit 4 mercury emissions reduction plan are included in the estimated capital expenditures required for compliance with the MATS rule discussed above. (See Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) Rule.) 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 NAAQS, the state is required to adopt plans describing how it will reduce emissions to attain the NAAQS. These state plans often include more stringent air emission limitations on sources of air pollutants than the NAAQS. Four NAAQS have either recently been revised or are currently proposed for revision, as described below. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) Ozone NAAQS. The EPA has proposed to more stringently control emissions that result in ground level ozone. In January 2010, the EPA proposed to revise the 2008 eight-hour ozone standard and to adopt a secondary standard for the protection of sensitive vegetation from ozone-related damage. The EPA was scheduled to decide upon the 2008 eight-hour ozone standard in July 2011, but has since announced that it is deferring revision of this standard until late 2014 or beyond. Court ordered deadlines are in place mandating that the EPA promulgate a proposed rule by December 1, 2014, and a final rule by October 1, 2015. On August 29, 2014, an EPA Policy Assessment suggested lowering the ozone NAAQS from the existing standard of 75 parts per billion (ppb) to between 60 and 70 ppb; however, this has not been finalized and may be subject to change. Consequently, the costs for complying with the final ozone NAAQS cannot be estimated at this time. Particulate Matter NAAQS. The EPA finalized the Particulate Matter NAAQS in September 2006. Since then, the EPA has established more stringent 24-hour average fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and annual PM2.5 standards; the 24-hour coarse particulate matter standard has remained unchanged. The District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals remanded the annual PM2.5 standard to the EPA, requiring consideration of lower annual standard values. The EPA proposed new PM2.5 standards in June 2012. In December 2012, the EPA issued a final rule implementing a more stringent annual PM2.5 standard, while retaining the current 24-hour PM2.5 standard. To implement the new more stringent annual PM2.5 standard, the EPA is also revising aspects of relevant monitoring, designation and permitting requirements. New projects and permits must comply with the new more stringent standard, and compliance with the NAAQS at the facility level is generally demonstrated by modeling. Under the final rule, states will be responsible for additional PM2.5 monitoring, which will likely be accomplished by relocating or repurposing existing monitors. The EPA asked states to submit attainment designations by December 2013, based on already available monitoring data. The EPA believes that most U.S. counties already meet the new standard and plans to finalize designations of attainment by December 2014. For those counties that the EPA does not designate as having already met the requirements of the new standard, specific dates for required attainment will depend on technology availability, state permitting goals, potential legal challenges and other factors. Minnesota is anticipating that it will retain attainment status; however, Minnesota sources may ultimately be required to reduce their emissions to assist with attainment in neighboring states. Accordingly, the costs for complying with the final Particulate Matter NAAQS cannot be estimated at this time. SO2 and NO2 NAAQS. During 2010, the EPA finalized one-hour NAAQS for SO2 and NO2. Ambient monitoring data indicates that Minnesota will likely be in compliance with these new standards; however, the one-hour SO2 NAAQS also may require the EPA to evaluate modeling data to determine attainment. The EPA notified states that their infrastructure SIPs for maintaining attainment of the standard were required to be submitted to the EPA for approval by June 2013. However, the State of Minnesota has delayed completing the documents pending receipt of EPA guidance to states for preparing the SIP submittal. Guidance was expected in 2013 and has been delayed. In late 2011, the MPCA initiated modeling activities that included approximately 65 sources within Minnesota that emit greater than 100 tons of SO2 per year. However, in April 2012, the MPCA notified Minnesota Power that such modeling had been suspended as a result of the EPA’s announcement that the June 2013 SIP submittals would no longer require modeling demonstrations for states, such as Minnesota, where ambient monitors indicate compliance with the new standard. The MPCA is awaiting updated EPA guidance and will communicate with affected sources once the MPCA has more information on how the state will meet the EPA’s SIP requirements. Currently, compliance with these new NAAQS is expected to be required as early as 2017. The costs for complying with the final standards cannot be estimated at this time. In late July 2014, the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (Band) announced it petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to redesignate its reservation airshed from Class II to Class I air quality pursuant to Section 164(c) of the Clean Air Act. The Band does not currently possess authority to directly regulate air quality. Federal Class I air shed status, if granted, would allow the Band to exercise a higher threshold of Clean Air Act protections within the boundaries of the Fond du Lac reservation, including the reservation airshed, near Cloquet, Minnesota. Five other reservations across the U.S. have applied for and received Class I status. Public comment on this petition is scheduled to end on November 10, 2014, at which point it is anticipated the Band will formally submit the request to the EPA. The timeline for approval, denial, or modification of the request by the EPA is unknown. The Company has requested additional clarification from the Band and the MPCA on the final regulatory structure and authorities that may arise from a Class I redesignation. The Company cannot determine the effect of potential Class I status until the Band’s application is granted and its regulations are established, and therefore cannot determine the financial impact, if any, on the Company’s operations. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) Climate Change. The scientific community generally accepts that emissions of GHG are linked to global climate change. Climate change creates physical and financial risks. Physical risks could include, but are not limited to: increased or decreased precipitation and water levels in lakes and rivers; increased temperatures; and changes in the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events. These all have the potential to affect the Company’s business and operations. We are addressing climate change by taking the following steps that also ensure reliable and environmentally compliant generation resources to meet our customers’ requirements:
President Obama’s Climate Action Plan. In June 2013, President Obama announced a Climate Action Plan (CAP) that calls for implementation of measures that reduce GHG emissions in the U.S., emphasizing means such as expanded deployment of renewable energy resources, energy and resource conservation, energy efficiency improvements and a shift to fuel sources that have lower emissions. Certain portions of the CAP directly address electric utility GHG emissions. EPA Regulation of GHG Emissions. In May 2010, the EPA issued the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) and Title V Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule (Tailoring Rule). The Tailoring Rule establishes permitting thresholds required to address GHG emissions for new facilities, existing facilities that undergo major modifications and 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. However, GHG requirements are likely to be added to our existing Title V operating permits by the MPCA as these permits are renewed or amended. 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 Best Available Control Technology (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 that these control technologies could be determined to be BACT on a project-by-project basis. In June 2014, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated the aspect of the Tailoring Rule that established lower permitting thresholds for GHG than for other pollutants subject to PSD. However, the court also upheld the EPA’s power to require BACT for GHG from sources already subject to regulation under PSD. Minnesota Power’s coal-fired generating facilities are already subject to regulation under PSD, so we anticipate that ultimately PSD for GHG will apply to our facilities, but the timing of the promulgation of a replacement for the Tailoring Rule is uncertain. The PSD applies to existing facilities only when they undertake a major modification that increases emissions. We are unable to predict the compliance costs that we might incur. In March 2012, the EPA announced a proposed rule to apply CO2 emission New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), under Section 111(b) of the Clean Air Act, to new fossil fuel-fired electric generating units. The proposed NSPS would have applied only to new or re-powered units. Based on the volume of comments received, the EPA announced its intent to re-propose the rule. In September 2013, the EPA retracted its March 2012 proposal and announced the release of a revised NSPS for new or re-powered utility CO2 emissions. In June 2014, the EPA announced a proposed rule under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act for existing power plants entitled “Carbon Pollution Emission Guidelines for Existing Stationary Sources: Electric Generating Units” (Clean Power Plan or CPP). The EPA intends to finalize such rules by June 1, 2015. In the Clean Power Plan, the EPA proposes to set state-specific rate-based goals for CO2 emissions from the power sector that the EPA maintains are achievable if a state undertakes a combination of measures across its power sector that constitute the EPA’s guideline for a Best System of Emission Reductions (BSER). The EPA proposed that BSER is comprised of four building blocks: 1) improved fossil fuel power plants efficiency, 2) increased reliance on low-emitting power sources by generating more electricity from existing natural gas combined cycle units, 3) building more or preserving existing zero- and low-emitting power sources, including renewables and nuclear energy and 4) more efficient electricity use by consumers. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) The EPA then established state goals, expressed as a carbon intensity target in CO2 tons per megawatt hour, by estimating the achievability of the building blocks in each state. Using 2012 emissions data, the EPA derived interim goals for states to be met over the years 2020-2029, as well as a final goal to be met in 2030 and thereafter. Under the CPP, each state would be required to develop a state implementation plan by June 30, 2016 intended to achieve the state carbon intensity goals. Minnesota Power is currently evaluating the CPP as it relates to the State of Minnesota and its potential impact on the Company. Comments to the EPA on the CPP are due in December 2014. Minnesota has already initiated several measures consistent with those called for under the CAP and CPP. Minnesota Power is implementing its “EnergyForward” strategic plan that provides for significant emission reductions and diversifying its electricity generation mix to include more renewable and natural gas energy. (See Regulated Operations - EnergyForward.) We are unable to predict the GHG emission compliance costs we might incur; however, the costs could be material. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case. Minnesota’s Next Generation Energy Act of 2007. On April 14, 2014, a U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota ruled that part of Minnesota’s Next Generation Energy Act of 2007 violated the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The portions of the law which were ruled unconstitutional prohibited the importation of power from a new CO2-producing facility outside of Minnesota and prohibited the entry into new long-term power purchase agreements that would increase CO2 emissions in Minnesota. State officials have appealed the decision. Water. The Clean Water Act requires NPDES permits be obtained from the EPA (or, when delegated, from individual state pollution control agencies) for any wastewater discharged into navigable waters. We have obtained all necessary NPDES permits, including NPDES storm water permits for applicable facilities, to conduct our operations. Clean Water Act - Aquatic Organisms. In April 2011, the EPA announced proposed regulations under Section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act that set standards applicable to cooling water intake structures for the protection of aquatic organisms. The proposed regulations would require existing large power plants and manufacturing facilities that withdraw greater than 25 percent of water from adjacent water bodies for cooling purposes, and have a design intake flow of greater than 2 million gallons per day, to limit the number of aquatic organisms that are killed when they are pinned against the facility’s intake structure or that are drawn into the facility’s cooling system. The Section 316(b) rule was published in the Federal Register on August 15, 2014, with an effective date of October 14, 2014. As it stands, the Section 316(b) standards will be implemented through NPDES permits issued to the covered facilities with compliance timing dependent on individual NPDES renewal schedules. We are in the process of assessing the compliance costs and there remains the possibility they could be material. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case. Steam Electric Power Generating Effluent Guidelines. In April 2013, the EPA announced proposed revisions to the federal effluent guidelines for steam electric power generating stations under the Clean Water Act. Instead of proposing a single rule, the EPA proposed eight “options,” of which four are “preferred”. The proposed revisions would set limits on the level of toxic materials in wastewater discharged from seven waste streams: flue gas desulfurization wastewater, fly ash transport water, bottom ash transport water, combustion residual leachate, non-chemical metal cleaning wastes, coal gasification wastewater, and wastewater from flue gas mercury control systems. As part of this proposed rulemaking, the EPA is considering imposing rules to address “legacy” wastewater currently residing in ponds as well as rules to impose stringent best management practices for discharges from active coal combustion residual surface impoundments. The EPA’s proposed rulemaking would base effluent limitations on what can be achieved by available technologies. The proposed rule was published in the Federal Register in June 2013, with public comments due in September 2013. The EPA has agreed to issue the final rule by September 30, 2015. Compliance with the final rule, as proposed, would be required no later than July 1, 2022. We are reviewing the proposed rule and evaluating its potential impacts on our operations. We are unable to predict the compliance costs we might incur related to these or other potential future water discharge regulations; however, the costs could be material, including costs associated with retrofits for bottom ash handling, pond dewatering, pond closure, and wastewater treatment and/or reuse. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case 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. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) Coal Ash Management Facilities. Minnesota Power generates coal ash at all five of its coal-fired electric generating facilities. Two facilities store ash in onsite impoundments (ash ponds) with engineered liners and containment dikes. Another facility stores dry ash in a landfill with an engineered liner and leachate collection system. Two facilities generate a combined wood and coal ash that is either land applied as an approved beneficial use or trucked to state permitted landfills. In June 2010, the EPA proposed regulations for coal combustion residuals generated by the electric utility sector. The proposal sought comments on three general regulatory schemes for coal ash under Subtitle D of Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) (non-hazardous) or Subtitle C of RCRA (hazardous). The EPA is expected to issue a final rule by December 19, 2014. We are unable to predict the compliance costs we might incur; however, the costs could be material. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through cost recovery riders or in a general rate case. Other Matters. BNI Coal. As of September 30, 2014, BNI Coal had surety bonds outstanding of $49.5 million related to the reclamation liability for closing costs associated with its mine and mine facilities. Although the coal supply agreements obligate the customers to provide for the closing costs, additional assurance is required by federal and state regulations. In addition to the surety bonds, BNI Coal has secured a letter of credit for an additional $0.6 million to provide for BNI Coal’s total reclamation liability, which is currently estimated at $49.3 million. BNI Coal does not believe it is likely that any of these outstanding surety bonds or the letter of credit will be drawn upon. ALLETE Clean Energy. In January 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired three wind energy facilities–Lake Benton, Storm Lake and Condon–from AES. All three wind energy facilities have PPAs in place for their entire output, which expire in various years between 2019 and 2032. (See Note 4. Acquisition.) ALLETE Properties. As of September 30, 2014, ALLETE Properties, through its subsidiaries, had surety bonds outstanding and letters of credit to governmental entities totaling $10.2 million primarily related to development and maintenance obligations for various projects. The estimated cost of the remaining development work is approximately $7.4 million. ALLETE Properties does not believe it is likely that any of these outstanding surety bonds or letters of credit 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 are 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, 2014, we owned 72 percent of the assessable land in the Town Center District (73 percent at December 31, 2013) and 93 percent of the assessable land in the Palm Coast Park District (93 percent at December 31, 2013). At these ownership levels, our annual assessments are approximately $1.4 million for Town Center and $2.1 million for Palm Coast Park. As we sell property, the obligation to pay special assessments will pass to the new landowners. In accordance with accounting guidance, these bonds are not reflected as debt on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Legal Proceedings. United Taconite Lawsuit. 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 alleged approximately $20 million in damages related to the fire. In response to a Motion for Summary Judgment by Minnesota Power, the Sixth Judicial District for the State of Minnesota dismissed all of plaintiffs’ claims in an August 2013 order. The District Court’s decision was affirmed by the Minnesota Court of Appeals on August 4, 2014. On October 14, 2014, the Minnesota Supreme Court denied further review. NOTE 15. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Other Matters (Continued) Notice of Potential Clean Air Act Citizen Lawsuit. In July 2013, the Sierra Club submitted to Minnesota Power a notice of intent to file a citizen suit under the Clean Air Act, which it supplemented in March 2014. This notice of intent alleged violations of opacity and other permit requirements at our Boswell, Laskin, and Taconite Harbor energy centers. Minnesota Power intends to vigorously defend any lawsuit that may be filed by the Sierra Club. We are unable to predict the outcome of this matter. Accordingly, an accrual related to any damages that may result from the notice of intent has not been recorded as of September 30, 2014, because a potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable. 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, and compliance with regulations, rate base and cost of service issues, among other things. We do not expect the outcome of these matters to have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. |
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| 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. |
| Subsequent Events [Policy Text Block] | The Company performed an evaluation of subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through the time of the financial statements issuance. |
| New Accounting Standards [Policy Text Block] | New Accounting Standards. Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. In July 2013, the FASB issued an accounting standard update on the financial statement presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. An unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. To the extent an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. This guidance was adopted in the first quarter of 2014, and did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. In April 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update modifying the criteria for determining which disposals should be presented as discontinued operations and modifying the related disclosure requirements. Additionally, the new guidance requires that a business which qualifies as held for sale upon acquisition should be reported as discontinued operations. The new guidance will be effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015, and will apply prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale. This guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. NOTE 1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) Revenue from Contracts with Customers. In May 2014, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires expanded disclosures relating to the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required regarding customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. This accounting guidance is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2017 using one of two prescribed retrospective methods. Early adoption is not permitted for public companies. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. |
| Land Inventory [Policy Text Block] | Land inventory is accounted for as held for use and is recorded at cost, unless the carrying value is determined not to be recoverable in accordance with the accounting standards for property, plant and equipment, in which case the land inventory is written down to fair value. Land values are reviewed for indicators of impairment on a quarterly basis and no impairments were recorded for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2014 (none for the year ended December 31, 2013). |
| 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. |
| Acquisition [Policy Text Block] | The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. In connection with finalizing purchase price accounting, the Company recorded minor adjustments to certain assets and liabilities in the second quarter of 2014, which are reflected in the table below. These adjustments had no impact on the results of operations. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method. |
| Derivatives [Policy Text Block] | Changes in the fair value of the Swap were recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Cash flows from the Swap are presented in the same category as the hedged item on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Amounts recorded in Other Comprehensive Income related to the Swap will be recorded in earnings when the hedged transaction occurs or when it is probable it will not occur. Gains or losses on the interest rate hedging transaction are reflected as a component of Interest Expense on the Consolidated Statement of Income. |
| Fair Value Measurement [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 10. Fair Value to the consolidated financial statements in our 2013 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, 2014, and December 31, 2013. 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 these assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. |
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [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 refunded or credited to customers in rates. No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return. The recovery, refund or credit to rates for these regulatory assets and liabilities will occur over the periods either specified by the applicable regulatory authority or over the corresponding period related to the asset or liability. |
| Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block] | We account for our investment in ATC under the equity method of accounting. |
| Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] | We compute basic earnings per share using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. The difference between basic and diluted earnings per share, if any, arises from outstanding stock options, non-vested restricted stock units, performance share awards granted under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan and common shares under the forward sale agreement |
| Environmental Costs [Policy Text Block] | 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. |
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Disclosure of accounting policy for completed business combinations (purchase method, acquisition method or combination of entities under common control). This accounting policy may include a general discussion of the purchase method or acquisition method of accounting (including for example, the treatment accorded contingent consideration, the identification of assets and liabilities, the purchase price allocation process, how the fair values of acquired assets and liabilities are determined) and the entity's specific application thereof. An entity that acquires another entity in a leveraged buyout transaction generally discloses the accounting policy followed by the acquiring entity in determining the basis used to value its interest in the acquired entity, and the rationale for that accounting policy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for its derivative instruments and hedging activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- 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
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- 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
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for the equity method of accounting for investments in common stock or other interests including unconsolidated subsidiaries, corporate joint ventures, noncontrolling interests in real estate ventures, limited partnerships, and limited liability companies. The accounting policy may include information such as: (1) initially recording an investment in the stock of an investee at cost; (2) adjusting the carrying amount of the investment to recognize the investor's share of the earnings or losses of the investee after the date of acquisition; and (3) adjustments to reflect the investor's share of changes in the investee's capital (dividends). This disclosure may also include a detailed description of the policy for determining the amount of equity method losses recognized after an investment has been reduced to zero as a result of previous losses, reasons for not using the equity method when the investor company owns 20 percent or more of the voting stock of the investee's company (including identification of the significant investee), reasons for using the equity method when the ownership percentage is less than 20 percent, and discussion of recognition of equity method losses when an investor's total investment in an investee includes, in addition to an investment in common stock, other investments such as preferred stock and loans to the investee. An entity also may describe how such investments are assessed for impairment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for fair value measurements of financial and non-financial assets, liabilities and instruments classified in shareholders' equity. Disclosures include, but are not limited to, how an entity that manages a group of financial assets and liabilities on the basis of its net exposure measures the fair value of those assets and liabilities. No definition available.
