Variable Interest Entities (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
FES
Net exposure to loss based upon the casualty value provisions
Maximum Exposure	$ 1,362
Discounted Lease Payments, net	1,159	[1]
Net Exposure	203
OE
Net exposure to loss based upon the casualty value provisions
Maximum Exposure	606
Discounted Lease Payments, net	416	[1]
Net Exposure	190
CEI
Net exposure to loss based upon the casualty value provisions
Maximum Exposure	587	[2]
Discounted Lease Payments, net	71	[1],[2]
Net Exposure	516	[2]
TE
Net exposure to loss based upon the casualty value provisions
Maximum Exposure	587	[2]
Discounted Lease Payments, net	309	[1],[2]
Net Exposure	$ 278	[2]

[1] The net present value of FirstEnergy’s sale and leaseback operating lease commitments is $1.6 billion

[2] CEI and TE are jointly and severally liable for the maximum loss amounts under certain sale-leaseback agreements