Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Accounts Receivable (Numeric) [Abstract]
Purchases of accounts receivable	$ 287	$ 254

Represents purchases, under a PUC-approved program, of certain accounts receivable from alternative provider of last resort suppliers at a nominal discount, which reflects a provision for uncollectible accounts.

No definition available.

Name:	ppl_PurchasesOfAccountsReceivable
Namespace Prefix:	ppl_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration