Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Parenthetical - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Net tax expense (benefit) on post-retirement benefits	$ 3,670	$ (4,378)	$ 3,137
Net tax expense on cash flow hedges	132	132	925
Cleco Power [Member]
Net tax expense (benefit) on post-retirement benefits	(9)	(1,453)	2,355
Net tax expense on cash flow hedges	$ 132	$ 132	$ 925