Income Taxes, Net Operating Losses (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012
Federal [Member]
Net Operating Losses [Abstract]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 60.3
Year that net operating losses begin to expire	2031
State [Member]
Net Operating Losses [Abstract]
Net operating loss carryforwards	53.4
Year that net operating losses begin to expire	2026
Cleco Power [Member] | Federal [Member]
Net Operating Losses [Abstract]
Net operating loss carryforwards	16.9
Year that net operating losses begin to expire	2031
Cleco Power [Member] | State [Member]
Net Operating Losses [Abstract]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 9.6
Year that net operating losses begin to expire	2026