Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Consolidated Statements of Comphrehensive Income Parenthetical (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Net tax expense (benefit) on post-retirement benefits	$ 3,137	$ (4,230)	$ (344)
Net tax expense (benefit) on cash flow hedges	925	1,460	(10,002)
Cleco Power [Member]
Net tax expense (benefit) on post-retirement benefits	2,355	(1,436)	37
Net tax expense (benefit) on cash flow hedges	$ 925	$ 1,460	$ (10,002)