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Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)
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3 Months Ended | |
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Mar. 31, 2015
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Jun. 30, 2014
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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 | $ 2,175,249,161 | |
| Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 48,751,109 | |
| Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2015 | |
| Document Fiscal Period Focus | Q1 | |
| Document Type | 10-Q | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 31, 2015 |
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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
Carrying amount of finite-lived intangible assets, indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. Goodwill is an asset representing the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Intangible assets are assets, not including financial assets, lacking physical substance. No definition available.
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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 |
Mar. 31, 2015
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Dec. 31, 2014
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| Accounts Receivable [Abstract] | ||
| Accounts Receivable, Allowance | $ 1.1 | $ 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 | 48.8 | 45.9 |
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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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- Details
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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
The aggregate costs related to goods produced and sold and services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. This excludes costs incurred during the reporting period related to financial services rendered and other revenue generating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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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
Cost incurred for transmission operations and maintenance by total kilowatt-hours paid to sources. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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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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- Definition
The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets. 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
Taxes, excluding payroll, income and excise taxes, if not included elsewhere, that could include production, real and personal property, and other selling and distribution-related taxes. No definition available.
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- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
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Mar. 31, 2015
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Mar. 31, 2014
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| Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||
| Net Income | $ 40.1 | $ 33.8 |
| Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||
| Unrealized Gain on Securities, Net of Income Taxes of $0.1 and $- | 0.1 | 0 |
| Unrealized Gain on Derivatives, Net of Income Taxes of $- and $0.1 | 0.1 | 0 |
| Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Income Taxes of $0.2 and $0.2 | 0.3 | 0.3 |
| Total Other Comprehensive Income | 0.5 | 0.3 |
| Total Comprehensive Income | 40.6 | 34.1 |
| Less: Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiaries | 0.2 | 0.3 |
| Comprehensive Income Attributable to ALLETE | $ 40.4 | $ 33.8 |
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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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- Details
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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
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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. 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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- Definition
Amount after tax and reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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
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| 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 | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
|
| Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Parentheticals [Abstract] | ||
| Unrealized Gain on Securities, Tax | $ 0.1 | $ 0 |
| Unrealized Gain on Derivatives, Tax | 0 | 0.1 |
| Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
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| 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
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| 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 aggregate expense charged against earnings to allocate the cost of intangible and other assets in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. No definition available.
|
| 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
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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of plan compensation cost recognized during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the undistributed income (or loss) of equity method investments, net of dividends or other distributions received from unconsolidated subsidiaries, certain corporate joint ventures, and certain noncontrolled corporations; such investments are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. This element excludes distributions that constitute a return of investment, which are classified as investing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amount due from customers for the credit sale of goods and services; includes accounts receivable and other types of receivables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
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| 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 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 | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow from construction costs to date on capital projects that have not been completed and assets being constructed that are not ready to be placed into service. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| 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
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow during the period for redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interests. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow paid to third parties in connection with debt origination, which will be amortized over the remaining maturity period of the associated long-term debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- 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 | ||||||||||
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- 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
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale; includes cash outflows to pay for construction of self-constructed assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of pension and other (such as medical, dental and life insurance) postretirement benefit costs recognized during the period for (1) defined benefit plans (periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss) on assets, prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments) and for (2) defined contribution plans (to the extent that a plan's defined contributions to an individual's account are to be made for periods in which that individual renders services, the net cost for a period is the contribution called for in that period; if a plan calls for contributions for periods after an individual retires or terminates, the estimated cost is accrued during the employee's service period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash inflow from a debt initially having maturity due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- 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 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
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| 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
|
3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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 Reclassifications. As a result of recent acquisitions, certain financial statement captions have been added and as a result we have reclassified certain prior-period amounts in our Consolidated Balance Sheet, Consolidated Statement of Income, and Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows to conform to the presentation for the current period. Consolidated Balance Sheet. In conformity with the current presentation of Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Net on the Consolidated Balance Sheet, we have reclassified our December 31, 2014 Consolidated Balance Sheet to include $1.6 million and $3.2 million of goodwill and intangible assets previously disclosed in Property, Plant and Equipment - Net and Other Non-Current Assets, respectively, under Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Net. There was no impact to Total Assets as a result of the reclassification. Consolidated Statement of Income. In conformity with the current presentation of Cost of Sales on the Consolidated Statement of Income, we have reclassified $23.5 million from Operating and Maintenance Expenses to Cost of Sales for the three months ended March 31, 2014. Cost of Sales includes purchased gas at SWL&P, expenses incurred to deliver coal at BNI Coal, and the cost of land and other sales at ALLETE Properties. There was no impact to Operating Income, Net Income, or Net Income Attributable to ALLETE as a result of the reclassification. Cost of Sales also includes costs associated with the manufacture and delivery of inventories at U.S. Water Services, our integrated water management company which was acquired February 10, 2015. (See Note 4. Acquisitions.) In addition to the presentation of Cost of Sales, we have created new captions on the Consolidated Statement of Income to provide additional detail for Transmission Services and Taxes Other than Income Taxes. Transmission Services are MISO-related costs incurred for the transmission of electricity. In conformity with the current presentation, $10.8 million of Transmission Services and $11.2 million of Taxes Other than Income Taxes have been reclassified from Operating and Maintenance Expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2014. Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. In conformity with the current presentation of the Amortization of Power Purchase Agreements on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, we have reclassified $2.3 million from Changes in Regulatory and Other Non-Current Liabilities to Amortization of Power Purchase Agreements for the three months ended March 31, 2014. There was no impact on cash from (for) Operating Activities, Investing Activities, and Financing Activities as a result of the reclassifications. NOTE 1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventories in our Regulated Operations segment are recorded on an average cost basis. Amounts removed from inventories in our Investments and Other segment are recorded on an average cost, first-in, first-out or specific identification basis.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets. Goodwill. Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price (consideration transferred) over the estimated fair value of net assets of acquired businesses. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized. The Company assesses whether there has been an impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment testing for goodwill is done at the reporting unit level. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s net assets exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The estimated fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis. Intangible Assets. Intangible assets include customer relationships, patents, non-compete agreements and trademarks and trade names. Intangible assets with definite lives consist of customer relationships, patents and non-compete agreements, which are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis with estimated useful lives ranging from less than 1 year to 23 years. We review other definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trademarks and trade names, which are tested for impairment annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment is calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying amount over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis. NOTE 1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) Other Non-Current Assets. Restricted Cash. Included in Other Non-Current Assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet was restricted cash of $5.3 million as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, related to ALLETE Clean Energy’s wind energy facilities debt service and other requirements.
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. NOTE 1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) New Accounting Standards. 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 is effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015, and applies 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. 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 was to have been 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. On April 1, 2015, the FASB voted to propose a deferral of the effective date of the standard by one year which would make the guidance effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2018. The FASB is expected to issue updated accounting guidance regarding the deferred effective date, subject to a 30-day comment period, in the second quarter of 2015. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. In April 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance addressing the presentation requirements for debt issuance costs. Under the revised guidance, all costs incurred to issue debt are to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. The revised guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We are evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard. |
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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
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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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 our Energy Infrastructure and Related Services businesses: ALLETE Clean Energy, our business aimed at acquiring or developing capital projects that create energy solutions by way of wind, solar, biomass, hydro, natural gas, shale resources, clean coal technology and other emerging energy innovations, U.S. Water Services, our integrated water management company which was acquired on February 10, 2015, and BNI Coal, our coal mining operations in North Dakota. Investments and Other also includes ALLETE Properties, our Florida real estate investment, and 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. Future acquisitions or growth may impact segment reporting.
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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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Investments [Text Block] | INVESTMENTS Investments. At March 31, 2015, 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 three months ended March 31, 2015 (none for the year ended December 31, 2014). Long-Term Finance Receivables. As of March 31, 2015, long-term finance receivables were $1.2 million net of an allowance ($1.2 million net of an allowance as of December 31, 2014). 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 March 31, 2015, the allowance for doubtful accounts amounted to $0.6 million ($0.6 million as of December 31, 2014).
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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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Acquisitions
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Acquisition [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Acquisitions [Text Block] | ACQUISITIONS The acquisitions below are consistent with ALLETE’s stated strategy of investing in energy infrastructure and related services businesses to complement its core regulated utility, balance exposure to business cycles and changing demand, and provide potential long-term earnings growth. The pro forma impact of the following acquisitions was not significant either individually or in the aggregate, to the results of the Company for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and year ended December 31, 2014. 2015 Acquisition Activity. U.S. Water Services. On February 10, 2015, ALLETE acquired U.S. Water Services. Total consideration for the transaction was $202.3 million, which included payment of $166.6 million for an 87 percent ownership interest in the company, and an estimated fair value of earnings-based contingent consideration of $35.7 million to be paid in 2019. The contingent consideration is presented within Other Non-Current Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Consolidated Statement of Income reflects 100 percent of the results of operations of U.S. Water Services since the acquisition date as the Company has effectively acquired 100 percent of U.S. Water Services. U.S. Water Services, an integrated industrial water management company headquartered in St. Michael, Minnesota, provides integrated water management for industry by combining chemical, equipment, engineering and service for customized solutions to reduce water and energy usage and improve efficiency. U.S. Water Services helps customers achieve efficient and sustainable use of their energy systems, is a leading provider to the biofuels industry, and has a growing presence in the power generation and midstream oil and gas industries. NOTE 4. ACQUISITIONS (Continued) 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. The allocation of the purchase price is subject to judgment and the preliminary estimated fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed may be adjusted when the valuation analysis is completed in subsequent periods. Preliminary estimates subject to adjustment in subsequent periods relate primarily to customer relationships, developed technologies, trademarks and trade names, and current and deferred income taxes; subsequent adjustments could impact the amount of goodwill recorded. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method.
ALLETE incurred a $3.0 million after-tax expense of acquisition-related costs during the three months ended March 31, 2015, which were expensed when incurred and were recorded in Operating and Maintenance on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Chanarambie/Viking. On April 15, 2015, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired wind energy facilities in southern Minnesota (Chanarambie/Viking) from EDF Energy Holdings Limited for $47.5 million, subject to a working capital adjustment. We are currently in the process of accounting for the acquisition, therefore, certain disclosures, including the allocation of the purchase price, will be included in the Form 10-Q for the period ending June 30, 2015. The facilities have 97.5 MW of generating capability and are located near our Lake Benton facility. The wind facilities began commercial operations in 2003 and have PPAs in place for the entire output, which expire in 2018 (12 MW) and 2023 (85.5 MW). Armenia Mountain. On April 30, 2015, ALLETE Clean Energy signed purchase agreements to acquire 100 percent of a wind energy facility located near Troy, Pennsylvania (Armenia Mountain) from The AES Corporation (AES) and a non-controlling interest from a minority shareholder for $108.0 million, plus the assumption of existing debt. The agreement with AES is subject to a purchase price adjustment. The acquisition is expected to close in July 2015. The facility has 100.5 MW of generating capability, began commercial operations in 2009, and has PPAs in place for the entire output, which expire in 2025. NOTE 4. ACQUISITIONS (Continued) 2014 Acquisition Activity. ACE Wind Acquisition. In January 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired wind energy facilities located in Lake Benton, Minnesota (Lake Benton), Storm Lake, Iowa (Storm Lake II) and Condon, Oregon (Condon) from AES for $26.9 million. Lake Benton, Storm Lake II and Condon have 104 MW, 77 MW and 50 MW of generating capability, respectively. Lake Benton and Storm Lake II 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. ALLETE Clean Energy acquired a controlling interest in the limited liability company (LLC) which owns Lake Benton and Storm Lake II, 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. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method.
In February 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy purchased the non-controlling interest related to Lake Benton and Storm Lake II 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. Montana-Dakota Utilities. In November 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired a business for $27.0 million to develop a wind facility near Hettinger, North Dakota. ALLETE Clean Energy is developing and constructing a 107 MW wind facility consisting of 43 turbines, which will be sold to Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., a division of MDU Resources Group, Inc., for approximately $200 million. Construction is expected to be completed in December 2015, and the sale is subject to regulatory approval from the NDPSC. If regulatory approval is not obtained for the sale of the wind facility, ALLETE Clean Energy would then own and operate the facility and sell the entire output to Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. under a long-term PPA. NOTE 4. ACQUISITIONS (Continued) 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 liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the replacement cost method and determined that the assets acquired amounted to cash of approximately $3.6 million and construction in process of approximately $23.4 million. There were no liabilities assumed and no recognition of goodwill. As of March 31, 2015, $48.4 million of construction costs incurred (including the construction costs acquired) and $54.3 million of construction deposits received from Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. have been classified on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as Prepayments and Other Current Assets and Other Current Liabilities, respectively ($48.2 million and $54.3 million of costs incurred and deposits received as of December 31, 2014, respectively). ALLETE expects revenue to be recognized under the percentage of completion method of accounting as progress toward completion of the project is achieved. Until it becomes probable that regulatory approval from the NDPSC for the sale of the facility will be obtained, we expect no impact from the project on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Costs to construct the wind facility and deposits received from Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. are reported as Construction Costs for Development Project in investing activities and Construction Deposits Received for Development Project in financing activities on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, respectively. On April 15, 2015, we received an additional construction deposit from Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. of approximately $50 million. Storm Lake I Acquisition. In December 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired a wind energy facility in Storm Lake, Iowa (Storm Lake I) from NRG Energy, Inc. for $15.1 million. Storm Lake I has 108 MW of generating capability and is located adjacent to Storm Lake II. The wind generation facility began commercial operations in 1999 and has a PPA in place for its entire output which expires in 2018. 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 during the first quarter of 2015 to certain assets and liabilities, which are reflected in the table below. The result of these adjustments had no impact on the results of operations for the period ended March 31, 2015. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method.
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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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Goodwill and Intangible Assets
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Text Block] | GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS The following table summarizes changes to goodwill by business segment for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
Balances of intangible assets, net, excluding goodwill as of March 31, 2015 are as follows:
Customer relationships have a useful life of approximately 23 years and developed technology and other have useful lives ranging from less than 1 year to approximately 14 years (weighted average of approximately 9 years). The weighted average useful life of all definite-lived intangible assets as of March 31, 2015 is approximately 21 years. Amortization expense of intangible assets for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $0.6 million. The estimated amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets for the remainder of 2015 is $3.6 million. Estimated annual amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets is $4.3 million in 2016, $4.2 million in 2017, $4.1 million in 2018, $4.0 million in 2019, $3.9 million in 2020 and $43.6 million thereafter. |
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The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Derivatives
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Derivatives [Abstract] | |
| 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 March 31, 2015. (See Note 10. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt.) The Swap has an effective date of August 26, 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 three months ended March 31, 2015. As of March 31, 2015, the fair value of the Swap was a $0.2 million liability ($0.3 million liability as of December 31, 2014) which 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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Mar. 31, 2015
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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 2014 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 March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014. Each asset and liability is classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, which may affect the valuation of 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 7. FAIR VALUE (Continued)
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the U.S. Water Services Contingent Consideration measured at fair value using Level 3 measurements as of March 31, 2015. The acquisition contingent consideration is recorded at the acquisition date at the estimated fair value of the acquisition contingent consideration. The acquisition date fair value is measured based on the consideration expected to be transferred, discounted to present value. The discount rate is determined at the time of measurement in accordance with accepted valuation methods. The fair value of the acquisition contingent consideration is remeasured to arrive at estimated fair value each reporting period with the change in fair value recognized as income or expense in our Consolidated Statement of Income. Changes to the fair value of the acquisition contingent consideration can result from changes in discount rates, or in the timing and amount of earnings estimates. Using different valuation assumptions including earnings projections or discount rates result in different fair value measurements and expense (or income) in the current or future periods. The acquisition contingent consideration was measured at $35.8 million as of March 31, 2015. NOTE 7. FAIR VALUE (Continued)
The Level 3 activity above is the result of the February 10, 2015 acquisition of U.S. Water Services; there was no activity in Level 3 during the year ended December 31, 2014. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and the year ended December 31, 2014, 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).
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis. Non-financial assets such as equity method investments, goodwill, intangible assets, and property, plant and equipment are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment and recorded at fair value only when an impairment is recognized. Equity Method Investment. 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. (See Note 9. Investment in ATC.) The aggregate carrying amount of the investment was $122.3 million as of March 31, 2015 and $121.1 million as of December 31, 2014. The Company assesses our investment in ATC for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of our investment in ATC may not be recoverable. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and the year ended December 31, 2014, there were no indicators of impairment. Goodwill. The Company assesses the impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Substantially all of the Company’s goodwill is a result of the U.S. Water Services acquisition on February 10, 2015. The aggregate carrying amount of goodwill was $130.0 million and $2.9 million as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. Impairment testing for goodwill is done at the reporting unit level. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s net assets exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The test for impairment requires us to make several estimates about fair value, most of which are based on projected future cash flows. The Company calculated the excess of each reporting unit's fair value over its carrying amount, including goodwill, utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis. As of March 31, 2015, there have been no events or changes in circumstance which would indicate impairment of our goodwill. NOTE 7. FAIR VALUE (Continued) Intangible Assets. The Company assesses indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually in the third quarter. The Company also assesses indefinite-lived and definite-lived intangible assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset may not be recoverable. Substantially all of the Company’s intangible assets are a result of the U.S. Water Services acquisition on February 10, 2015. The aggregate carrying amount of intangible assets was $84.3 million as of March 31, 2015 ($1.9 million as of December 31, 2014). When events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset may not be recoverable, the Company calculates the excess of an intangible asset's carrying value over its undiscounted future cash flows. If the carrying value is not recoverable, an impairment loss is recorded based on the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value. The inputs used in the fair value analysis fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to the use of significant unobservable inputs to determine fair value. As of March 31, 2015, there have been no events or changes in circumstance which would indicate impairment of our intangible assets. Property, Plant and Equipment. The Company assesses the impairment of property, plant, and equipment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of property, plant, and equipment assets may not be recoverable. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and the year ended December 31, 2014, there were no indicators of impairment. We believe that long-standing ratemaking practices approved by applicable state and federal regulatory commissions allows for the recovery of the remaining book value of retired plant assets. We will retire Taconite Harbor Unit 3 and convert Laskin to natural gas in the second quarter of 2015, which actions were included in our 2013 Integrated Resource Plan approved by the MPUC in a November 2013 order. Accordingly, we do not expect to record any impairment charge as a result of the retirement of Taconite Harbor Unit 3 or conversion of Laskin. |
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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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Mar. 31, 2015
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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 has 16 non-affiliated municipal customers in Minnesota. SWL&P is a Wisconsin utility and a customer of Minnesota Power. On April 21, 2015, Minnesota Power amended its formula-based wholesale electric sales contract with the Nashwauk Public Utilities Commission, extending the term through June 30, 2028. 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 contracts 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 June 30, 2025. 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 an order dated February 23, 2015, 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. NOTE 8. REGULATORY MATTERS (Continued) Renewable Cost Recovery Rider. Minnesota Power has an approved cost recovery rider in place for investments and expenditures related to the 497 MW Bison Wind Energy Center in North Dakota. Customer billing rates for our Bison 1, 2, & 3 wind facilities were approved by the MPUC in a December 2013 order. In April 2014 and November 2014, we filed renewable resources factor filings which include updated costs associated with the Bison Wind Energy Center. Upon approval of the filings, we will be authorized to include updated billing rates on customer bills. On February 13, 2015, Minnesota Power supplemented its November 2014 renewable resources factor filing to include costs associated with the restoration and repair of Thomson. In an order dated March 5, 2015, the MPUC approved our petition seeking cost recovery for investments and expenditures related to the restoration and repair of Thomson through a renewable resources rider. 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 which were completed in the fourth quarter of 2014, 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. We are required to submit our 2015 Integrated Resource Plan with the MPUC no later than September 1, 2015. 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. 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 $260 million of which $162 million was spent through March 31, 2015. In a November 2013 order, the MPUC approved the Boswell Unit 4 mercury emissions reduction plan and cost recovery, establishing an environmental improvement rider. Customer billing rates for the environmental improvement rider were approved by the MPUC in a July 2014 order. In November 2014, we filed an updated environmental improvement factor filing which included updated costs associated with Boswell Unit 4. Upon approval of this filing, we will be authorized to include updated billing rates on customer bills. 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 a January 2014 order, 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 March 16, 2015, the administrative law judge recommended the MPUC grant a Certificate of Need for construction of the GNTL. In April 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 a July 2014 order, the MPUC determined the route permit application to be complete. Manitoba Hydro must also obtain regulatory and governmental approvals related to a new transmission line in Canada. Construction of Manitoba Hydro’s hydroelectric generation facility commenced in the third quarter of 2014. Upon receipt of all applicable permits and approvals, construction of the GNTL is anticipated to begin in 2016 and to be completed in 2020. Regulatory Assets and Liabilities. Our regulated utility operations are subject to accounting guidance for the effect of certain types of regulation. Regulatory assets represent incurred costs that have been deferred as they are probable for recovery in customer rates. Regulatory liabilities represent obligations to make refunds to customers and amounts collected in rates for which the related costs have not yet been incurred. The Company assesses quarterly whether regulatory assets and liabilities meet the criteria for probability of future recovery or deferral. 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 8. 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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Mar. 31, 2015
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| 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 March 31, 2015, our equity investment in ATC was $122.3 million ($121.1 million at December 31, 2014). In the first three months of 2015, we invested $0.4 million in ATC, and on April 29, 2015, we invested an additional $0.4 million. We expect to make additional investments of approximately $1.1 million in 2015.
NOTE 9. INVESTMENT IN ATC (Continued) ATC’s summarized financial data for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, is as follows:
Our equity earnings in ATC for the three months ended March 31, 2015 were $3.9 million and reflected a $1.4 million reduction related to complaints filed with the FERC by several customer groups located within the MISO service area; of the $1.4 million reduction, $1.1 million was attributable to ATC’s change in estimate of a refund liability recorded in a previous period. The groups requested, 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. On February 12, 2015, an additional complaint was filed with the FERC seeking an order to further reduce the base return on equity to 8.67 percent. 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 ($0.9 million pre-tax). |
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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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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Text Block] | SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT Short-Term Debt. As of March 31, 2015, total short-term debt outstanding was $122.6 million ($104.4 million as of December 31, 2014) and consisted of long-term debt due within one year and notes payable. Long-Term Debt. No long-term debt was issued in the first three months of 2015. As of March 31, 2015, total long-term debt outstanding was $1,253.8 million ($1,272.8 million as of December 31, 2014). 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 March 31, 2015, our ratio was approximately 0.44 to 1.00. Failure to meet this covenant would give rise to an event of default if not cured after notice from the lender, in which event ALLETE may need to pursue alternative sources of funding. Some of ALLETE’s debt arrangements contain “cross-default” provisions that would result in an event of default if there is a failure under other financing arrangements to meet payment terms or to observe other covenants that would result in an acceleration of payments due. As of March 31, 2015, 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) [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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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Income Tax Expense [Text Block] | INCOME TAX EXPENSE
For the three months ended March 31, 2015, the effective tax rate was 13.4 percent (20.7 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2014). The decrease in the effective tax rate from March 31, 2014, was primarily due to increased production tax credits. The effective 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. Uncertain Tax Positions. As of March 31, 2015, we had gross unrecognized tax benefits of $2.0 million ($2.0 million as of December 31, 2014). 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 2010. |
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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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Mar. 31, 2015
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| 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 three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, were as follows:
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, 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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Mar. 31, 2015
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| 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 three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, no options to purchase shares of common stock were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share.
Forward Sale Agreement and Issuance of Common Stock. In February 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. Pursuant to the Agreement, the forward counterparty (or its affiliate) borrowed 2.8 million shares of ALLETE common stock from third parties and sold them to the underwriters. The forward sale price was $48.01 per share, subject to adjustment as provided in the Agreement. In September 2014, ALLETE physically settled a portion of its obligations under the Agreement by delivering approximately 1.4 million shares of common stock in exchange for cash proceeds of $65.0 million and on February 4, 2015, ALLETE physically settled the remaining portion of its obligation under the Agreement by delivering approximately 1.4 million shares of common stock in exchange for cash proceeds of $65.4 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 in March 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. Contributions to Pension. No contributions were made to the pension plan for the three months ended March 31, 2015. For the three months ended March 31, 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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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Text Block] | PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Employer Contributions. For the three months ended March 31, 2015, no contributions were made to our defined benefit pension plan ($19.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014); we do not expect to make any contributions to our defined benefit pension plan in 2015. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 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 2015. |
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The entire disclosure for pension and other postretirement benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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 Agreement, 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 March 31, 2015, Square Butte had total debt outstanding of $390.9 million. Annual debt service for Square Butte is expected to be approximately $45 million in each of the next five years, 2015 through 2019, 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. Minnesota Power’s cost of power purchased from Square Butte during the three months ended March 31, 2015, was $19.2 million ($16.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014). 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 $2.5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2015 ($2.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014). 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, which commenced in June 2014. Under the power sales agreement, Minnesota Power is selling 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. In 2015, Minnesota Power’s portion of output sold to Minnkota Power is approximately 28 percent (23 percent commencing on 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 from 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. 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 that expire in 2031 and 2032, respectively. Each agreement 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. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Power Purchase Agreements (Continued) In May 2011, Minnesota Power and Manitoba Hydro signed an additional long-term PPA. The PPA provides for Minnesota Power to purchase 250 MW of capacity and energy from Manitoba Hydro 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. Construction of Manitoba Hydro’s hydroelectric generation facility commenced in the third quarter of 2014. The capacity price is adjusted annually until 2020 by the change in a governmental inflationary index. The energy price is based on a formula that includes an annual fixed price component adjusted for the 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 Minnesota Power to purchase up to 133 MW of energy from Manitoba Hydro for 20 years beginning in 2020. The pricing under this PPA is based on forward market prices. The agreement was approved by the MPUC in an order dated January 30, 2015, and is subject to the construction of the GNTL. (See Great Northern Transmission Line.) Great River Energy PPAs. In August 2014 and January 2015, Minnesota Power and Great River Energy signed long-term PPAs that provide for Minnesota Power to purchase 50 MW of capacity and energy under the first PPA and 50 MW of capacity only under the second PPA. The PPAs commence in June 2016 and expire in May 2020. Both contracts have fixed capacity pricing. The energy price in the first PPA is based on a formula that includes an annual fixed price component adjusted for changes in a natural gas index as well as market prices. 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. Minnesota Power is currently in discussions regarding the extension of our coal supply contracts beyond 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 2018. Our minimum annual payment obligation under these supply and transportation agreements is $42.3 million for the remainder of 2015, $27.0 million in 2016, $27.6 million in 2017, and $28.4 million in 2018. The delivered costs of fuel for Minnesota Power’s generation are recoverable from Minnesota Power’s utility customers through the fuel adjustment clause. Leasing Agreements. BNI Coal is obligated to make lease payments for a dragline totaling $2.8 million annually for the lease term, which expires in 2027. BNI Coal has the option at the end of the lease term to renew the lease at fair market value, 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 2022. The aggregate amount of minimum lease payments for all operating leases is $13.4 million in 2015, $11.4 million in 2016, $10.6 million in 2017, $9.5 million in 2018, $8.3 million in 2019 and $27.3 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 an order dated February 23, 2015, 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. 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. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Transmission (Continued) On April 2, 2015, the CapX2020 transmission line project from Fargo, North Dakota to St. Cloud, Minnesota was completed and placed into service. Minnesota Power previously participated in two additional CapX2020 projects which were completed and placed into service in 2011 and 2012. Minnesota Power invested approximately $100 million to complete the three transmission line projects. 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 a January 2014 order, 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 March 16, 2015, the administrative law judge recommended the MPUC grant a Certificate of Need for construction of the GNTL. In April 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 a July 2014 order, the MPUC determined the route permit application to be complete. Manitoba Hydro must also obtain regulatory and governmental approvals related to a new transmission line in Canada. Construction of Manitoba Hydro’s hydroelectric generation facility commenced in the third quarter of 2014. 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 becomes 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. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) 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 between the years of 1981 to 2001. Minnesota Power received an additional NOV in April 2011 alleging that two projects undertaken at Rapids Energy Center in 2004 and 2005 should have been reviewed under the NSR requirements and that the Rapids Energy Center’s Title V permit was violated. Minnesota Power 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) in September 2014. The Consent Decree provided for, among other requirements, more stringent emissions limits at all affected units, the option of refueling, retrofits or retirements at certain small coal units, and the addition of 200 MW of wind energy. Provisions of the Consent Decree require 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 and $40 million. We are evaluating our options with regard to Boswell Units 1 and 2 to comply with the Consent Decree and 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 April 2014, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an opinion reversing an August 2012 U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit decision that had vacated the CSAPR. The EPA filed a motion with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in June 2014, to have the stay of CSAPR lifted and the CSAPR compliance deadlines tolled by three years. In October 2014, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit granted the EPA's motion, allowing the first compliance period, Phase I, to begin on January 1, 2015, with Phase II beginning in 2017. CSAPR requires five states in the eastern half of the United States, including Minnesota, to significantly improve air quality by reducing power plant emissions that contribute to ozone or fine particulate pollution in other states. These states are required to make summertime NOx reductions under the CSAPR ozone season control program. CSAPR does not require installation of controls; rather it requires that facilities have sufficient allowances to cover their emissions on an annual basis. These allowances will be allocated to facilities from each state’s annual budget and can be bought and sold. In December 2014, the EPA distributed the CSAPR allowances to CSAPR-subject units for the Phase I years (2015 and 2016). Phase II allowances (2017-2020) have not been distributed. Based on our initial accounting of the NOx and SO2 Phase I allowances already issued, and our review of the CSAPR Phase II allowances not yet issued, we currently expect projected generation levels and emission rates will be in compliance in both Phase I and Phase II. 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 $260 million through 2016, of which $162 million was spent through March 31, 2015. Boswell Unit 3 is also subject to the MATS rule; however, the emission reduction investments completed in 2009 at our Boswell Unit 3 generating unit substantially meet the requirements of the MATS rule. Our “EnergyForward” plan, which was approved as part of our 2013 Integrated Resource Plan by the MPUC in a November 2013 order, also includes the conversion of Laskin Units 1 and 2 to natural gas in 2015 to position the Company for MATS compliance. In January 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. Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act/Rule. In order to comply with the 2006 Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act, which was incorporated into rules promulgated by the MPCA in September 2014, 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. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) EPA National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Major Sources: Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Boilers and Process Heaters. A final rule issued by the EPA for Industrial Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology (Industrial Boiler MACT) 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. 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. 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. In November 2014, the EPA proposed a 65 to 70 parts per billion (ppb) NAAQS for ground level ozone. The EPA is proposing to update both the primary ozone standard and the secondary standard. Both standards would be 8-hour standards set within a range of 65 to 70 ppb. The EPA is also seeking comment on levels for the primary standard as low as 60 ppb. The EPA has announced it will accept comments on all aspects of the proposal, including retaining the existing standard. A final rule is expected to be issued in the fourth quarter of 2015. 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 and annual average fine particulate matter (PM2.5) standards; the 24-hour coarse particulate matter standard has remained unchanged. 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 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 standard, which is generally demonstrated by modeling at the facility level. 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 issued designations of 2012 fine particulate attainment status in December 2014. Minnesota retained 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. In April 2012, the MPCA notified Minnesota Power that modeling had been suspended as a result of the EPA’s announcement that the SIP submittals would not require modeling demonstrations for states, such as Minnesota, where ambient monitors indicate compliance with the new standard. 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 EPA guidance to states for preparing the SIP submittal. The MPCA has indicated it will communicate with affected sources once it has more information on how the state will meet the EPA’s SIP requirements. Guidance was expected in 2013 but has been delayed. 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. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) In July 2014, the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (Band) announced that it had petitioned the EPA to redesignate its reservation air shed 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 impose more stringent Clean Air Act protections within the boundaries of the Fond du Lac reservation, including the reservation air shed, near Cloquet, Minnesota. Five other reservations across the U.S. have applied for and received Class I status. A public hearing was held by the Band in October 2014, and the public comment period on the petition expired in November 2014. After the Band prepares responses to the comments, the Band will make a formal submittal request to the EPA. There is no deadline for the approval, denial, or modification of the request by the EPA. The Company has requested additional clarification from the Band and the MPCA on the final regulatory structure that may arise from a Class I redesignation. We are unable to determine the impact of potential Class I status on the Company’s operations at this time. Climate Change. The scientific community generally accepts that emissions of GHG are linked to global climate change which 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. At this time, 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. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) 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” (CPP). The EPA is expected to finalize such rules by the summer of 2015. In the CPP, the EPA proposes to set state-specific goals for CO2 emissions from the power sector. The EPA maintains such goals 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 plant 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 renewable and nuclear energy, and 4) more efficient electricity use by consumers. 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. Minnesota Power is currently evaluating the CPP as it relates to the State of Minnesota and its potential impact on the Company. We submitted comments on the CPP to the EPA. 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 Note 8. Regulatory Matters.) 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. In April 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. The State of Minnesota appealed the decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit in May 2014. 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 impacted by the facility’s intake structure or cooling system. The Section 316(b) rule was published in the Federal Register in August 2014, with an effective date in October 2014. 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. No NPDES permits have been re-issued containing Section 316(b) requirements since the final rule was published, so at this time we are unable to determine the final cost of compliance; however, our preliminary assessment suggests costs of compliance could be up to approximately $15 million. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through a general rate case. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Environmental Matters (Continued) 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. 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, and public comments were due in September 2013. The EPA is expected 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. 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 (CCR) 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 issued the final CCR rule in December 2014 under Subtitle D (non-hazardous) of RCRA with a final publication date of April 27, 2015. The rule includes additional requirements for new landfill and impoundment construction as well as closure activities related to certain existing impoundments. The final rule also includes provisions that could incentivize early closure of existing impoundments within a three-year window. Costs of compliance, primarily for Boswell and Laskin, could be up to approximately $130 million. The Company continues to work on minimizing costs on behalf of customers through evaluation of beneficial re-use and recycling of CCR and CCR-related waters. We would seek recovery of any additional costs through a general rate case. Other Matters. ALLETE Clean Energy. In January 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired three wind energy facilities–Lake Benton, Storm Lake II and Condon. All three wind energy facilities have PPAs in place for their entire output, which expire in various years between 2019 and 2032. In December 2014, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired a wind facility, Storm Lake I, which has a PPA in place for its entire output which expires in 2018. On April 15, 2015, ALLETE Clean Energy acquired wind facilities in southern Minnesota with PPAs in place for the entire output, which expire in 2018 and 2023. (See Note 4. Acquisitions.) U.S. Water Services. As of March 31, 2015, U.S. Water Services has $3.2 million outstanding in stand-by letters of credit. BNI Coal. As of March 31, 2015, 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. NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued) Other Matters (Continued) ALLETE Properties. As of March 31, 2015, 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 $7.1 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 March 31, 2015, we owned 72 percent of the assessable land in the Town Center District (72 percent at December 31, 2014) and 93 percent of the assessable land in the Palm Coast Park District (93 percent at December 31, 2014). 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. 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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| Operations and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
| Inventories [Policy Text Block] | Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Amounts removed from inventories in our Regulated Operations segment are recorded on an average cost basis. Amounts removed from inventories in our Investments and Other segment are recorded on an average cost, first-in, first-out or specific identification basis. |
| Goodwill [Policy Text Block] | Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price (consideration transferred) over the estimated fair value of net assets of acquired businesses. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized. The Company assesses whether there has been an impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment testing for goodwill is done at the reporting unit level. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s net assets exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The estimated fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis. |
| Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block] | Intangible assets include customer relationships, patents, non-compete agreements and trademarks and trade names. Intangible assets with definite lives consist of customer relationships, patents and non-compete agreements, which are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis with estimated useful lives ranging from less than 1 year to 23 years. We review other definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trademarks and trade names, which are tested for impairment annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment is calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying amount over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis. |
| 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] | 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 is effective beginning in the first quarter of 2015, and applies 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. 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 was to have been 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. On April 1, 2015, the FASB voted to propose a deferral of the effective date of the standard by one year which would make the guidance effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of 2018. The FASB is expected to issue updated accounting guidance regarding the deferred effective date, subject to a 30-day comment period, in the second quarter of 2015. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. In April 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance addressing the presentation requirements for debt issuance costs. Under the revised guidance, all costs incurred to issue debt are to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. The revised guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We are evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard. |
| 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 three months ended March 31, 2015 (none for the year ended December 31, 2014). |
| 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. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method. 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 during the first quarter of 2015 to certain assets and liabilities, which are reflected in the table below. The result of these adjustments had no impact on the results of operations for the period ended March 31, 2015. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method. 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. The allocation of the purchase price is subject to judgment and the preliminary estimated fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed may be adjusted when the valuation analysis is completed in subsequent periods. Preliminary estimates subject to adjustment in subsequent periods relate primarily to customer relationships, developed technologies, trademarks and trade names, and current and deferred income taxes; subsequent adjustments could impact the amount of goodwill recorded. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the discounted cash flow method. 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 liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. Fair value measurements were valued primarily using the replacement cost 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] | Non-financial assets such as equity method investments, goodwill, intangible assets, and property, plant and equipment are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment and recorded at fair value only when an impairment is recognized. 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 2014 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 March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014. Each asset and liability is classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, which may affect the valuation of 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. |
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Policy Text Block] | Our regulated utility operations are subject to accounting guidance for the effect of certain types of regulation. Regulatory assets represent incurred costs that have been deferred as they are probable for recovery in customer rates. Regulatory liabilities represent obligations to make refunds to customers and amounts collected in rates for which the related costs have not yet been incurred. The Company assesses quarterly whether regulatory assets and liabilities meet the criteria for probability of future recovery or deferral. 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 becomes 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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Disclosure of accounting policy for its derivative instruments and hedging activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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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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Disclosure of accounting policy for obligations that resulted from improper or other-than normal operation of a long-lived asset in the past. This accounting policy may address (1) whether the related remediation costs are expensed or capitalized, (2) whether the obligation is measured on a discounted basis, (3) the event, situation, or set of circumstances that generally triggers recognition of loss contingencies arising from the entity's environmental remediation-related obligations, and (4) the timing of recognition of any recoveries. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Disclosure of accounting policy for 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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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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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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Disclosure of accounting policy for goodwill. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of goodwill, how reporting units are determined, how goodwill is allocated to such units, and how the fair values of the reporting units are determined. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for intangible assets. This accounting policy may address both intangible assets subject to amortization and those that are not. The following also may be disclosed: (1) a description of intangible assets (2) the estimated useful lives of those assets (3) the amortization method used (4) how the entity assesses and measures impairment of such assets (5) how future cash flows are estimated (6) how the fair values of such asset are determined. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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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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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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] |
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| Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information [Table Text Block] | Supplemental Statement of Cash Flows Information.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of supplemental cash flow information for the periods presented. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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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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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Business Segments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Segments [Table Text Block] |
NOTE 2. BUSINESS SEGMENTS (Continued)
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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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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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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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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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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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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Acquisition (Table)
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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Acquisition [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Business Acquisitions [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 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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Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)
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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] | The following table summarizes changes to goodwill by business segment for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
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| Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] | Balances of intangible assets, net, excluding goodwill as of March 31, 2015 are as follows:
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure or assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance, by either major class or business segment. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of goodwill by reportable segment and in total which includes a rollforward schedule. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Fair Value (Tables)
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3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Fair Value [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Recurring Fair Value Measures [Table Text Block] |
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| Recurring Fair Value Activity in Level 3 [Table Text Block] |
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| Financial Instruments [Table Text Block] |
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- Details
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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 the fair value measurement of liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets), and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issues, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs) by class of liability. 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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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Regulatory Matters [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] |
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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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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Investment in ATC [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ALLETE's Investment in ATC [Table Text Block] |
NOTE 9. INVESTMENT IN ATC (Continued) ATC’s summarized financial data for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, is as follows:
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- Definition
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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Other Income (Expense) (Tables)
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3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Other Income (Expense) [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the components of non-operating income or non-operating expense that may include amounts earned from dividends, interest on securities, gains (losses) on securities sold, equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, net gain (loss) on sales of business, interest expense and other miscellaneous income or expense items. No definition available.
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Income Tax Expense (Tables)
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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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3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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 three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, 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 three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, were as follows:
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- Definition
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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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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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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- Details
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- Definition
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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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2015
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| Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Table Text Block] |
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- Details
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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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Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Reclassifications (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Dec. 31, 2014
Consolidated Balance Sheet [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment - Net to Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Net [Member]
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Dec. 31, 2014
Consolidated Balance Sheet [Member]
Other Non-Current Assets to Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Net [Member]
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Dec. 31, 2014
Consolidated Balance Sheet [Member]
Total Assets [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Income [Member]
Operating and Maintenance Expenses to Cost of Sales [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Income [Member]
Operating and Maintenance Expenses to Transmission Services [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Income [Member]
Operating and Maintenance Expenses to Taxes Other than Income Taxes [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Income [Member]
Operating Income [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Income [Member]
Net Income [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Income [Member]
Net Income Attributable to ALLETE [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows [Member]
Changes in Regulatory and Other Non-Current Liabilities to Amortization of Power Purchase Agreements [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows [Member]
Operating Activities [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows [Member]
Investing Activities [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows [Member]
Financing Activities [Member]
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| Reclassifications [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
| Reclassification Adjustment | $ 1.6 | $ 3.2 | $ 0 | $ 23.5 | $ 10.8 | $ 11.2 | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 2.3 | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 |
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- Definition
The amount of a reclassification adjustment made to prior period financial statement amounts. No definition available.
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Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Mar. 31, 2015
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Dec. 31, 2014
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Mar. 31, 2015
Minimum [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2015
Maximum [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2015
Regulated Operations [Member]
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Dec. 31, 2014
Regulated Operations [Member]
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Mar. 31, 2015
Investments and Other [Member]
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Dec. 31, 2014
Investments and Other [Member]
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| Business Segments [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fuel | $ 38.0 | $ 29.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Materials and Supplies | 34.6 | 35.2 | 16.3 | 16.3 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Raw Materials | 3.1 | [1] | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Work in Progress | 1.0 | [1] | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Finished Goods | 10.2 | [1] | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Reserve for Obsolescence | (0.5) | [1] | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Inventories | 102.7 | 80.5 | 72.6 | 64.2 | 30.1 | 16.3 | |||||||||||||||||
| Prepayments and Other Current Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred Fuel Adjustment Clause | 15.6 | 16.3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Construction Costs for Development Project | 48.4 | [2] | 48.2 | [2] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Restricted Cash | 5.6 | [3] | 2.7 | [3] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 18.9 | 14.8 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Prepayments and Other Current Assets | 88.5 | 82.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimated Useful Life | 1 year | 23 years | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Restricted Cash | 5.3 | 5.3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Current Liabilites [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Customer Deposits | 20.0 | 19.7 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreements | 18.9 | [4] | 19.4 | [4] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Construction Deposits Received for Development Project | 54.3 | [5] | 54.3 | [5] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 25.4 | 27.4 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Other Current Liabilities | 118.6 | 120.8 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Liabilities [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Asset Retirement Obligation | 111.6 | 109.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreements | 106.3 | [4] | 110.7 | [4] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Contingent Consideration | 35.8 | [6] | 0 | [6] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 48.6 | 45.1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Other Non-Current Liabilities | $ 302.3 | $ 265.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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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
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
Amount of liability recognized arising from contingent consideration in a business combination, expected to be settled beyond 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 structure or a modification to a structure under construction. Includes recently completed structures or modifications to structures that have not been placed into service. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The current portion of prepayments received from customers for goods or services to be provided in the future. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The current portion of money or property received from customers which is either to be returned upon satisfactory contract completion or applied to customer receivables in accordance with the terms of the contract or the understandings. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized fuel costs of a regulated entity that are expected to be recoverable through rate adjustments within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of coal, which is a combustible rock or minerals which are extracted from the ground and used as fuel. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Useful life of finite-lived intangible assets, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before valuation and LIFO reserves of completed merchandise or goods expected to be sold within one year or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before valuation and LIFO reserves of raw materials expected to be sold, or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount, net of valuation reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of products used directly or indirectly in the manufacturing or production process, which may or may not become part of the final product. May also include items used in the storage, presentation or transportation of physical goods. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of valuation reserve for inventory. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount before valuation and LIFO reserves of merchandise or goods in the production process expected to be completed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred through that date and payable arising from transactions not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The noncurrent portion (due beyond one year or one operating cycle) of other accrued expenses (expenses incurred at the end of the reporting period but not yet paid) not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of other miscellaneous assets expected to be realized or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
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. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Supplemental Statement of Cash Flow Information (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
|
| Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] | ||
| Cash Paid During the Period for Interest - Net of Amounts Capitalized | $ 15.3 | $ 12.4 |
| Cash Paid During the Period for Income Taxes | 0.1 | 0.2 |
| Noncash Investing and Financing Activities [Abstract] | ||
| Decrease in Accounts Payable for Capital Additions to Property, Plant and Equipment | (32.2) | (22.6) |
| Capitalized Asset Retirement Costs | 1.2 | 0.6 |
| AFUDC–Equity | 0.9 | 1.8 |
| ALLETE Common Stock Contributed to the Pension Plan | 0 | 19.5 |
| Contingent Consideration | $ 35.7 | $ 0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Future cash outflow to pay for purchases of fixed assets that have occurred. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid during the current period to foreign, federal, state, and local authorities as taxes on income, net of any cash received during the current period as refunds for the overpayment of taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the capitalized cost of equity (based on assumed rate of return) and / or borrowed funds (based on interest rate) used to finance construction of regulated assets, which is expected to be recovered through rate adjustments. As a result of this capitalization, net income is increased. This element pertains to certain regulated industries, such as public utilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the carrying amount of asset retirement obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid for interest during the period net of cash paid for interest that is capitalized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of [all] liabilities that an Entity assumes in acquiring a business or in consideration for an asset received in a noncash (or part noncash) acquisition. Noncash is defined as transactions during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined contribution or defined benefit plan. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Area of land held. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate costs related to goods produced and sold and services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. This excludes costs incurred during the reporting period related to financial services rendered and other revenue generating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Cost of electricity purchased as well as fuel used to generate electricity used in operations and sold during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Cost incurred for transmission operations and maintenance by total kilowatt-hours paid to sources. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses from ongoing operations, after income or loss from equity method investments, but before income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of the cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
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.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Taxes, excluding payroll, income and excise taxes, if not included elsewhere, that could include production, real and personal property, and other selling and distribution-related taxes. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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.
|
| 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
A valuation allowance relating to a written agreement to receive money (at a specified future date(s) more than one year from the reporting date, consisting of principal as well as any accrued interest) for the portion that is expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Investments in debt and equity securities which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading and which are intended to be sold or mature more than one year from the balance sheet date or operating cycle, if longer. Such securities are reported at fair value; unrealized gains (losses) related to Available-for-sale Securities are excluded from earnings and reported in a separate component of shareholders' equity (other comprehensive income), unless the Available-for-sale security is designated as a hedge or is determined to have had an other than temporary decline in fair value below its amortized cost basis. All or a portion of the unrealized holding gain (loss) of an Available-for-sale security that is designated as being hedged in a fair value hedge is recognized in earnings during the period of the hedge, as are other than temporary declines in fair value below the cost basis for investments in equity securities and debt securities that an entity intends to sell or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell before the recovery of its amortized cost basis. Other than temporary declines in fair value below the cost basis for debt securities categorized as Available-for-sale that an entity does not intend to sell and for which it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before the recovery of its amortized cost basis are bifurcated into credit losses and losses related to all other factors. Other than temporary declines in fair value below cost basis related to credit losses are recognized in earnings, and losses related to all other factors are recognized in other comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of investments that are intended to be held for an extended period of time (longer than one operating cycle). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
An amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date more than one year from the balance sheet date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the debt. The debt also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among a myriad of other features and characteristics. This amount does not include amounts related to receivables held-for-sale. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Other long-term investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy, not including investments in marketable securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
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
|
| 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of real estate investments, 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; (7) other real estate investments; (8) real estate joint ventures; and (9) unconsolidated real estate and other joint ventures not separately presented. 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 |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] | ||||||
| Cost | $ 19.8 | $ 19.6 | ||||
| Gross Unrealized Gain | 0.3 | 0.2 | ||||
| Gross Unrealized Loss | 0.8 | 0.9 | ||||
| Fair Value | $ 19.3 | [1] | $ 18.9 | [1] | ||
|
||||||
| 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
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 - Investments Parenthetical (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|---|---|---|
| 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
|
|
Acquisitions (Details)
|
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|
| Acquisitions [Abstract] | ||
| Business Combination, Reason for Business Combinations | The acquisitions below are consistent with ALLETE’s stated strategy of investing in energy infrastructure and related services businesses to complement its core regulated utility, balance exposure to business cycles and changing demand, and provide potential long-term earnings growth. | |
| Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information | not significant | not significant |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Description of the pro forma information, nature of adjustments made to historical information to arrive at pro forma amounts, amounts excluded from pro forma information, any material-nonrecurring items included in the pro forma information and limitations of pro forma disclosures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents a description of the primary reason for the business combination which may consist of general categories such as top-line growth, synergistic benefits, market share, and diversification and the more detailed factors that might apply. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Acquisitions - U.S. Water Services (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
Feb. 10, 2015
U.S. Water Services [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2015
U.S. Water Services [Member]
|
Feb. 10, 2015
U.S. Water Services [Member]
|
||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Feb. 10, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Name of Acquired Entity | U.S. Water Services | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred | $ 202.3 | |||||||||||||||||
| Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross | 166.6 | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired | 87.00% | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, Liability | 35.7 | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Percent of Results of Operations Reflected in Income Statement | 100.00% | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Effective Percentage of Business Acquired | 100.00% | |||||||||||||||||
| Assets [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 0.9 | |||||||||||||||||
| Accounts Receivable | 16.8 | |||||||||||||||||
| Inventories | 13.4 | [1] | ||||||||||||||||
| Other Current Assets | 5.3 | [2] | ||||||||||||||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment | 10.6 | |||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill | 127.1 | [3] | ||||||||||||||||
| Intangible Assets | 83.0 | [4] | ||||||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Assets | 0.2 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total Assets Acquired | 257.3 | |||||||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Other Current Liabilities | 18.7 | |||||||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Liabilities | 36.3 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total Liabilities and Non-Controlling Interest Assumed | 55.0 | |||||||||||||||||
| Net Identifiable Assets Acquired | 202.3 | |||||||||||||||||
| Fair Value Adjustments for Work in Process and Finished Goods | 2.7 | |||||||||||||||||
| Fair Value of Sales Backlog | 1.6 | |||||||||||||||||
| Restricted Cash | 5.6 | [5] | 2.7 | [5] | 2.1 | |||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount | 3.2 | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Acquisition Related Costs | $ 3.0 | |||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effective percentage of the business acquired by the acquiring entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair Value Adjustment for Work in Process and Finished Goods included in inventories at the acquisition date. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Business Combination, Fair Value of Sales Backlog included in Other Current Assets at the acquisition date. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The percent of the acquired business' results of operations reflected in the acquiring entity's income statement. 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
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired at the acquisition date in the business combination. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of goodwill arising from a business combination that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. 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 consideration transferred, consisting of acquisition-date fair value of assets transferred by the acquirer, liabilities incurred by the acquirer, and equity interest issued by the acquirer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of liability recognized arising from contingent consideration in a business combination. 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 due from customers or clients for goods or services, including trade receivables, that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, and amounts due from others, including related parties expected to be converted to cash, sold or exchanged 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 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 intangible assets, excluding goodwill, acquired at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of inventory recognized as of 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 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
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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
|
Acquisitions - Chanarambie/Viking (Details) (Chanarambie/Viking [Member], Subsequent Event [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
0 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Apr. 15, 2015
|
Apr. 15, 2015
MW
|
|
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||
| Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Apr. 15, 2015 | |
| Business Acquisition, Name of Acquired Entity | Chanarambie/Viking | |
| Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross | $ 47.5 | |
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 97.5 | |
|
Chanarambie/Viking PPA (expires 2018) [Member]
|
||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 12 | 12 |
|
Chanarambie/Viking PPA (expires 2023) [Member]
|
||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 85.5 | 85.5 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| 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
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
|
|
Acquisitions - Armenia Mountain (Details) (Armenia Mountain [Member], Subsequent Event [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
0 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Apr. 30, 2015
|
Apr. 30, 2015
MW
|
|
|
Armenia Mountain [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
|
||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||
| Member's Interest Purchase Agreement, Name of Business to be Acquired | Armenia Mountain | |
| Member's Interest Purchase Agreement, Consideration | $ 108.0 | |
| Member's Interest Purchase Agreement, Percent Ownership to be Acquired | 100.00% | |
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 100.5 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Member's Interest Purchase Agreement No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Member's Interest Purchase Agreement, Name of Business to be Acquired No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Member's Interest Purchase Agreement, Percent Ownership to be Acquired No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Acquisitions - ACE Wind Acquisition (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Feb. 11, 2014
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
Jan. 30, 2014
Armenia Mountain [Member]
|
Jan. 30, 2014
ACE Wind [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2014
ACE Wind [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Lake Benton [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Storm Lake II [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Condon [Member]
MW
|
||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Jan. 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Name of Acquired Entity | Lake Benton | Storm Lake II | Condon | |||||||||||||||||
| Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross | $ 26.9 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 104.0 | 77 | 50 | |||||||||||||||||
| Assets [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 3.8 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other Current Assets | 14.3 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment | 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 | 106.3 | [3] | 110.7 | [3] | 99.4 | |||||||||||||||
| 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 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreements | 18.9 | [3] | 19.4 | [3] | 12.4 | |||||||||||||||
| Non-Controlling Interest, Decrease from 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
The amount of goodwill arising from a business combination that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. 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
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
|
|
Acquisitions - Wind Development Project (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
Nov. 20, 2014
Wind Development Project [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2014
Wind Development Project [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Wind Development Project [Member]
MW
|
Nov. 20, 2014
Wind Development Project [Member]
|
Apr. 15, 2015
Subsequent Event [Member]
Wind Development Project [Member]
|
|||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Nov. 20, 2014 | ||||||||||||
| Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross | $ 27.0 | ||||||||||||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 107.0 | ||||||||||||
| Contractual Sales Price | 200 | ||||||||||||
| Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||||||
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 3.6 | ||||||||||||
| Construction Costs for Development Project | 48.4 | [1] | 48.2 | [1] | 48.2 | 23.4 | |||||||
| Goodwill | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||||||||||||
| Customer Deposits Received for Development Project | 54.3 | [2] | 54.3 | [2] | 54.3 | 54.3 | |||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Increase (Decrease) in Customer Advances | $ 50 | ||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Contractual Sales Price No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. 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
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 liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of structure or a modification to a structure under construction. Includes recently completed structures or modifications to structures that have not been placed into service. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The current portion of prepayments received from customers for goods or services to be provided in the future. 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amount of prepayments by customers for goods or services to be provided at a later date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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
|
|
Acquisitions - Storm Lake I (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 17, 2014
|
Mar. 31, 2015
MW
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
Dec. 17, 2014
|
||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreements | $ 106.3 | [1] | $ 110.7 | [1] | |||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreement - Current | 18.9 | [1] | 19.4 | [1] | |||||||||
|
Storm Lake I [Member]
|
|||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Dec. 17, 2014 | ||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Name of Acquired Entity | Storm Lake I | ||||||||||||
| Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross | 15.1 | ||||||||||||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 108.0 | ||||||||||||
| Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||||||
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 0.4 | ||||||||||||
| Other Current Assets | 4.7 | ||||||||||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment | 47.3 | ||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Assets | 11.4 | [2] | |||||||||||
| Total Assets Acquired | 63.8 | ||||||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | |||||||||||||
| Other Current Liabilities | 8.2 | [3] | |||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreements | 23.5 | ||||||||||||
| Other Non-Current Liabilities | 17.0 | ||||||||||||
| Total Liabilities and Non-Controlling Interest Assumed | 48.7 | ||||||||||||
| Net Identifiable Assets Acquired | 15.1 | ||||||||||||
| Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent | 0.4 | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill Description | immaterial | ||||||||||||
| Power Purchase Agreement - Current | $ 7.5 | ||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Capacity of a generating facility, unit, or project in megawatts. No definition available.
|
| 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. 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 | ||||||||||
|
- 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
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 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 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The noncurrent cash, cash equivalents and investments that is restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits classified as long-term; that is not expected to be released from such existing restrictions within one year of the balance sheet date or operating cycle, whichever is longer. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. Includes noncurrent cash equivalents and investments that are similarly restricted as to withdrawal, usage or disposal. No definition available.
|
|
Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets | $ 67.7 | $ 1.9 | ||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Additions as a Result of Acquisitions | 66.4 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization | 0.6 | |||||
| Total Intangible Assets | 84.3 | 1.9 | ||||
| Total Intangible Assets, Additions as a Result of Acquisitions | 83.0 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Fiscal Year Amortization Expense [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of 2015 | 3.6 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, 2016 | 4.3 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, 2017 | 4.2 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, 2018 | 4.1 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, 2019 | 4.0 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, 2020 and Thereafter | 47.5 | |||||
|
Minimum [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 1 year | |||||
|
Maximum [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 23 years | |||||
|
Weighted Average [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 21 years | |||||
|
Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets | 16.6 | 0 | ||||
| Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Additions as a Result of Acquisitions | 16.6 | |||||
|
Customer Relationships [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets | 59.6 | 0 | ||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Additions as a Result of Acquisitions | 60.1 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization | 0.5 | |||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 23 years | |||||
|
Developed Technology and Other [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets | 8.1 | [1] | 1.9 | [1] | ||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Additions as a Result of Acquisitions | 6.3 | [1] | ||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization | 0.1 | [1] | ||||
|
Developed Technology and Other [Member] | Minimum [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 1 year | |||||
|
Developed Technology and Other [Member] | Maximum [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 14 years | |||||
|
Developed Technology and Other [Member] | Weighted Average [Member]
|
||||||
| Intangible Assets [Abstract] | ||||||
| Definite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 9 years | |||||
|
Investments and Other [Member]
|
||||||
| Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||||||
| Balance as of December 31, 2014 | 2.9 | |||||
| Acquired Goodwill | 127.1 | |||||
| Balance as of March 31, 2015 | $ 130.0 | |||||
|
||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of increase in assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance, resulting from a business combination. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate expense charged against earnings to allocate the cost of intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of increase in assets, excluding financial assets, lacking physical substance with a definite life, resulting from a business combination. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized 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. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized in the remainder of the 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. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during 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 amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during 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 amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during 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 amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount after amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Useful life of finite-lived intangible assets, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. No definition available.
|
| 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of increase in asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized resulting from a business combination. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of increase in assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with an indefinite life, resulting from a business combination. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance and having a projected indefinite period of benefit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Derivatives - Hedged Item (Details) (Term Loan [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|---|---|
|
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 |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|
|
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 three months ended March 31, 2015. | |
| Interest Rate Swap Liability | $ 0.2 | $ 0.3 |
| 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 | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Cash Equivalents | $ 2.8 | $ 2.9 | ||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 8.3 | [1] | 8.1 | [1] | ||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 11.0 | [1] | 10.8 | [1] | ||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 2.8 | [1] | 2.9 | [1] | ||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 22.1 | 21.8 | ||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 15.4 | [2] | 16.2 | [2] | ||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.2 | [3] | 0.3 | [3] | ||||||
| U.S. Water Services Contingent Consideration | 35.8 | [2] | ||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 51.4 | 16.5 | ||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | (29.3) | 5.3 | ||||||||
| Activity in Level 3 [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 | 35.8 | [2] | ||||||||
| Fair Value Hierarchy Transfers, All Levels | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 8.3 | [1] | 8.1 | [1] | ||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 2.8 | [1] | 2.9 | [1] | ||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 11.1 | 11.0 | ||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0 | [3] | 0 | [3] | ||||||
| U.S. Water Services Contingent Consideration | 0 | [2] | ||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | 11.1 | 11.0 | ||||||||
| Activity in Level 3 [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 | 0 | [2] | ||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 11.0 | [1] | 10.8 | [1] | ||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 11.0 | 10.8 | ||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 15.4 | [2] | 16.2 | [2] | ||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0.2 | [3] | 0.3 | [3] | ||||||
| U.S. Water Services Contingent Consideration | 0 | [2] | ||||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 15.6 | 16.5 | ||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | (4.6) | (5.7) | ||||||||
| Activity in Level 3 [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 | 0 | [2] | ||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Investments [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Available-for-sale - Equity Securities | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||||||
| Available-for-sale - Corporate Debt Securities | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||||||
| Cash Equivalents | 0 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||||||
| Total Fair Value of Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
| Liabilities [Abstract] | ||||||||||
| Deferred Compensation | 0 | [2] | 0 | [2] | ||||||
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap | 0 | [3] | 0 | [3] | ||||||
| U.S. Water Services Contingent Consideration | 35.8 | [2] | 0 | |||||||
| Total Fair Value of Liabilities | 35.8 | 0 | ||||||||
| Total Net Fair Value of Assets (Liabilities) | (35.8) | 0 | ||||||||
| Activity in Level 3 [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||
| Activity in Level 3, Period Increase | 0 | |||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 | 35.8 | [2] | 0 | |||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recognition of U.S. Water Services Contingent Consideration [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Activity in Level 3 [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||
| Activity in Level 3, Period Increase | 35.7 | |||||||||
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Accretion Expense [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Activity in Level 3 [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||
| Activity in Level 3, Period Increase | $ 0.1 | |||||||||
|
||||||||||
| 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
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 | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of increase (decrease) of financial instrument classified as a liability measured using unobservable inputs that reflect the entity's own assumption about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value of financial instrument classified as a liability measured using unobservable inputs that reflect the entity's own assumption about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing. 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 |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|---|---|---|
| Financial Instruments [Abstract] | ||
| Long-Term Debt, Including Current Portion - Carrying Amount | $ 1,376.1 | $ 1,373.5 |
| Long-Term Debt, Including Current Portion - Fair Value | $ 1,525.4 | $ 1,484.5 |
| 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.
|
|
Fair Value - Nonrecurring Fair Value Measures (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|
| Nonrecurring Fair Value Measures [Abstract] | ||
| Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage | 8.00% | |
| Equity Method Investment, Carrying Amount | $ 122.3 | $ 121.1 |
| Intangible Assets, Carrying Amount | 84.3 | 1.9 |
|
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
|
||
| Nonrecurring Fair Value Measures [Abstract] | ||
| Equity Method Investment, Carrying Amount | 122.3 | 121.1 |
| Equity Method Investment, Impairment | 0 | 0 |
| Goodwill, Carrying Amount | 130.0 | 2.9 |
| Goodwill, Impairment | 0 | |
| Intangible Assets, Carrying Amount | 84.3 | 1.9 |
| Intangible Assets, Impairment | 0 | |
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Impairment | $ 0 | $ 0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents an other than temporary decline in value that has been recognized against an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the investment represents the amount of the write down which is or was reflected in earnings. The written down value is a new cost basis with the adjusted value of the investment becoming its new carrying value subject to the equity accounting method. Evidence of a loss in value might include, but would not necessarily be limited to, absence of an ability to recover the carrying amount of the investment or inability of the investee to sustain an earnings capacity which would justify the carrying amount of the investment. 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
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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of loss from the write-down of an asset representing the 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of impairment loss recognized in the period resulting from the write-down of the carrying amount of an intangible asset (excluding goodwill) to fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of reclassification, impairment, donation, or other change to 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. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Regulatory Matters - Utility Rates (Details)
|
0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Bison Wind Energy Center [Member]
MW
|
Jun. 01, 2011
MPUC 2010 Minnesota Rate Case [Member]
Electric Rates [Member]
Retail Customers [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2015
FERC-Approved Wholesale Rates [Member]
Electric Rates [Member]
Municipal Customers [Member]
Customers
Years
|
Jan. 01, 2013
PSCW 2012 Wisconsin Rate Case [Member]
Retail Customers [Member]
|
|
| Public Utilities, General Disclosures [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 (Years) | 3 | |||
| Generating Capacity (MW) | 497 |
| 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of public utility's approved equity to capital, including debt and equity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of public utility's approved return on equity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Regulatory Matters - Boswell Mercury Emissions Reduction Plan (Details) (Boswell Unit 4 [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|---|---|
|
Boswell Unit 4 [Member]
|
|
| Schedule of Utility Generating Facilities [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures | $ 260 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | $ 162 |
| 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])
|
Mar. 31, 2015
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 - Regulatory Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities Currently Earning a Return | No regulatory assets or liabilities are currently earning a return. | |||||||||
| Current Regulatory Assets | $ 15.6 | $ 16.3 | ||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 358.0 | 357.3 | ||||||||
| Total Regulatory Assets | 373.6 | 373.6 | ||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 101.2 | 94.2 | ||||||||
|
Income Taxes [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 13.5 | 13.4 | ||||||||
|
Plant Removal Obligations [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 22.0 | 22.8 | ||||||||
|
Wholesale and Retail Contra AFUDC [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 46.9 | 42.9 | ||||||||
|
Deferred Fuel [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Current Regulatory Assets | 15.6 | [1] | 16.3 | [1] | ||||||
|
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 220.0 | [2] | 223.9 | [2] | ||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | 2.9 | [2] | 3.5 | [2] | ||||||
|
Income Taxes [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 46.8 | 46.6 | ||||||||
|
Asset Retirement Obligations [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 18.6 | 17.8 | ||||||||
|
Cost Recovery Riders [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Assets | 63.4 | [3] | 59.7 | [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 | 4.2 | 4.3 | ||||||||
| Non-Current Regulatory Liabilities | $ 15.9 | $ 11.6 | ||||||||
|
||||||||||
| 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 | 0 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
Apr. 30, 2015
Subsequent Event [Member]
|
|
| Investment in ATC [Abstract] | |||
| Ownership Percentage | 8.00% | ||
| Approved Return on Common Equity | 12.20% | ||
| Equity Method Investment, Expected Additional Investment | $ 1.1 | ||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||
| Cash Investments | 0.4 | 0.4 | |
| ALLETE's Investment in ATC [Roll Forward] | |||
| Equity Investment Balance as of December 31, 2014 | 121.1 | ||
| Cash Investments | 0.4 | 0.4 | |
| Equity Earnings in ATC | 3.9 | 5.1 | |
| Distributed ATC Earnings | (3.1) | ||
| Equity Investment Balance as of March 31, 2015 | 122.3 | ||
| ATC Summarized Financial Data [Abstract] | |||
| Revenue | 152.4 | 163.3 | |
| Operating Expense | 80.0 | 78.6 | |
| Other Expense | 24.4 | 21.6 | |
| Net Income | 48.0 | 63.1 | |
| ALLETE's Equity in Net Income | $ 3.9 | $ 5.1 | |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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 amount of other expense reported by an equity method investment of the entity. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents disclosure of the amount of dividends or other distributions received from unconsolidated subsidiaries, certain corporate joint ventures, and certain noncontrolled corporation; these investments are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. This element excludes distributions that constitute a return of investment, which are classified as investing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee. This is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- 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
|
|
Investment in ATC - FERC Complaints (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|
|
Sensitivity Analysis [Member]
|
|
| Sensitivity Analysis [Line Items] | |
| Basis Point Reduction on Approved Rate of Return on Common Equity | 50 |
|
After-tax [Member] | Sensitivity Analysis [Member]
|
|
| Sensitivity Analysis [Line Items] | |
| Effect on Future Earnings, Amount | $ 0.5 |
|
Pre-tax [Member] | Sensitivity Analysis [Member]
|
|
| Sensitivity Analysis [Line Items] | |
| Effect on Future Earnings, Amount | 0.9 |
|
FERC Complaint 1 [Member]
|
|
| Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
| Equity Method Investment, Proposed Return on Common Equity | 9.15% |
|
FERC Complaint 2 [Member]
|
|
| Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
| Equity Method Investment, Proposed Return on Common Equity | 8.67% |
|
Rainy River Energy [Member]
|
|
| Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
| Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss | 1.4 |
|
Rainy River Energy [Member] | FERC Complaint 2 [Member]
|
|
| Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
| Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss | $ 1.1 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A sensitivity analysis using basis point reduction. 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 | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The quantified amount of the future effect on earnings. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the estimated amount of loss from the specified contingency as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
| Short-Term Debt Outstanding | $ 122.6 | $ 104.4 | |
| Proceeds from Issuance of Long-Term Debt | 0 | 100.0 | |
| Long-Term Debt Outstanding | $ 1,253.8 | $ 1,272.8 | |
| 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 | ||||||||||
|
- 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 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
|
|
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt - Financial Covenants (Details)
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|---|---|
| Financial Covenants [Abstract] | |
| Required Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.65 |
| Actual Indebtedness to Total Capital Ratio | 0.44 |
| 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 | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
|
| Other Income (Expense) [Abstract] | ||
| AFUDC–Equity | $ 0.9 | $ 1.8 |
| Investments and Other Income | 0.2 | 0.2 |
| Total Other Income | $ 1.1 | $ 2.0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|||||
| Current Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] | |||||||
| Federal | $ 0 | [1] | $ 0 | [1] | |||
