Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition [Text Block]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information [Text Block]
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Vectren [Member]
Vectren [Member]
Vectren [Member]
CenterPoint Energy [Member]
CenterPoint Energy [Member]
Another company which is controlled, directly or indirectly, by its parent. The usual condition for control is ownership of a majority (over 50%) of the outstanding voting stock. The power to control may also exist with a lesser percentage of ownership, for example, by contract, lease, agreement with other stockholders or by court decree.
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Pro Forma Adjustment [Member]
Pro Forma [Member]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Vectren acquisition [Member]
Vectren acquisition [Member]
Vectren acquisition [Member]
Utility pipeline construction company [Member]
Utility pipeline construction company [Member]
Utility pipeline construction company [Member]
Period [Axis]
Period [Axis]
Period of the transaction occurred [Axis]
Period [Domain]
Period [Domain]
[Domain] for Period of the transaction occurred [Axis]
Stub period [Member]
Stub period [Member]
Stub period [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Operation and maintenance agreements [Member]
Operation and maintenance agreements [Member]
Operation and maintenance agreements [Member]
Customer Relationships [Member]
Customer Relationships [Member]
Construction Backlog [Member]
Customer Contracts [Member]
Trade Names [Member]
Trade Names [Member]
Operation and maintenance agreements and construction backlog [Member]
Operation and maintenance agreements and construction backlog [Member]
Operation and maintenance agreements and construction backlog [Member]
Customer relationships and trade names [Member]
Customer relationships and trade names [Member]
Customer relationships and trade names [Member]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Non-utility cost of revenues [Member]
Cost of Sales [Member]
Depreciation and amortization expense [Member]
Depreciation and amortization expense [Member]
Depreciation and amortization expense [Member]
Operation and maintenance expense [Member]
Operation And Maintenance Expense Member
Amount of share-based compensation cost reported in the period, allocated to operations and maintenance expense. Operations and maintenance expense are the costs associated with normal operations, including general and administrative expenses, and routine plant maintenance and repairs.
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Total purchase price consideration
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross
Cash to be paid per share of Vectren common stock prior to closing of the Merger
Business Acquisition, Share Price
Dividends declared per share
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Cash payments towards outstanding share-based awards
Cash payments towards outstanding share-based awards
Cash payments towards outstanding share-based awards as a result of the merger close.
Share-based award liability recorded
Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent
Incremental share-based awards expense recorded
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Accelerated Compensation Cost
Severance expense related to the Merger
Severance Costs
Preliminary purchase price allocation [Abstract]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents
Other current assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets
Property, plant and equipment, net
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Identifiable intangibles
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill
Regulatory assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Assets
Other assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets
Total assets acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets
Current liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities
Regulatory liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities
Other liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other
Long-term debt
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt
Total liabilities assumed
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities
Net assets acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Identifiable intangible assets preliminary purchase price allocation [Abstract]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill [Abstract]
Weighted Average Useful Lives
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life
Estimated Fair Value
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Business Combinations, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Business Combination, Separately recognized Transactions, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Revenues
Revenues
Net income (Loss)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Business Combination, Integration Related Costs
Business Combination, Integration Related Costs
Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Operating revenues
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Net income
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Merger-related expenses
Transaction costs associated with the Merger
Costs incurred direct costs of the business combination including legal, accounting, and other costs incurred to consummate the business acquisition.
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Houston Electric [Member]
Houston Electric [Member]
Houston Electric [Member]
CERC Corp [Member]
CERC Corp [Member]
Another company which is controlled, directly or indirectly, by its parent. The usual condition for control is ownership of a majority (over 50%) of the outstanding voting stock. The power to control may also exist with a lesser percentage of ownership, for example, by contract, lease, agreement with other stockholders or by court decree.
Other, net [Member]
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Pension Benefits [Member]
Pension Plan [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost (1)
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost (2)
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets (2)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets
Amortization of prior service cost (2)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Amortization of net loss (2)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss)
Settlement cost (3) (2)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Settlement
Curtailment gain (4) (2)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailment
Net periodic cost (income)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit)
Total contributions expected in current year
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Current Fiscal Year
Total contributions to the plans during the period
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Equity [Abstract]
Equity [Text Block]
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reportable Business Segments [Text Block]
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Hedged Item [Axis]
Hedged Item [Axis]
The asset or liability (or portion thereof) being hedged.
