Financial Statement Presentation (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012
Consolidation Disclosure [Abstract]
Proceeds From Sale Of New York Plants	$ 240

Represents proceeds received from the sale of Cayuga and Somerset, two New York plants in the Eastern Energy LP portfolio.

No definition available.

Name:	aes_ProceedsFromSaleOfNewYorkPlants
Namespace Prefix:	aes_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant