Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 52,415	$ (96,581)	$ 60,249
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(510)	(28,841)	54,338
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, designated as cash flow hedges	(1,924)	235	923
Pension benefit obligation adjustment	5,933	(2,779)	(3,588)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(8,367)	(25,827)	58,849
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	44,048	(122,408)	119,098
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax	3,409	2,669	2,951
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.	$ 40,639	$ (125,077)	$ 116,147