Hedged Item [Domain]
Hedged Item [Domain]
[Domain] for The asset or liability (or portion thereof) being hedged.
Natural gas inventory [Member]
Natural gas inventory [Member]
Natural gas inventory [Member]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Forward Contracts [Member]
Forward Contracts [Member]
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Energy Related Derivative [Member]
Energy Related Derivative [Member]
IDS Derivative [Member]
IDS Derivative [Member]
Derivative instrument related to indexed debt securities
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Carrying Amount [Member]
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value inputs (price per MMBtu)
Fair Value Inputs, Price Per MMBtu
Fair value inputs used for valuing physical forward contracts using a discounted cash flow model, including illiquid forward price curve locations.
Assets
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Corporate equities
Fair Value Assets Measured On Recurring Basis Corporate Equities
This element represents a certain statement of financial position asset caption which represents a class of assets, or which may include an individual asset, measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
Investments, including money market funds (2)
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure
Derivative asset
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Including Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement
Derivative asset, netting adjustment
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability and Obligation to Return Cash, Offset
Derivative assets
Derivative Asset
Hedged portion of natural gas inventory
Fair Value Hedge Assets
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Total derivative assets, netting adjustment
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Liabilities
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative liability
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Including Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement
Derivative liabilities, netting adjustment
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset and Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset
Fair Value Hedge Liabilities
Fair Value Hedge Liabilities
Derivative liabilities
Derivative Liability
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure
Total derivative liabilities, netting adjustment
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Derivative fair value offsets, net
Derivative, Fair Value, Offsets, Net
Total of gross amounts offset, net.
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs
Total gains
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Total settlements
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Settlements
Transfers into Level 3
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers into Level 3
Transfers out of Level 3
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers out of Level 3
Ending balance (1)
The amount of total gains for the period included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date:
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Additional Fair Value Elements [Abstract]
Long-term debt, including current maturities
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Dividends Declared [Table Text Block]
Dividends Declared [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Fair Value Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Fair Value Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Offsetting of Natural Gas Derivative Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instruments, Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of derivative assets and liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including master netting arrangements.
Income Statement Impact of Derivative Activity [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Disclosure of Credit Derivatives [Table Text Block]
Disclosure of Credit Derivatives [Table Text Block]
Leases [Abstract]
Leases [Text Block]
Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block]
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies [Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Cover page.
Entities [Table]
Entities [Table]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value [Member]
Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value [Member]
Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value [Member]
Depositary Shares [Member]
Depositary Shares [Member]
Depositary Shares [Member]
9.15% First Mortgage Bonds Due 2021 [Member]
9.15% First Mortgage Bonds Due 2021 [Member]
9.15% First Mortgage Bonds Due 2021 [Member]
6.95% General Mortgage Bonds Due 2033 [Member]
6.95% General Mortgage Bonds Due 2033 [Member]
6.95% General Mortgage Bonds Due 2033 [Member]
6.625% Senior Notes Due 2037 [Member]
6.625% Senior Notes Due 2037 [Member]
6.625% Senior Notes Due 2037 [Member]
Entity Listings, Exchange [Axis]
Entity Listings, Exchange [Axis]
Exchange [Domain]
Exchange [Domain]
New York Stock Exchange [Member]
New York Stock Exchange [Member]
New York Stock Exchange [Member]
Chicago Stock Exchange [Member]
Chicago Stock Exchange [Member]
Chicago Stock Exchange [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code
Entity Shell Company
Entity Shell Company
Entity Interactive Data Current
Entity Interactive Data Current
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Title of 12(b) Security
Title of 12(b) Security
Security Exchange Name
Security Exchange Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Small Business
Entity Small Business
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Document Quarterly Report
Document Quarterly Report
Document Transition Report
Document Transition Report
Entity File Number
Entity File Number
Entity Tax Identification Number
Entity Tax Identification Number
Entity Address, Address Line One
Entity Address, Address Line One
Entity Address, City or Town
Entity Address, City or Town
Entity Address, State or Province
Entity Address, State or Province
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code
City Area Code
City Area Code
Local Phone Number
Local Phone Number
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Regulatory Accounting [Text Block]
Public Utilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block]
Midstream Investments [Table Text Block]