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- 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
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- 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
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy pertaining to new accounting pronouncements that may impact the entity's financial reporting. Includes, but is not limited to, quantification of the expected or actual impact. No definition available.
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for public utilities. Examples include a discussion about the scope criteria and appropriateness for and extent of the application of generally accepted accounting principles related to accounting for the effects of certain types of regulation (may include identification of specific business units). Other examples of the disclosures may include: descriptions of the form and economic effects of regulation (for example, but not limited to, recording of regulatory assets and liabilities to the rate setting process); statement about periodic assessments of periodic assessments of generally accepted accounting principles related to accounting for the effects of certain types of regulation; information regarding amortization of and return on regulatory assets and liabilities, including the remaining amounts and recovery or settlement periods; accounting for changes to recovery estimates; AFUDC, plant abandonment's and plant disallowances. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for real estate held for development or sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for reporting subsequent events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Inventories [Table Text Block] |
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| Prepayments and Other Current Assets [Table Text Block] |
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| Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities [Table Text Block] |
NOTE 1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
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| Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information [Table Text Block] | Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information.
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- Details
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of supplemental cash flow information for the periods presented. No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise, goods, commodities, or supplies held for future sale or to be used in manufacturing, servicing or production process. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of other assets and other liabilities not separately disclosed on the balance sheet. No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the carrying amounts of other current assets. No definition available.
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Business Segments (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Business Segments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Segments [Table Text Block] |
NOTE 2. BUSINESS SEGMENTS (Continued)
NOTE 2. BUSINESS SEGMENTS (Continued)
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- Details
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the profit or loss and total assets for each reportable segment. An entity discloses certain information on each reportable segment if the amounts (a) are included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) are otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or loss. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Investments (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Investments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Investments and ALLETE Properties [Table Text Block] |
NOTE 3. INVESTMENTS (Continued)
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| Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] |
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| Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
A table of investments, shown as a text block. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of available-for-sale securities from cost basis to fair value. No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities and the gross realized gains and gross realized losses that have been included in earnings as a result of those sales. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Acquisition (Table)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Acquisition [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] |
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- Details
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of a material business combination completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. This table does not include leveraged buyouts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Fair Value (Tables)
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| Fair Value [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Table Text Block] |
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| Financial Instruments [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments, including financial assets and financial liabilities, and the measurements of those instruments, assets, and liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Regulatory Matters (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Regulatory Matters [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for detailed information about regulatory assets and liabilities, including current and noncurrent assets created when regulatory agencies permit the deferral of costs to the balance sheet that would otherwise be required to appear on the company's income statement and would be charged against current expenses or revenues, as well as current and noncurrent liabilities created when regulatory agencies permit. No definition available.
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Investment in ATC (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Investment in ATC [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ALLETE's Investment in ATC [Table Text Block] |
NOTE 8. INVESTMENT IN ATC (Continued) ATC’s summarized financial data for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, is as follows:
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Tabular disclosure of equity method investments including, but not limited to, name of each investee or group of investments, percentage ownership, difference between recorded amount of an investment and the value of the underlying equity in the net assets, and summarized financial information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| First Mortgage Bonds Issuance [Table Text Block] | During the first nine months of 2014, we issued $375.0 million of ALLETE first mortgage bonds (Bonds) in the private placement market as shown below:
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Tabular disclosure of long-debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. These are debt arrangements that originally required repayment more than twelve months after issuance or greater than the normal operating cycle of the entity, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Other Income (Expense) (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Other Income (Expense) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] |
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Tabular disclosure of the components of non-operating income or non-operating expense that may include amounts earned from dividends, interest on securities, gains (losses) on securities sold, equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, net gain (loss) on sales of business, interest expense and other miscellaneous income or expense items. No definition available.
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Income Tax Expense (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Income Tax Expense [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Tax Expense [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the components of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations for each year presented including, but not limited to: current tax expense (benefit), deferred tax expense (benefit), investment tax credits, government grants, the benefits of operating loss carryforwards, tax expense that results from allocating certain tax benefits either directly to contributed capital or to reduce goodwill or other noncurrent intangible assets of an acquired entity, adjustments of a deferred tax liability or asset for enacted changes in tax laws or rates or a change in the tax status of the entity, and adjustments of the beginning-of-the-year balances of a valuation allowance because of a change in circumstances that causes a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset in future years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reclassificiations out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Reclassifications Out of Accumualted Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) by Component [Table Text Block] | Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, for the quarters ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
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| Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] | Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the quarters ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
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Tabular disclosure of information about items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). No definition available.
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Earnings Per Share and Common Stock (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Earnings Per Share and Common Stock [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] |
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Tabular disclosure of an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share calculations, including a reconciliation of numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per-share computations for income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Tables)
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Sep. 30, 2014
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| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Table Text Block] |
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the components of net benefit costs for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans including service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) recognized due to settlements or curtailments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The fair value adjustment for the price of power per MW at market rates compared to those at contract rate at the time of acquisition through the end of the contract term present valued to acquisition date. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The fair value adjustment for the price of power per MW at market rates compared to those at contract rate at the time of acquisition through the end of the contract term present valued to acquisition date. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of asset retirement obligations incurred during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Future cash outflow to pay for purchases of fixed assets that have occurred. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise, goods, commodities, or supplies relating to a source of usable power held for future sale or future use in manufacturing or production process. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount after valuation and LIFO reserves of inventory expected to be sold, or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of other miscellaneous assets expected to be realized or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount of current liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer) not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Includes 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. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. For a classified balance sheet represents the current portion only (the noncurrent portion has a separate concept); there is a separate and distinct element for unclassified presentations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Cash and equivalents whose use in whole or in part is restricted for the long-term, generally by contractual agreements or regulatory requirements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Value of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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Business Segments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
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Sep. 30, 2014
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Sep. 30, 2013
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Dec. 31, 2013
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| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||
| Operating Revenue | $ 288.9 | $ 251.0 | $ 846.1 | $ 750.4 | |
| Fuel and Purchased Power Expense | 88.9 | 80.5 | 268.7 | 245.7 | |
| Operating and Maintenance Expense | 105.7 | 102.7 | 340.6 | 311.2 | |
| Depreciation Expense | 33.5 | 29.4 | 99.5 | 86.3 | |
| Operating Income (Loss) | 60.8 | 38.4 | 137.3 | 107.2 | |
| Interest Expense | (13.2) | (12.7) | (39.5) | (37.8) | |
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 5.3 | 4.9 | 15.6 | 15.1 | |
| Other Income | 2.1 | 3.3 | 6.0 | 7.5 | |
| Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 55.0 | 33.9 | 119.4 | 92.0 | |
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | 13.4 | 8.7 | 27.1 | 20.3 | |
| Net Income (Loss) | 41.6 | 25.2 | 92.3 | 71.7 | |
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | 0 | 0.4 | 0 | |
| Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | 41.6 | 25.2 | 91.9 | 71.7 | |
| Total Assets | 4,067.9 | 3,463.9 | 4,067.9 | 3,463.9 | 3,476.8 |
| Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 3,121.5 | 2,456.1 | 3,121.5 | 2,456.1 | 2,576.5 |
| Accumulated Depreciation | 1,316.6 | 1,225.3 | 1,316.6 | 1,225.3 | |
| Capital Additions | 467.6 | 186.4 | |||
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Regulated Operations [Member]
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| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||
| Operating Revenue | 255.8 | 226.4 | 749.6 | 683.6 | |
| Fuel and Purchased Power Expense | 88.9 | 80.5 | 268.7 | 245.7 | |
| Operating and Maintenance Expense | 79.4 | 78.6 | 258.6 | 243.6 | |
| Depreciation Expense | 28.5 | 27.9 | 86.9 | 81.8 | |
| Operating Income (Loss) | 59.0 | 39.4 | 135.4 | 112.5 | |
| Interest Expense | (11.8) | (10.4) | (34.7) | (31.5) | |
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 5.3 | 4.9 | 15.6 | 15.1 | |
| Other Income | 2.1 | 1.2 | 5.9 | 3.4 | |
| Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 54.6 | 35.1 | 122.2 | 99.5 | |
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | 13.4 | 10.5 | 29.6 | 26.5 | |
| Net Income (Loss) | 41.2 | 24.6 | 92.6 | 73.0 | |
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | 41.2 | 24.6 | 92.6 | 73.0 | |
| Total Assets | 3,519.9 | 3,086.3 | 3,519.9 | 3,086.3 | |
| Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 2,888.5 | 2,384.1 | 2,888.5 | 2,384.1 | |
| Accumulated Depreciation | 1,244.7 | 1,165.8 | 1,244.7 | 1,165.8 | |
| Capital Additions | 452.9 | 177.6 | |||
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Investments and Other [Member]
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|||||
| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||
| Land in Minnesota (in acres) | 5,000 | 5,000 | |||
| Operating Revenue | 33.1 | 24.6 | 96.5 | 66.8 | |
| Fuel and Purchased Power Expense | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Operating and Maintenance Expense | 26.3 | 24.1 | 82.0 | 67.6 | |
| Depreciation Expense | 5.0 | 1.5 | 12.6 | 4.5 | |
| Operating Income (Loss) | 1.8 | (1.0) | 1.9 | (5.3) | |
| Interest Expense | (1.4) | (2.3) | (4.8) | (6.3) | |
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Other Income | 0 | 2.1 | 0.1 | 4.1 | |
| Income (Loss) Before Non-Controlling Interest and Income Taxes | 0.4 | (1.2) | (2.8) | (7.5) | |
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | 0 | (1.8) | (2.5) | (6.2) | |
| Net Income (Loss) | 0.4 | 0.6 | (0.3) | (1.3) | |
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 | 0 | 0.4 | 0 | |
| Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ALLETE | 0.4 | 0.6 | (0.7) | (1.3) | |
| Total Assets | 548.0 | 377.6 | 548.0 | 377.6 | |
| Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 233.0 | 72.0 | 233.0 | 72.0 | |
| Accumulated Depreciation | 71.9 | 59.5 | 71.9 | 59.5 | |
| Capital Additions | $ 14.7 | $ 8.8 | |||
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization for physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Area of land held. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate depreciation, depletion and amortization expense in the current period for the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets directly related to goods produced and sold during the reporting period. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Cost of electricity purchased as well as fuel used to generate electricity used in operations and sold during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of the cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations except for the portion of these expenses which can be clearly related to production and included in cost of sales or services. Includes selling, general and administrative expense. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of acquisition of long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of revenue recognized from goods sold, services rendered, insurance premiums, or other activities that constitute an earning process. Includes, but is not limited to, investment and interest income before deduction of interest expense when recognized as a component of revenue, and sales and trading gain (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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Investments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2014
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Dec. 31, 2013
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| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| ALLETE Properties | $ 89.4 | $ 89.4 | $ 89.9 | |||||||
| Available-for-sale Securities | 19.0 | [1] | 19.0 | [1] | 17.7 | [1] | ||||
| Cash Equivalents | 3.7 | [2] | 3.7 | [2] | 34.2 | [2] | ||||
| Other | 4.3 | 4.3 | 4.5 | |||||||
| Total Other Investments | 116.4 | 116.4 | 146.3 | |||||||
| Available-for-sale Corporate Debt Securities, Maturities, One Year or Less | 0.2 | 0.2 | ||||||||
| Available-for-sale Corporate Debt Securities, Maturities, More than One Year to Less than Three Years | 2.1 | 2.1 | ||||||||
| Available-for-sale Corporate Debt Securities, Maturities, Three Years to Less than Five Years | 1.3 | 1.3 | ||||||||
| Available-for-sale Corporate Debt Securities, Maturities, Five Years or More | 7.1 | 7.1 | ||||||||
| ALLETE Properties [Rollforward] | ||||||||||
| Land Inventory Beginning Balance | 85.4 | 86.5 | ||||||||
| Cost of Sales | (1.1) | (1.5) | ||||||||
| Other | 0.5 | 0.4 | ||||||||
| Land Inventory Ending Balance | 84.8 | 84.8 | 85.4 | |||||||
| Long-Term Finance Receivables (net of allowances of $0.6 and $0.6) | 1.4 | 1.4 | 1.4 | |||||||
| Other | 3.2 | 3.2 | 3.1 | |||||||
| Total Real Estate Assets | 89.4 | 89.4 | 89.9 | |||||||
| Impairment of Real Estate | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
| Long-Term Finance Receivable, Allowance | $ 0.6 | $ 0.6 | $ 0.6 | |||||||
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of other additions including deeds to collateralized property and capitalized improvements to real estate investments for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of available-for-sale debt securities at fair value maturing in after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year (maturing in five years or more). No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of available-for-sale debt securities at fair value maturing after the first fiscal year through the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year (maturing in more than one year to less than three years). No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount of available-for-sale debt securities at fair value maturing after the third fiscal year through the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year (maturing in three years to less than five years). No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet Investments line item's cash and cash equivalents, valued at fair value by the entity. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
A valuation allowance relating to a written agreement to receive money (at a specified future date(s) more than one year from the reporting date, consisting of principal as well as any accrued interest) for the portion that is expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Fair value of available-for-sale debt securities maturing in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The charge against earnings in the period to reduce the carrying amount of real property to fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The total amount of investments that are intended to be held for an extended period of time (longer than one operating cycle). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
An amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date more than one year from the balance sheet date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the debt. The debt also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among a myriad of other features and characteristics. This amount does not include amounts related to receivables held-for-sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| 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
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of real estate investments sold for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount, before accumulated depreciation, of real estate investments for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of real estate investment property, net of accumulated depreciation, which may include the following: (1) land available-for-sale; (2) land available-for-development; (3) investments in building and building improvements; (4) tenant allowances; (5) developments in-process; (6) rental properties; and (7) other real estate investments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of real estate owned for income production and capital accretion potential, not otherwise specified in the existing taxonomy. Such real estate excludes that which is occupied or used in the business, for entertainment purposes, or held in inventory for specific purposes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Investments - Available-for-sale Securities (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
||||||
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Cost | $ 19.1 | $ 19.1 | $ 18.3 | |||||||
| Gross Unrealized Gain | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0 | |||||||
| Gross Unrealized Loss | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.6 | |||||||
| Fair Value | 19.0 | [1] | 19.0 | [1] | 17.7 | [1] | ||||
| Net Proceeds | 0.6 | 6.9 | 3.3 | 15.0 | ||||||
| Gross Realized Gain | 0 | 1.4 | 0.2 | 2.2 | ||||||
| Gross Realized Loss | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||||||
|
||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before tax of unrealized gain in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) on investments in debt and equity securities classified as available-for-sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before tax of unrealized loss in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) on investments in debt and equity securities classified as available-for-sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the cost of debt and equity securities, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading, net of adjustments including accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments recognized, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the gross profit realized on the sale of debt or equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of proceeds received for the sale of securities, categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities, during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the gross loss realized on the sale of debt or equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
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
|
|
Investments - Parentheticals (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
