Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Net income (loss)	$ 110,224	$ (506,196)	$ 108,471
Foreign currency translation adjustments	21,382	1,054	(124,304)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax	(1,689)	1,909	(2,930)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on nonderivative hedging instruments	0	(8,866)	15,825
Net hedging loss (gain) reclassified into net income (loss)	0	2,611	7,371
Pension plan benefit liability adjustment	(16,940)	852	(2,179)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	2,753	(2,440)	(106,217)
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	112,977	(508,636)	2,254
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	1,949	3,961	3,701
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(23)	(254)	(113)
Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest	1,926	3,707	3,588
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.	111,051	(512,343)	(1,334)
Parent [Member]
Foreign currency translation adjustments	21,405	1,308	(124,191)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax	(1,689)	1,909	(2,930)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on nonderivative hedging instruments	0	(8,866)	15,825
Net hedging loss (gain) reclassified into net income (loss)	0	2,611	7,371
Pension plan benefit liability adjustment	(16,940)	852	(2,179)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	$ 2,776	$ (2,186)	$ (106,104)