Midstream Investments [Table Text Block]
Tabular presentation of equity earnings and equity investment related to Midstream Investments for the period [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Current Assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Investment in marketable securities
Marketable Securities, Current
Accounts receivable, less bad debt reserve
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Accounts and notes receivable, less bad debt reserve
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net
Accounts and notes receivable–affiliated companies
Due from Related Parties, Current
Accrued unbilled revenues
Unbilled Receivables, Current
Natural gas inventory
Energy Related Inventory, Natural Gas in Storage
Materials and supplies
Public Utilities, Inventory
Materials and supplies
Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Gross
Non-trading derivative assets
Derivative Asset, Current
Taxes receivable
Income Taxes Receivable, Current
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Property, Plant and Equipment:
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, plant and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Other Assets:
AssetsNoncurrentOtherThanPropertyPlantAndEquipment [Abstract]
AssetsNoncurrentOtherThanPropertyPlantAndEquipment [Abstract]
Goodwill
Regulatory assets
Regulatory Assets, Noncurrent
Non-trading derivative assets
Derivative Asset, Noncurrent
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates
Equity Method Investments
Preferred units – unconsolidated affiliate
Cost Method Investments
Intangible assets, net
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Other
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total other assets
AssetsNoncurrentOtherThanPropertyPlantAndEquipment
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold or consumed after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, excluding property, plant and equipment.
Total Assets
Assets
Current Liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Current portion of VIE Securitization Bonds long-term debt
Transition And System Restoration Bonds Long Term Debt Current
Long-term transition and system restoration bonds are securitization bonds issued to recover qualified stranded costs and qualified storm recovery costs. This represents the current portion.
Indexed debt, net
Indexed Debt Current
Current portion of other long-term debt
Other Long-term Debt, Current
Indexed debt securities derivative
Indexed debt securities derivative
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Accounts and notes payable–affiliated companies
Due to Related Parties, Current
Taxes accrued
Taxes Payable, Current
Interest accrued
Interest Payable, Current
Dividends accrued
Dividends Payable, Current
Customer deposits
Customer Deposits, Current
Non-trading derivative liabilities
Derivative Liability, Current
Other
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Other Liabilities:
Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes, net
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Non-trading derivative liabilities
Derivative Liability, Noncurrent
Benefit obligations
Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Noncurrent
Regulatory liabilities
Regulatory Liability, Noncurrent
Other
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total other liabilities
Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent
Long-term Debt:
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
VIE Securitization Bonds, net
Transition And System Restoration Bonds Long Term Debt Non Current
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of transition and system restoration bond debt (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer), excluding current portion.
Other long-term debt, net
Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent
Total long-term debt, net
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 14)
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders’ Equity:
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Cumulative preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized
Cumulative Preferred Stock
Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet represent total cumulative preferred stock presented in detail within the Shareholder's Equity section.
Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Common stock
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total shareholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities and Equity
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cumulative preferred stock par value (in dollars per share) - Series A
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Cumulative preferred stock shares authorized (in shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock shares par value (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock shares authorized (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock dividends declared per share
Preferred stock dividends declared
Preferred Stock, Dividends Per Share, Declared
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Money Pool Investment and Borrowing [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Money Pool Investment and Borrowing [Table Text Block]
[Table Text Block] for Tabular disclosure the investments and borrowing within the money pool activities.
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Schedule of Subsequent Events [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Subsequent Events [Table Text Block]
Gains (Losses) in Revenue [Member]
Sales [Member]
Non-utility Natural Gas Expense [Member]
Natural Gas Expenses [Member]
Represents natural gas expenses, including transportation and storage costs.
Gains (Losses) in Other Income (Expense) [Member]
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Position [Axis]
Position [Axis]
Position [Domain]
Position [Domain]
Long [Member]
Long [Member]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Economic Hedge [Member]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Economic Hedge [Member]
Designated as Fair Value Hedge [Member]
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Current Assets [Member]
Current Assets [Member]
Line item in the statement of financial position in which the fair value amounts of the derivative instruments are included.
Other Assets [Member]
Other Noncurrent Assets [Member]
Current Liabilities [Member]
Current Liabilities [Member]
Line item in the statement of financial position in which the fair value amounts of the derivative instruments are included.
Other Liabilities [Member]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets Fair Value
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Derivative Liabilities Fair Value
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Derivative gross volume notional amount (in Bcf)
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Volume
Net amount presented in the consolidated balance sheets
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net
Derivative Asset
Cumulative Amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of Hedged Item
Deferred (Gain) Loss on Discontinuation of Fair Value Hedge
Gross Amounts Recognized
Gross Amounts Recognized
Gross Amounts Recognized
Derivative, Fair Value, Net
Gross Amounts Offset
Gross Amounts Offset
Gross Amounts Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
Derivative Liability
Total amounts presented in the statements of income in which the effects of hedges are recorded
Cost of Goods and Services Sold
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on fair value hedging instruments
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Instruments
Amounts excluded from effectiveness testing recognized in earnings immediately
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net
Aggregate fair value of derivatives containing material adverse change provisions in a net liability position
Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value
Fair value of collateral already posted
Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value
Additional collateral required to be posted if credit risk contingent features triggered
Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Non-utility cost of revenues [Member]
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Construction Backlog [Member]
Order or Production Backlog [Member]
Other [Member]
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Indiana Electric Integrated [Member]
Indiana Electric Integrated [Member]
Segment information for the Indiana Electric Integrated reportable segment which consists of electric transmission and distribution services primarily to southwestern Indiana and includes power generation and wholesale power operations
Natural Gas Distribution [Member]
Natural Gas Distribution [Member]
Segment information for the Natural Gas Distribution segment which consists of intrastate natural gas sales to, and natural gas transportation and distribution for, residential, commercial, industrial and institutional customers.
Energy Services [Member]
Energy Services [Member]
Segment information for the Energy Services segment which offers variable and fixed price physical natural gas supplies primarily to commercial and industrial customers and electric and gas utilities.
Infrastructure Services [Member]
Infrastructure Services [Member]
Infrastructure Services [Member]
Corporate and Other [Member]
Corporate and Other [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Accumulated goodwill impairment charge recorded in 2012
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss
Finite-Live Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Intangible assets gross carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Intangible assets accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Net intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
Remaining three months of 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year
2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
2023
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
2024
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Financial Instruments [Domain]
Financial Instruments [Domain]
AT&T Common [Member]
AT&T Common [Member]
Common stock of AT&T Inc.
Charter Common [Member]
Charter Common [Member]
Charter Common [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Subordinated Debt ZENS [Member]
Subordinated Debt ZENS Member
Issued debt obligation as zero-premium exchangeable subordinated notes. Obligation is bifurcated between a debt component and an embedded derivative component. Exchangeable for cash at any time at the option of the holder, and as such are classified as a current portion of long-term debt.
Balance of investment owned (in shares)
Investment Owned, Balance, Shares
Principal amount of debt issued
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Outstanding debt balance
Long-term Debt, Gross
Subordinated note cash exchangeable percentage of fair value
Subordinated Note Cash Exchangeable Percentage Of Fair Value
The percentage of the fair value of the referenced TW Common shares attributable to each note and the percentage of composite fair value each note can be exchanged for cash.
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
TargetAnnualYieldOnReferenceShares
TargetAnnualYieldOnReferenceShares
The target annual yield from interest and cash dividends on reference shares, before any adjustment to increase or decrease principal amount of subordinated note is made.
Number of shares referenced in exchangeable subordinated note
Number Of Shares Referenced In Exchangeable Subordinated Note
Number of shares attributable to each note and referenced in determining the fair value of the cash to be exchange at behest of note holder.
Contingent principal amount outstanding
Debt Instrument Contingent Principal Amount Outstanding
Amount of outstanding contingent principal under the zero premium exchangeable subordinated notes contract contingent principal clause.
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Adjustment to pension and other postretirement plans (net of tax of $-0-, $1, $2 and $2)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax and Reclassification Adjustment, Attributable to Parent
Net deferred gain (loss) from cash flow hedges (net of tax of $-0-, $1, $-0- and $2)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification and Tax, Parent
Reclassification of deferred loss from cash flow hedges realized in net income (net of tax of $-0-, $-0-, $-0- and $-0-)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, after Tax
Other comprehensive loss from unconsolidated affiliates (net of tax of $-0-, $-0-, $-0- and $-0-)
Other comprehensive loss from unconsolidated affiliates, net of tax
Other comprehensive loss from unconsolidated affiliates, net of tax
Total
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Lease, Cost [Table Text Block]
Lease, Cost [Table Text Block]
Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related To Leases [Table Text Block]
Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related To Leases [Table Text Block]
SupplementalBalanceSheetInformationRelatedToLeases [Table Text Block]
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block]
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Maturity [Table Text Block]
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Maturity [Table Text Block]
Other Information Related To Leases [Table Text Block]
Other Information Related To Leases [Table Text Block]
OtherInformationRelatedToLeases [Table Text Block]
Regulatory Agency [Axis]
Regulatory Agency [Axis]
Regulatory Agency [Domain]
Regulatory Agency [Domain]
Public Utility Commission of Texas [Member]
Public Utility Commission of Texas [Member]
Public Utility Commission of Texas [Member]
Public Utilities, Regulatory Proceeding [Axis]
Public Utilities, Regulatory Proceeding [Axis]
Public Utilities, Regulatory Proceeding [Domain]
Public Utilities, Regulatory Proceeding [Domain]
CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric 2019 Rate Case [Member]
CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric 2019 Rate Case [Member]
CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric 2019 Rate Case [Member]
Administrative Law Judge Proposal for Decision [Member]
Administrative Law Judge Proposal for Decision [Member]
Administrative Law Judge Proposal for Decision [Member]
Houston Electric T&D [Member]
Electric Transmission & Distribution [Member]
Segment information for the Electric Transmission & Distribution segment which engages in the electric transmission and distribution business in the Texas Gulf Coast area.
Regulatory Liability [Axis]
Regulatory Liability [Axis]
Regulatory Liability [Domain]
Regulatory Liability [Domain]
Amounts related to TCJA [Member]
Amounts related to TCJA [Member]
Amounts related to TCJA [Member]
Removal Costs [Member]
Removal Costs [Member]
Other Regulatory Assets (Liabilities) [Member]
Other Regulatory Assets (Liabilities) [Member]
Regulatory Asset [Axis]
Regulatory Asset [Axis]
Regulatory Asset [Domain]
Regulatory Asset [Domain]
Asset Retirement Obligation Costs [Member]
Asset Retirement Obligation Costs [Member]
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Costs [Member]
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Costs [Member]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Prepaid expenses and other current assets [Member]
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Other current liabilities [Member]
Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Catastrophic Event [Axis]
Catastrophic Event [Axis]
Catastrophic Event [Domain]
Catastrophic Event [Domain]
Hurricane Harvey [Member]
Hurricane [Member]
Current regulatory assets (1)
Regulatory Assets, Current
Securitized regulatory assets
Securitized Regulatory Transition Assets, Noncurrent
Unrecognized equity return (2)
Unrecognized Equity Return
Represents the balance of the allowed return on equity that has been deferred and recorded on the balance sheet
Unamortized loss on reacquired debt (3)
Unamortized Loss Reacquired Debt, Noncurrent
Other regulatory assets-not earning a return (5)
Remaining Amounts of Regulatory Assets for which No Return on Investment During Recovery Period is Provided
Total regulatory assets
Regulatory Assets
Current regulatory liabilities (6)
Regulatory Liability, Current
Total regulatory liabilities
Regulatory Liabilities
Total regulatory assets and liabilities, net
Net Regulatory Assets
Amount of allowed equity return on the true-up balance that was recognized in the period
Amount Of Allowed Equity Return Recognized In Period
Amount of allowed equity return on the true-up balance that was recognized in the period
Requested revenue increase
Public Utilities, Requested Rate Increase (Decrease), Amount
Rate Base
Public Utilities, Rate Base
Public Utilities, Rate Base
Requested Debt Capital Structure, Percentage
Public Utilities, Requested Debt Capital Structure, Percentage
Requested Equity Capital Structure, Percentage
