Income Taxes (Income Tax Expense for Continuing Operations Including Noncontrolling Interests) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
Total income tax expense	$ 745		$ 2,057		$ 596
Dominion [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	346
Federal	(11)	[1]	891	[1]	952	[1]
State	0	[1]	308	[1]	129	[1]
Total current	(11)	[1]	1,199	[1]	1,081	[1]
Federal	695	[1]	764	[1]	(424)	[1]
State	63	[1]	96	[1]	(59)	[1]
Total deferred	758	[1]	860	[1]	(483)	[1]
Amortization of deferred investment tax credits	(2)	[1]	(2)	[1]	(2)	[1]
Total income tax expense	$ 745	[1]	$ 2,057	[1]	$ 596	[1]

[1] In 2011, Dominion's federal income tax expense includes a $346 million benefit related to its current year operating loss that is expected to be used in future years, and state income tax expense reflects changes in the amount of income apportioned among states, higher tax credits, claims for refunds and previously unrecognized tax benefits due to the expiration of statues of limitations.