Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 19,787	$ 26,854	$ (121,710)	$ 57,875
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(678)	14,930	(18,538)	50,393
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, designated as cash flow hedges	908	126	2,563	187
Pension benefit obligation adjustment	392	410	1,207	1,004
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	622	15,466	(14,768)	51,584
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	20,409	42,320	(136,478)	109,459
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax	(95)	1,278	1,417	2,357
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.	$ 20,504	$ 41,042	$ (137,895)	$ 107,102