|---|---|---|
| Investments Parentheticals [Abstract] | ||
| Long-Term Finance Receivable, Allowance | $ 0.6 | $ 0.6 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A valuation allowance relating to a written agreement to receive money (at a specified future date(s) more than one year from the reporting date, consisting of principal as well as any accrued interest) for the portion that is expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Acquisition (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Feb. 11, 2014
|
Jan. 30, 2014
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Armenia Mountain [Member]
MW
|
Jan. 30, 2014
Armenia Mountain [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Lake Benton [Member]
MW
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Storm Lake [Member]
MW
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Condon [Member]
MW
|
||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Jan. 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Name of Acquired Entity | Armenia Mountain | Lake Benton | Storm Lake | Condon | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net | $ 26.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 101 | 104 | 77 | 50 | |||||||||||||||||
| Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 3.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Current Assets | 14.3 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 156.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Assets | 7.5 | [1] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total Assets Acquired | 182.5 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Current Liabilities | 15.2 | [2] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term Debt Due Within One Year | 2.2 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term Debt | 21.1 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreements | 99.4 | 90.5 | [3] | 0 | [3] | ||||||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Liabilities | 10.6 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-Controlling Interest | 7.1 | [4] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total Liabilities and Non-Controlling Interest Assumed | 155.6 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net Identifiable Assets Acquired | 26.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase option | 0.3 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill | 2.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreements | 12.4 | 12.3 | [3] | 0 | [3] | ||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs | 1.4 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests | $ 6.0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The fair value adjustment for the price of power per MW at market rates compared to those at contract rate at the time of acquisition through the end of the contract term present valued to acquisition date. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The fair value adjustment for the price of power per MW at market rates compared to those at contract rate at the time of acquisition through the end of the contract term present valued to acquisition date. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Purchase option to acquire entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date when the acquirer obtains control of the acquiree, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Name of the acquired entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the fair value of the noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents acquisition-related costs incurred to effect a business combination which costs have been expensed during the period. Such costs include finder's fees; advisory, legal, accounting, valuation, and other professional or consulting fees; general administrative costs, including the costs of maintaining an internal acquisitions department; and may include costs of registering and issuing debt and equity securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of assets acquired at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions, acquired at the acquisition date. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of asset related to consideration paid in advance for costs that provide economic benefits in future periods, and amount of other assets that are expected to be realized or consumed within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, acquired at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt due within one year or within the normal operating cycle, if longer, assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of other liabilities due within one year or within the normal operating cycle, if longer, assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount recognized as of the acquisition date for the identifiable assets acquired in excess of (less than) the aggregate liabilities assumed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt due after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of other liabilities due after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of other assets expected to be realized or consumed after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, acquired at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of property, plant, and equipment recognized as of the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after accumulated impairment loss of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of business during the period. The cash portion only of the acquisition price. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Derivatives - Hedged Item (Details) (Term Loan [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
|
|---|---|
|
Term Loan [Member]
|
|
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
| Term Loan Principal Amount | $ 75.0 |
| Percentage of Debt Hedged by Interest Rate Derivatives | 5.00% |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Face (par) amount of debt instrument at time of issuance. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of an entity's outstanding debt that is designated as a hedged item in cash flow, fair value, or net investment hedge. No definition available.
|
|
Derivatives - Derivative (Details) (Interest Rate Swap [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
|
|
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
|
||
| Derivative [Line Items] | ||
| Derivative, Variable Interest Rate | one-month LIBOR | |
| Interest Rate Swap Fixed Interest Rate | 0.75% | |
| Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Effectiveness Assessment and Measurement | Cash flows from the Swap are expected to be highly effective. If it is determined that the Swap ceases to be effective, we will prospectively discontinue hedge accounting. When applicable, we use the shortcut method to assess hedge effectiveness. If the shortcut method is not applicable, we assess effectiveness using the “change-in-variable-cash-flows” method. Our assessment of hedge effectiveness resulted in no ineffectiveness recorded for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2014. | |
| Interest Rate Swap Liability | $ 0.4 | $ 0.6 |
| Interest Rate Swap Liability, Other Non-Current Liabilities | 0.3 | |
| Interest Rate Swap Liability, Other Current Liabilities | $ 0.3 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value as of the balance sheet date of all interest rate derivative liabilities designated as cash flow hedging instruments included in current liabilities. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value as of the balance sheet date of all interest rate derivative liabilities designated as cash flow hedging intstruments included in noncurrent liabilities. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
When the derivative or group of derivatives presented is a swap, the type of interest rate (fixed, variable, stepped, etc.) paid on the swap. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fixed interest rate related to the interest rate derivative. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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 |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
||||||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Equivalents | $ 3.7 | [1] | $ 3.7 | [1] | $ 34.2 | [1] | ||||||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 8.3 | [2] | 8.3 | [2] | 7.9 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 10.7 | [2] | 10.7 | [2] | 9.8 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 3.7 | [2] | 3.7 | [2] | 34.2 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 22.7 | 22.7 | 51.9 | |||||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 16.2 | [3] | 16.2 | [3] | 16.8 | [3] | ||||||||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.4 | [4] | 0.4 | [4] | 0.6 | [5] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 16.6 | 16.6 | 17.4 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 6.1 | 6.1 | 34.5 | |||||||||||||||
| Fair Value Hierarchy Transfers, All Levels | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 8.3 | [2] | 8.3 | [2] | 7.9 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 3.7 | [2] | 3.7 | [2] | 34.2 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 12.0 | 12.0 | 42.1 | |||||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 0 | [3] | 0 | [3] | 0 | [3] | ||||||||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0 | [4] | 0 | [4] | 0 | [5] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 12.0 | 12.0 | 42.1 | |||||||||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 10.7 | [2] | 10.7 | [2] | 9.8 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 10.7 | 10.7 | 9.8 | |||||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 16.2 | [3] | 16.2 | [3] | 16.8 | [3] | ||||||||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.4 | [4] | 0.4 | [4] | 0.6 | [5] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 16.6 | 16.6 | 17.4 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | (5.9) | (5.9) | (7.6) | |||||||||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 0 | [3] | 0 | [3] | 0 | [3] | ||||||||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0 | [4] | 0 | [4] | 0 | [5] | ||||||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||||
| Fair Value Activity in Level 3 | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion, Deferred Compensation, valued at fair value by the entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair Value Activity in Level 3 No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of transfers in and out of levels 1, 2, and 3 of the fair value hierarchy during the period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet Investments line item's cash and cash equivalents, valued at fair value by the entity. 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 on a recurring basis 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
Total of debt securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading which are intended be sold or mature more than one year from the balance sheet date or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading which are intended be sold more than one year from the balance sheet date or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value of asset after deduction of liability. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value as of the balance sheet date of all interest rate derivative liabilities designated as cash flow hedging instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregation of the liabilities reported on the balance sheet measured at fair value on a recurring basis by the entity. No definition available.
|
|
Fair Value - Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
|---|---|---|
| Financial Instruments [Abstract] | ||
| Long-Term Debt, Including Current Portion - Carrying Amount | $ 1,374.5 | $ 1,110.2 |
| Long-Term Debt, Including Current Portion - Fair Value | $ 1,465.0 | $ 1,131.7 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount of long-term debt, net of unamortized discount or premium, including current and noncurrent amounts. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. 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 - Utility Rates (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
Hydro Project [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Bison Wind Energy Center [Member]
MW
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Bison 4 [Member]
MW
|
Jun. 01, 2011
MPUC 2010 Minnesota Rate Case [Member]
Electric Rates [Member]
Retail Customers [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2014
FERC-Approved Wholesale Rates [Member]
Electric Rates [Member]
Municipal Customers [Member]
Years
Customers
|
Dec. 31, 2012
PSCW 2012 Wisconsin Rate Case [Member]
Retail Customers [Member]
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Regulation [Line Items] | ||||||
| Approved Rate of Return on Common Equity | 10.38% | 10.90% | ||||
| Approved Percentage of Capital Structure Related to Equity | 54.29% | |||||
| Number of Customers | 16 | |||||
| Length of Notice Required to Terminate (in Years) | 3 | |||||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 292 | 205 | ||||
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | $ 90 | $ 345 | ||||
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 80 | $ 288 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of capital structure related to equity approved by the regulatory commission through a rate case proceeding. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Rate of return on common equity approved by the regulatory commission through a rate case proceeding. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated amount of certain capital expenditures related to environmental compliance, regulatory matters, or other commitments and/or contingencies. This estimate includes expenditures expected in future periods and expenditures made through the end of the current period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The length of notice required to terminate a contract (in years). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of Customers No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Regulatory Matters - Boswell Mercury Emissions Reduction Plan (Details) (Boswell Unit 4 [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
|
|---|---|
|
Boswell Unit 4 [Member]
|
|
| Schedule of Utility Generating Facilities [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | $ 250 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 120 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated amount of certain capital expenditures related to environmental compliance, regulatory matters, or other commitments and/or contingencies. This estimate includes expenditures expected in future periods and expenditures made through the end of the current period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Regulatory Matters - Great Northern Transmission Line (GNTL) (Details) (Great Northern Transmission Line [Member])
|
Sep. 30, 2014
kV
Miles
|
|---|---|
|
Great Northern Transmission Line [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 220 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 500 |
| 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.
|
|
Regulatory Matters - Conservation Improvement Program (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
|
| Conservation Improvement Program [Abstract] | ||
| CIP Energy-Savings Goal | 1.50% | |
| Conservation Improvement Program Financial Incentive | $ 8.7 | $ 7.1 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Minnesota's Next Generation Act of 2007 introduced an energy-savings goal of 1.5 percent of net gross annual retail electric energy sales beginning with the 2010 program year. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Conservation Improvement Program Financial Incentive No definition available.
|
|
Regulatory Matters - Regulatory Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
|||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Total Current Regulatory Assets | $ 18.5 | [1] | $ 23.0 | [1] | ||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 277.1 | 263.8 | ||||||||
| Total Regulatory Assets | 295.6 | 286.8 | ||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 103.1 | 81.0 | ||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities Currently Earning a Return | No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return. | |||||||||
|
Income Taxes [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 17.6 | 17.0 | ||||||||
|
Plant Removal Obligations [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 22.7 | 19.7 | ||||||||
|
Wholesale and Retail Contra AFUDC [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 37.6 | 19.7 | ||||||||
|
Deferred Fuel [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Total Current Regulatory Assets | 18.5 | [1] | 23.0 | [1] | ||||||
|
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 158.6 | [2] | 164.1 | [2] | ||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 15.1 | [2] | 16.3 | [2] | ||||||
|
Income Taxes [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 37.9 | 35.3 | ||||||||
|
Asset Retirement Obligations [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 17.2 | 16.0 | ||||||||
|
Cost Recovery Riders [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 54.5 | [3] | 39.6 | [3] | ||||||
|
PPACA Income Tax Deferral [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 5.0 | 5.0 | ||||||||
|
Other
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 3.9 | 3.8 | ||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | $ 10.1 | $ 8.3 | ||||||||
|
||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount for the individual regulatory asset as itemized in a table of regulatory assets as of the end of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs of regulated entities that are expected to be recovered through revenue sources within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Such costs are capitalized if they meet both of the following criteria: a. It is probable that future revenue in an amount at least equal to the capitalized cost will result from inclusion of that cost in allowable costs for rate-making purposes. b. Based on available evidence, the future revenue will be provided to permit recovery of the previously incurred cost rather than to provide for expected levels of similar future costs. If the revenue will be provided through an automatic rate-adjustment clause, this criterion requires that the regulator's intent clearly be to permit recovery of the previously incurred cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs of regulated entities that are not expected to be recovered through revenue sources within one year or the normal operating cycle if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount for the individual regulatory noncurrent liability as itemized in a table of regulatory noncurrent liabilities as of the end of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Identifies what net regulatory assets are earning a return through rate billings. 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 | 3 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Sensitivity Analysis [Member]
|
Oct. 30, 2014
Subsequent Event [Member]
|
|
| Investment in ATC [Abstract] | ||||||
| Ownership Percentage | 8.00% | 8.00% | ||||
| Approved Return on Common Equity | 12.20% | 12.20% | ||||
| Equity Method Investment, Expected Additional Investment | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | ||||||
| Cash Investments | 3.1 | 0.8 | ||||
| ALLETE's Investment in ATC [Roll Forward] | ||||||
| Equity Investment Balance as of December 31, 2013 | 114.6 | |||||
| Cash Investments | 3.1 | 0.8 | ||||
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 5.3 | 4.9 | 15.6 | 15.1 | ||
| Distributed ATC Earnings | (12.6) | |||||
| Equity Investment Balance as of September 30, 2014 | 120.7 | 120.7 | ||||
| ATC Summarized Financial Data [Abstract] | ||||||
| Revenue | 163.6 | 160.5 | 487.0 | 464.3 | ||
| Operating Expense | 76.6 | 77.6 | 229.6 | 217.2 | ||
| Other Expense | 21.4 | 20.2 | 65.1 | 62.6 | ||
| Net Income | 65.6 | 62.7 | 192.3 | 184.5 | ||
| ALLETE's Equity in Net Income | 5.3 | 4.9 | 15.6 | 15.1 | ||
| Equity Method Investment, Proposed Return on Common Equity | 9.15% | 9.15% | ||||
| Sensitivity Analysis [Line Items] | ||||||
| Basis Point Reduction on Approved Rate of Return on Common Equity | 50 | |||||
| Effect on Future Earnings, Amount | $ 0.5 | |||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A sensitivity analysis using basis point reduction. 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
Additional investments expected to be made during the current fiscal year but after the filing date, not already separately disclosed as part of current period/year-to-date investments or as a subsequent event. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The proposed return on common equity, which would be dedicated to the utility plant in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of other expense reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The quantified amount of the future effect on earnings. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the cost of sales reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
|
| 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 purchase of or advances to an equity method investments, which are investments in joint ventures and entities in which the entity has an equity ownership interest normally of 20 to 50 percent and exercises significant influence. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Jan. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
Mar. 04, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 3.69% Due March 2024 [Member]
|
Mar. 04, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 4.95% Due March 2044 [Member]
|
Jun. 26, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 3.40% Due July 2022 [Member]
|
Jun. 26, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 3.40% Due July 2022 [Member]
|
Jun. 26, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 5.05% Due July 2044 [Member]
|
Jun. 26, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 5.05% Due July 2044 [Member]
|
Sep. 16, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 3.02% Due September 2021 [Member]
|
Sep. 16, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 3.02% Due September 2021 [Member]
|
Sep. 16, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 3.74% Due September 2029 [Member]
|
Sep. 16, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 3.74% Due September 2029 [Member]
|
Sep. 16, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 4.39% Due September 2044 [Member]
|
Sep. 16, 2014
ALLETE Bonds 4.39% Due September 2044 [Member]
|
|
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||
| Short-Term Debt Outstanding | $ 88.0 | $ 27.2 | |||||||||||||
| Long-Term Debt Outstanding | 1,289.2 | 1,083.0 | |||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Long-term Debt Including Long-term Debt Due Within One Year | 23.3 | ||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Long-term Debt Due Within One Year | 2.2 | ||||||||||||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of First Mortgage Bonds | $ 375.0 | $ 60.0 | $ 40.0 | $ 75.0 | $ 40.0 | $ 60.0 | $ 50.0 | $ 50.0 | |||||||
| Interest Rate | 3.69% | 4.95% | 3.40% | 5.05% | 3.02% | 3.74% | 4.39% | ||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Long-term Debt, Including current portion No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of long-term debt due within one year or within the normal operating cycle, if longer, assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of short-term debt and current maturity of long-term debt and capital lease obligations due within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount of long-term debt, net of unamortized discount or premium, excluding amounts to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer (current maturities). Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from amounts received from a long-term debt instrument secured by a first mortgage deed of trust, containing a pledge of real property. The lender has the highest claim on the property in case of default. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt - Financial Covenants (Details)
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
|---|---|
| Financial Covenants [Abstract] | |
| Required Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.65 |
| Actual Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.47 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Actual indebtedness to total capital ratio required to be maintained by most restrictive financial covenant. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Indebtedness to total capital ratio required to be maintained by most restrictive financial covenant. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Other Income (Expense) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
|
| Other Income (Expense) [Abstract] | ||||
| AFUDC - Equity | $ 2.1 | $ 1.2 | $ 5.9 | $ 3.4 |
| Gain on Sale of Available-for-sale Securities | 0 | 1.4 | 0.2 | 2.2 |
| Investments and Other Expense | (0.1) | |||
| Investments and Other Income | 0 | 0.7 | 1.9 | |
| Total Other Income | $ 2.1 | $ 3.3 | $ 6.0 | $ 7.5 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the gross profit realized on the sale of debt or equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents a sum total of expenses not separately reflected on the income statement for the period. 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
|
| 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
|
|
Income Tax Expense (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
|||||||||||
| Current Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||
| Federal | $ 0 | [1],[2] | $ 0 | [1],[2] | $ 0 | [1],[2] | $ 0 | [1],[2] | |||||||
| State | 1.8 | [1],[3] | (0.1) | [1],[3] | 1.9 | [1],[3] | (0.1) | [1],[3] | |||||||
| Total Current Tax Expense (Benefit) | 1.8 | (0.1) | 1.9 | (0.1) | |||||||||||
| Deferred Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||
| Federal | 11.2 | 7.3 | 20.4 | 15.5 | |||||||||||
| State | 0.7 | 1.7 | 5.4 | 5.5 | |||||||||||
| Investment Tax Credit Amortization | (0.3) | (0.2) | (0.6) | (0.6) | |||||||||||
| Total Deferred Tax Expense | 11.6 | 8.8 | 25.2 | 20.4 | |||||||||||
| Total Income Tax Expense | 13.4 | 8.7 | 27.1 | 20.3 | |||||||||||
| Effective Income Tax Rate | 22.70% | 22.10% | |||||||||||||
| Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate | 41.00% | ||||||||||||||
| Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||
| Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits | 2.0 | 2.0 | 1.2 | ||||||||||||
| Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Favorably Impact Effective Tax Rate | $ 0.3 | $ 0.3 | |||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of current federal tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to taxable income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of current state and local tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of deferred federal income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of other deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. For example, but not limited to, acquisition-date income tax benefits or expenses recognized from changes in the acquirer's valuation allowance for its previously existing deferred tax assets resulting from a business combination and adjustments to beginning-of-year balance of a valuation allowance because of a change in circumstance causing a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset in future periods. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of deferred state and local tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of domestic federal statutory tax rate applicable to pretax income (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of unrecognized tax benefits pertaining to uncertain tax positions taken in tax returns. 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
|
|
Reclassifications out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Jun. 30, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
Jun. 30, 2013
|
Dec. 31, 2012
|
|||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | $ (16.1) | $ (21.3) | $ (16.1) | $ (21.3) | $ (16.3) | $ (17.1) | $ (21.0) | $ (22.0) | ||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Before Reclassifications | (0.1) | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.9 | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0.3 | (0.5) | 0.8 | (0.2) | ||||||||||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0.2 | (0.3) | 1.0 | 0.7 | ||||||||||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Before Tax | (0.5) | (0.6) | (1.5) | (1.9) | ||||||||||||||
|
Other Income [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Unrealized Gains on Available-for-sale Securities, Before Tax | 0 | [1] | 1.4 | [1] | 0.2 | [1] | 2.2 | [1] | ||||||||||
|
Income Tax Expense [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Unrealized Gains on Available-for-sale Securities, Tax | 0 | [2] | (0.6) | [2] | (0.1) | [2] | (0.9) | [2] | ||||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Tax | 0.2 | [2] | 0.3 | [2] | 0.6 | [2] | 0.8 | [2] | ||||||||||
|
Operating Expenses - Operating and Maintenance [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Prior Service Costs, Before Tax | 0.1 | [3] | 0.1 | [3] | 0.3 | [3] | 0.2 | [3] | ||||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Actuarial Gains and Losses, Before Tax | (0.6) | [3] | (0.7) | [3] | (1.8) | [3] | (2.1) | [3] | ||||||||||
|
Unrealized Gains and Losses on Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0 | (0.5) | 0 | (0.5) | 0.1 | (0.1) | 0 | (0.1) | ||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Before Reclassifications | (0.1) | 0.3 | 0.2 | 0.9 | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0 | (0.8) | (0.1) | (1.3) | ||||||||||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | (0.1) | (0.5) | 0.1 | (0.4) | ||||||||||||||
|
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | (15.9) | (20.4) | (15.9) | (20.4) | (16.1) | (16.7) | (20.7) | (21.5) | ||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Before Reclassifications | (0.1) | 0 | (0.1) | 0 | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.9 | 1.1 | ||||||||||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0.2 | 0.3 | 0.8 | 1.1 | ||||||||||||||
|
Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedge [Member]
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | (0.2) | (0.4) | (0.2) | (0.4) | (0.3) | (0.3) | (0.3) | (0.4) | ||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Before Reclassifications | 0.1 | (0.1) | 0.1 | 0 | ||||||||||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | $ 0.1 | $ (0.1) | $ 0.1 | $ 0 | ||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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
Amount before tax of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss for prior service cost (credit) related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax, before reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax and reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before tax of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive income for unrealized gain (loss) realized upon the sale of available-for-sale securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of tax expense (benefit) of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive income for unrealized gain (loss) realized upon the sale of available-for-sale securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before tax of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss related to net period benefit cost (credit) for pension and other postretirement defined benefit plans. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before tax of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for actuarial gain (loss) related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of tax (expense) benefit of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss related to pension and other postretirement defined benefit plans. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after tax of reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss). No definition available.
|
|
Earnings Per Share and Common Stock (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 05, 2014
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Feb. 26, 2014
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Mar. 04, 2014
Options Held [Member]
|
|
| Forward Contract Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Forward Contract Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Indexed Shares | 2.8 | |||||||
| Common Stock Issued - Option Agreement (in shares) | 1.4 | 0.4 | ||||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock - Option Agreement | $ 65.0 | $ 20.2 | ||||||
| Forward Contract Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Forward Rate Per Share | $ 48.01 | |||||||
| Forward Contract Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Dilutive Securities (in shares) | 0 | |||||||
| Antidilutive Shares Excluded from Diluted EPS Computation | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||
| Earnings Per Share - Basic [Abstract] | ||||||||
| Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | 41.6 | 25.2 | 91.9 | 71.7 | ||||
| Average Common Shares | 42.9 | 39.8 | 42.1 | 39.4 | ||||
| Earnings Per Share | $ 0.97 | $ 0.63 | $ 2.18 | $ 1.82 | ||||
| Earnings Per Share - Diluted [Abstract] | ||||||||
| Net Income to Attributable ALLETE | 41.6 | 25.2 | 91.9 | 71.7 | ||||
| Average Common Shares | 42.9 | 39.9 | 42.3 | 39.5 | ||||
| Earnings Per Share | $ 0.97 | $ 0.63 | $ 2.17 | $ 1.81 | ||||
| Dilutive Securities (in shares) | 0 | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.1 | ||||
| Common Stock Issued - Pension Plan (in shares) | 0.4 | |||||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock - Pension Plan | $ 19.5 | $ 0 | ||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of equity forward arrangements using the treasury stock method. No definition available.
|
| 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total number of common shares of an entity that have been sold or granted to shareholders (includes common shares that were issued, repurchased and remain in the treasury). These shares represent capital invested by the firm's shareholders and owners, and may be all or only a portion of the number of shares authorized. Shares issued include shares outstanding and shares held in the treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| 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 per share price of the Company's stock at which the contract holder of the freestanding contract has the right to purchase or sell the Company's stock at a future date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of issuer's shares to which the forward contract is indexed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net income after adjustments for dividends on preferred stock (declared in the period) and/or cumulative preferred stock (accumulated for the period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net Income or Loss Available to Common Stockholders plus 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 cash inflow from the issuance of common stock, preferred stock, treasury stock, stock options, and other types of equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
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
|
|
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
|
|
Pension [Member]
|
||||
| Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Abstract] | ||||
| Service Cost | $ 2.0 | $ 2.4 | $ 6.2 | $ 7.4 |
| Interest Cost | 7.5 | 6.5 | 22.4 | 19.5 |
| Expected Return on Plan Assets | (9.6) | (8.8) | (28.7) | (26.4) |
| Amortization of Prior Service Costs (Credits) | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.2 |
| Amortization of Net Loss | 3.6 | 5.4 | 10.7 | 16.1 |
| Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) | 3.6 | 5.6 | 10.8 | 16.8 |
| Contributions | 19.5 | 0 | ||
| Estimated Future Contributions | 0 | |||
|
Other Postretirement [Member]
|
||||
| Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Abstract] | ||||
| Service Cost | 0.9 | 0.9 | 2.6 | 2.9 |
| Interest Cost | 1.8 | 1.7 | 5.5 | 5.1 |
| Expected Return on Plan Assets | (2.5) | (2.4) | (7.7) | (7.3) |
| Amortization of Prior Service Costs (Credits) | (0.7) | (0.6) | (1.9) | (1.9) |
| Amortization of Net Loss | 0.1 | 0.4 | 0.3 | 1.2 |
| Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) | (0.4) | 0 | (1.2) | 0 |
| Contributions | 0 | 10.8 | ||
| Estimated Future Contributions | $ 0 | |||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The 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
An amount calculated as a basis for determining the extent of delayed recognition of the effects of changes in the fair value of assets. The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and the market-related value of plan assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase in a defined benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligation or a defined benefit postretirement plan's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation due to the passage of time. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the period. Periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period. The portion of the expected postretirement benefit obligation attributed to employee service during the period. The service cost component is a portion of the benefit obligation and is unaffected by the funded status of the plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of employer's best estimate of contributions expected to be paid to the plan in the current remaining fiscal period. No definition available.
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Power Purchase Agreements (Details) (USD $)
|
9 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
Sep. 30, 2013
|
|
|
Square Butte PPA [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| PPA Counterparty Debt Outstanding | $ 404,300,000 | |
| Annual Debt Service | 44,000,000 | |
| Power Purchased Under Long-term Contracts | 51,800,000 | 51,300,000 |
| Interest Expense | 7,900,000 | 7,900,000 |
|
Square Butte PPA [Member] | Square Butte Coal-fired Unit [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 455 | |
| Output Entitlement | 50.00% | |
|
Minnkota PPA [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Output Being Purchased (MW) | 50 | |
|
Oliver Wind I PPA [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Output Being Purchased (MW) | 50 | |
| Term of Contract (Years) | 25 | |
| Fixed Capacity Charges | 0 | |
|
Oliver Wind II PPA [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Output Being Purchased (MW) | 48 | |
| Term of Contract (Years) | 25 | |
| Fixed Capacity Charges | $ 0 | |
|
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires May2020) [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Output Being Purchased (MW) | 50 | |
|
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires April 2022) [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Output Being Purchased (MWh) | 1,000,000 | |
|
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires 2035) [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Output Being Purchased (MW) | 250 | |
| Term of Contract (Years) | 15 | |
|
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires 2040) [Member]
|
||
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||
| Output Being Purchased (MW) | 133 | |
| Term of Contract (Years) | 20 | |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Long-Term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power, Fixed Capacity Carges 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
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
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
The allocable portion of interest included in charges under a long-term contract to purchase electric power. 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
Amount of operating expense for purchased power procured under arrangements extending beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, by regulated operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - North Dakota Wind Development (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
kV
Miles
|
|---|---|
|
DC Transmission Line from Square Butte [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 465 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 250 |
|
Bison Wind Energy Center [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 292 |
|
Bison 4 [Member]
|
|
| North Dakota Wind Development [Line Items] | |
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 205 |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | $ 345 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 288 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated amount of certain capital expenditures related to environmental compliance, regulatory matters, or other commitments and/or contingencies. This estimate includes expenditures expected in future periods and expenditures made through the end of the current period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a transmission line in kilovolts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Length of a transmission line in miles. No definition available.
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Hydro Operations (Details) (Hydro Project [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
|
|---|---|
|
Hydro Project [Member]
|
|
| Hydro Operations [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | $ 90 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 80 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated amount of certain capital expenditures related to environmental compliance, regulatory matters, or other commitments and/or contingencies. This estimate includes expenditures expected in future periods and expenditures made through the end of the current period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts (Details) (Coal and Transportation [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
|
|---|---|
|
Coal and Transportation [Member]
|
|
| Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts [Line Items] | |
| Minimum Annual Payment Obligation, Current Year | $ 9.6 |
| Minimum Annual Payment Obligation, Year Two | $ 4.4 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of the recorded unconditional purchase obligation maturing in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of the recorded unconditional purchase obligation maturing in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. 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, 2014
|
|---|---|
| Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Current Year | $ 12.1 |
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Year Two | 11.5 |
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Year Three | 9.5 |
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Year Four | 8.7 |
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Year Five | 7.4 |
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter | 29.2 |
|
BNI Coal Dragline Lease [Member]
|
|
| Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |
| Termination Fee | 3.0 |
| Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Current Year | $ 2.8 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A lump sum payment in conjunction with a lease termination. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Transmission (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Sep. 30, 2014
|
|---|---|
|
CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Number of CapX2020 Projects | 3 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 98 |
|
CapX2020 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | 100 |
|
CapX2020 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | 110 |
|
Great Northern Transmission Line [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Transmission Line Length (Miles) | 220 |
| Transmission Line Capacity (kV) | 500 |
|
Great Northern Transmission Line [Member] | Minimum [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | 560 |
|
Great Northern Transmission Line [Member] | Maximum [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | $ 710 |
|
Project in Progress [Member] | CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Number of CapX2020 Projects | 1 |
|
Completed Project [Member] | CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Number of CapX2020 Projects | 2 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated amount of certain capital expenditures related to environmental compliance, regulatory matters, or other commitments and/or contingencies. This estimate includes expenditures expected in future periods and expenditures made through the end of the current period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of projects. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a transmission line in kilovolts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Length of a transmission line in miles. No definition available.
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Environmental Matters (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
MW
|
Jun. 30, 2014
|
|
|
Boswell Unit 4 [Member]
|
||
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | ||
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | $ 250 | |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | 120 | |
| Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months | 103 | |
| Other Commitment, Due in Second Year | 75 | |
|
NOV Consent Decree [Member]
|
||
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | ||
| Environmental Remediation Expense | 4.2 | |
| Civil Penalty | 1.4 | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures, Including Past Expenditures | 600 | |
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 200 | |
|
NOV Consent Decree [Member] | Minimum [Member]
|
||
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | ||
| Estimated Capital Expenditures | 20 | |
|
NOV Consent Decree [Member] | Maximum [Member]
|
||
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | ||
| Estimated Capital Expenditures | $ 40 | |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capital cost spent to date for project. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Civil Penalty No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated amount of certain future capital expenditures related to environmental compliance, regulatory matters, or other committments and/or contingencies. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated amount of certain capital expenditures related to environmental compliance, regulatory matters, or other commitments and/or contingencies. This estimate includes expenditures expected in future periods and expenditures made through the end of the current period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The charge against earnings in the period for known or estimated future costs arising from requirements to perform environmental remediation activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Minimum amount of other commitment maturing in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year for commitments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Excludes commitments explicitly modeled in this taxonomy, including but not limited to, long-term and short-term purchase commitments, recorded and unrecorded purchase obligations, supply commitments, registration payment arrangements, leases, debt, product warranties, guarantees, environmental remediation obligations, and pensions. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Minimum amount of other commitment maturing in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year for commitments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Excludes commitments explicitly modeled in this taxonomy, including but not limited to, long-term and short-term purchase commitments, recorded and unrecorded purchase obligations, supply commitments, registration payment arrangements, leases, debt, product warranties, guarantees, environmental remediation obligations, and pensions. No definition available.
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Other Matters (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
Years
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
|
|
BNI Coal Reclamation Liability [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Surety Bond Amount | $ 49.5 | |
| Reclamation Letter of Credit | 0.6 | |
| Total Current Estimated Reclamation Liability | 49.3 | |
|
ALLETE Properties Development and Maintenance Obligations [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Surety Bond and Letters of Credit | 10.2 | |
| Development and Maintenance Obligations | 7.4 | |
|
Town Center Community Development District [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Bond Amount | 26.4 | |
| Bond Interest Rate | 6.00% | |
| Bond Term (Years) | 31 | |
| Ownership of Property Benefited | 72.00% | 73.00% |
| Annual Assessment | 1.4 | |
|
Palm Coast Park Community Development District [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Bond Amount | 31.8 | |
| Bond Interest Rate | 5.70% | |
| Bond Term (Years) | 31 | |
| Ownership of Property Benefited | 93.00% | 93.00% |
| Annual Assessment | $ 2.1 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of annual assessments based on ownership percentage of benefited property related to real estate development projects funded by municipal capital improvement revenue and special assessment bonds. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Interest rate of capital improvement revenue and special assessment bonds used to fund real estate development projects. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Term (in years) of capital improvement revenue and special assessment bonds used to fund real estate development projects. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Ownership percentage of property benefitied by a real estate development project funded by municipal capital improvement revenue and special assessment bonds. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of letters of credit that are available for the future payment of environmental commitments and/or contingencies. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of surety bonds that are available for future payment obligations related to environmental commitments and/or contingencies. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of surety bonds outstanding and letters of credit to government entities that are available for future payment obligations related to environmental commitments and contingencies. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Estimated costs remaining on performance and maintenance obligations. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of a reclamation and mine closing liability that is associated with a legal obligation for the closure and reclamation of a mine including the removal of buildings, equipment, machinery and other physical remnants of mining, closure of tailings impoundments, leach pads and other mine features, and contouring, covering and revegetation of waste rock piles and other disturbed areas. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of a type of municipal bond typically used to fund a development project. Also called special assessment limited liability bond, special district bond, special purpose bond, special tax bond and community development obligation. Interest owed to lenders is paid by taxes levied on the community benefiting from the particular bond-funded project. For example, if a bond of this sort was issued to pay for sidewalks to be repaved in a certain community, an additional tax would be levied on homeowners in the area benefiting from this project. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Legal Proceedings (Details) (Pending Litigation [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
9 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Sep. 30, 2014
|
|
|
Pending Litigation [Member]
|
|
| Legal Proceedings [Line Items] | |
| Damages Sought | $ 20 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The value (monetary amount) of the award the plaintiff seeks in the legal matter. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|