Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 26,854	$ (8,902)	$ 57,875	$ 22,384
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	14,930	9,184	50,393	10,910
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, designated as cash flow hedges	126	542	187	(3,190)
Pension benefit obligation adjustment	410	(1,198)	1,004	(1,807)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	15,466	8,528	51,584	5,913
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	42,320	(374)	109,459	28,297
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax	1,278	983	2,357	2,263
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.	$ 41,042	$ (1,357)	$ 107,102	$ 26,034