| State | 0.1 | [1] | 0 | [1] | |||
| Total Current Tax Expense | 0.1 | 0 | |||||
| Deferred Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] | |||||||
| Federal | 4.8 | 6.3 | |||||
| State | 1.5 | 2.7 | |||||
| Investment Tax Credit Amortization | (0.2) | (0.2) | |||||
| Total Deferred Tax Expense | 6.1 | 8.8 | |||||
| Total Income Tax Expense | 6.2 | 8.8 | |||||
| Effective Income Tax Rate | 13.40% | 20.70% | |||||
| Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate | 41.00% | ||||||
| Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract] | |||||||
| Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits | 2.0 | 2.0 | |||||
| Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Favorably Impact Effective Tax Rate | $ 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 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
|||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Beginning Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | $ (21.1) | $ (17.1) | ||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income Before Reclassifications | 0.3 | 0 | ||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | 0.2 | 0.3 | ||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income | 0.5 | 0.3 | ||||||
| Ending Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (20.6) | (16.8) | ||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Unrealized Gains on Available-for-sale Securities, Before Tax | 0 | 0 | ||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Before Tax | (0.5) | (0.5) | ||||||
|
Income Tax Expense [Member]
|
||||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Unrealized Gains on Available-for-sale Securities, Tax | 0.1 | [1] | 0 | [1] | ||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Tax | 0.2 | [1] | 0.2 | [1] | ||||
|
Operating Expenses - Operating and Maintenance [Member]
|
||||||||
| Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||||||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Prior Service Costs, Before Tax | 0.1 | [2] | 0.1 | [2] | ||||
| AOCI Reclassification, Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items, Actuarial Gains and Losses, Before Tax | (0.6) | [2] | (0.6) | [2] | ||||
|
Unrealized Gains and Losses on Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
|
||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Beginning Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (0.3) | (0.1) | ||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income Before Reclassifications | 0.2 | 0 | ||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (0.1) | 0 | ||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income | 0.1 | 0 | ||||||
| Ending Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (0.2) | (0.1) | ||||||
|
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Items [Member]
|
||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Beginning Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (20.7) | (16.7) | ||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income Before Reclassifications | 0 | 0 | ||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | 0.3 | 0.3 | ||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income | 0.3 | 0.3 | ||||||
| Ending Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (20.4) | (16.4) | ||||||
|
Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedge [Member]
|
||||||||
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Beginning Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | (0.1) | (0.3) | ||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income Before Reclassifications | 0.1 | 0 | ||||||
| Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | 0 | 0 | ||||||
| Net Other Comprehensive Income | 0.1 | 0 | ||||||
| Ending Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | $ 0 | $ (0.3) | ||||||
|
||||||||
| 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 | 0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
Feb. 04, 2015
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Sep. 05, 2014
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Feb. 26, 2014
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Feb. 04, 2015
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Sep. 05, 2014
Forward Contracts [Member]
|
Mar. 04, 2014
Options Held [Member]
|
|
| Earnings Per Share and Common Stock [Abstract] | ||||||||
| Antidilutive Shares Excluded from Diluted EPS Computation | 0 | 0 | ||||||
| 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 | 1.4 | 0.4 | |||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock - Option Agreement | $ 65.4 | $ 65.0 | $ 20.2 | |||||
| Forward Contract Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Forward Rate Per Share | $ 48.01 | |||||||
| Earnings Per Share - Basic [Abstract] | ||||||||
| Net Income Attributable to ALLETE | 39.9 | 33.5 | ||||||
| Average Common Shares | 46.9 | 41.4 | ||||||
| Earnings Per Share | $ 0.85 | $ 0.81 | ||||||
| Earnings Per Share - Diluted [Abstract] | ||||||||
| Net Income to Attributable ALLETE | 39.9 | 33.5 | ||||||
| Average Common Shares | 47.1 | 41.6 | ||||||
| Earnings Per Share | $ 0.85 | $ 0.80 | ||||||
| Dilutive Securities (in shares) | 0.2 | 0.2 | ||||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock - Pension Plan | $ 0 | $ 19.5 | ||||||
| Common Stock Issued - Pension Plan (in shares) | 0.4 | |||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| 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 | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
Mar. 31, 2014
|
|
|
Pension [Member]
|
||
| Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Abstract] | ||
| Service Cost | $ 2.5 | $ 2.1 |
| Interest Cost | 7.5 | 7.4 |
| Expected Return on Plan Assets | (10.2) | (9.6) |
| Amortization of Prior Service Costs (Credits) | 0 | 0.1 |
| Amortization of Net Loss | 4.5 | 3.6 |
| Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) | 4.3 | 3.6 |
| Contributions | 0 | 19.5 |
| Estimated Future Contributions | 0 | |
|
Other Postretirement [Member]
|
||
| Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Abstract] | ||
| Service Cost | 1.1 | 0.9 |
| Interest Cost | 1.8 | 1.8 |
| Expected Return on Plan Assets | (2.7) | (2.6) |
| Amortization of Prior Service Costs (Credits) | (0.8) | (0.6) |
| Amortization of Net Loss | 0.1 | 0.1 |
| Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) | (0.5) | (0.4) |
| Contributions | 0 | 0 |
| 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 $)
|
3 Months Ended | 7 Months Ended | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Square Butte PPA [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2014
Square Butte PPA [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Square Butte PPA [Member]
Square Butte Coal-fired Unit [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Square Butte PPA [Member]
Minnkota Sales Agreement [Member]
Square Butte Coal-fired Unit [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2014
Square Butte PPA [Member]
Minnkota Sales Agreement [Member]
Square Butte Coal-fired Unit [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Minnkota PPA [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Oliver Wind I PPA [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Oliver Wind II PPA [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires May 2020) [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires April 2022) [Member]
MWh
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires 2035) [Member]
Years
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Manitoba Hydro PPA (expires 2040) [Member]
Years
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Great River Energy PPA (expires May 2020) [Member]
MW
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Great River Energy Capacity Only PPA (expires May 2020) [Member]
MW
|
|
| Power Purchase Agreements [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||
| Generating Unit Capacity (MW) | 455 | |||||||||||||
| Output Entitlement | 50.00% | 28.00% | 23.00% | |||||||||||
| PPA Counterparty Debt Outstanding | $ 390,900,000 | |||||||||||||
| Annual Debt Service | 45,000,000 | |||||||||||||
| Power Purchased under Long-term Contracts | 19,200,000 | 16,800,000 | ||||||||||||
| Interest Expense | 2,500,000 | 2,500,000 | ||||||||||||
| Output Being Purchased (MW) | 50 | 50 | 48 | 50 | 250 | 133 | 50 | 50 | ||||||
| Fixed Capacity Charges | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||||||||||||
| Output Being Purchased (MWh) | 1,000,000 | |||||||||||||
| Term of Contract (Years) | 15 | 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 - Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts (Details) (Coal Supply and Transportation [Member], USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|---|---|
|
Coal Supply and Transportation [Member]
|
|
| Coal, Rail and Shipping Contracts [Line Items] | |
| Coal Supply and Transportation Agreements, Minimum Annual Payment Obligation for Remainder of 2015 | $ 42.3 |
| Coal Supply and Transportation Agreements, Minimum Annual Payment Obligation in 2016 | 27.0 |
| Coal Supply and Transportation Agreements, Minimum Annual Payment Obligation in 2017 | 27.6 |
| Coal Supply and Transportation Agreements, Minimum Annual Payment Obligation in 2018 | $ 28.4 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of the fixed and determinable portion of the unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation maturing 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 the fixed and determinable portion of the unrecorded 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 fixed and determinable portion of the unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation maturing 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 the fixed and determinable portion of the unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation maturing in the remainder of the 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. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Leasing Agreements (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|---|---|
| Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2015 | $ 13.4 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2016 | 11.4 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2017 | 10.6 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2018 | 9.5 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2019 | 8.3 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due Thereafter | 27.3 |
|
BNI Coal Dragline Lease [Member]
|
|
| Leasing Agreements [Line Items] | |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2015 | 2.8 |
| Termination Fee | 3.0 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2016 | 2.8 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2017 | 2.8 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2018 | 2.8 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due in 2019 | 2.8 |
| Operating Leases, Minimum Payments Due Thereafter | $ 22.4 |
| 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 |
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|---|---|
|
CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Number of CapX2020 Projects | 3 |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures | $ 100 |
|
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 | 560 |
|
Great Northern Transmission Line [Member] | Maximum [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures | $ 710 |
|
Completed Projects - Current Year [Member] | CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Number of CapX2020 Projects | 1 |
|
Completed Projects - Prior Years [Member] | CapX2020 [Member]
|
|
| Transmission [Line Items] | |
| Number of CapX2020 Projects | 2 |
| 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 |
|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
|
|
|
Boswell Unit 4 [Member]
|
|
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Capital Expenditures | $ 260 |
| Capital Cost Spent to Date | 162 |
|
Maximum [Member] | Clean Water Act - Aquatic Organisms [Member]
|
|
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Environmental Compliance Costs | 15 |
|
Maximum [Member] | Coal Combustion Residuals [Member]
|
|
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | |
| Estimated Environmental Compliance Costs | 130 |
|
NOV Consent Decree [Member]
|
|
| Environmental Matters [Line Items] | |
| Generating Unit Capacity (MW) | 200.0 |
|
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 | ||||||||||
|
- 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
Best estimate of the loss exposure for reasonably possible environmental contingencies at an individual site for which no accrual has been recorded. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingencies - Other Matters (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2015
Years
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
|
|
U.S. Water Services [Member] | Letters of Credit [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Collateral | $ 3.2 | |
|
BNI Coal Reclamation Liability [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Estimated Obligation | 49.3 | |
|
BNI Coal Reclamation Liability [Member] | Letters of Credit [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Collateral | 0.6 | |
|
BNI Coal Reclamation Liability [Member] | Surety Bonds [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Collateral | 49.5 | |
|
ALLETE Properties Development and Maintenance Obligations [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Estimated Obligation | 7.1 | |
|
ALLETE Properties Development and Maintenance Obligations [Member] | Surety Bonds and Letters of Credit [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Collateral | 10.2 | |
|
Town Center Community Development District Obligation [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Bond Original Principal | 26.4 | |
| Bond Interest Rate | 6.00% | |
| Bond Term (in Years) | 31 | |
| Ownership Percentage of Benefited Property | 72.00% | 72.00% |
| Annual Assessment | 1.4 | |
|
Palm Coast Park Community Development District Obligation [Member]
|
||
| Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] | ||
| Bond Original Principal | 31.8 | |
| Bond Interest Rate | 5.70% | |
| Bond Term (in Years) | 31 | |
| Ownership Percentage of Benefited Property | 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
Original principal amount of special assessment bonds used to fund real estate development projects which are not included in Long-term Debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 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 any assets held either as collateral or by third parties that, upon the occurence of any triggering event or condition under the guarantee, can be obtained and liquidated to recover all or a portion of the amounts paid under the guarantee. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) the guarantor could be required to make under the guarantee or each group of similar guarantees before reduction for potential recoveries under recourse or collateralization provisions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|