Public Utilities, Requested Equity Capital Structure, Percentage
Requested Return on Equity, Percentage
Public Utilities, Requested Return on Equity, Percentage
Rate Base disallowance of assets
Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Amount of Disallowed Costs for Recently Completed Plant
Excess deferred income taxes on securitized assets
Excess deferred income taxes on securitized assets
Excess deferred income taxes on securitized assets
First Quarter 2019 [Member]
First Quarter 2019 [Member]
First Quarter 2019 [Member]
Second Quarter 2019 [Member]
Second Quarter 2019 [Member]
Second Quarter 2019 [Member]
Third Quarter 2019 [Member]
Third Quarter 2019 [Member]
Third Quarter 2019 [Member]
First Quarter 2018 [Member]
First Quarter 2018 [Member]
First Quarter 2018 [Member]
Second Quarter 2018 [Member]
Second Quarter 2018 [Member]
Second Quarter 2018 [Member]
Third Quarter 2018 [Member]
Third Quarter 2018 [Member]
Third Quarter 2018 [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Declaration Date
Dividends Payable, Date Declared
Record Date
Dividends Payable, Date of Record
Payment Date
Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid
Dividends paid per share
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Total dividends paid
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Dividends paid per share
Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Total dividends paid
Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash
Preferred stock dividend requirement
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax
Other comprehensive loss from unconsolidated affiliates, net of tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax
Actuarial losses
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax
Reclassification of deferred loss from cash flow hedges realized in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, before Tax
Tax expense
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)
Ending Balance
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Enable Midstream Partners [Member]
Enable Midstream Partners [Member]
Enable Midstream Partners, LP
Partner Type [Axis]
Partner Type [Axis]
Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain]
Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain]
Enable GP, LLC [Member]
Enable GP, LLC [Member]
Enable GP, LLC [Member]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Spinoff [Member]
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Spinoff [Member]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
Transitional Service [Member]
Transitional Service [Member]
Transitional services costs, including the costs of seconded employees.
Natural Gas Expenses [Member]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
Common Units [Member]
Series A Preferred Units [Member]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Proliance Holdings LLC [Member]
Proliance Holdings LLC [Member]
Proliance Holdings LLC [Member]
OGE [Member]
OGE [Member]
OGE [Member]
Public unitholders [Member]
Public unitholders [Member]
Public unitholders [Member]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Series A Preferred Units [Member]
Preferred Stock [Member]
Enable Equity Summary [Abstract]
Enable Equity Summary [Abstract]
Enable Equity Summary [Abstract]
Enable Partnership Interest [Abstract]
Enable Partnership Interest [Abstract]
Enable Partnership Interest [Abstract]
Ownership percentage of equity method investment
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Limited partner ownership interest
Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage
Enable Units [Abstract]
Enable Units [Abstract]
Enable Units [Abstract]
Limited partner interest units held
Equity Method Investment, Ownership, Shares
Equity Method Investment, Ownership, Shares
Limited partner interest units held
Variable Interest Entity, Ownership, Shares
Represents the number of shares owned of the variable interest entity as of the balance sheet date
Preferred Units Held
Preferred Units Held
Represents the number of Series A Preferred Units held as of the balance sheet date.
Carrying value per unit of investment in Enable
Equity Method Investment Carrying Value Per Unit
The carrying value per unit of an equity method investment at the balance sheet date.
Enable's common unit price
Share Price
Amount above carrying value
Equity Method Investment Increase in Carrying Value
Represents the amount above carrying value of an equity method investment as of a specified time.
Amount below carrying value
Equity Method Investment Decrease in Carrying Value
Represents the amount below carrying value of an equity method investment as of a specified time.
Percentage of sales that trigger right of first refusal
Sale of Units, Percentage, Trigger Right of First Refusal
Sale of more than this percentage of aggregated common and subordinated units owned are subject to mutual rights of first offer and first refusal.
Management rights ownership percentage
Management Rights Ownership Percentage
Represents the percentage of management rights in the general partner of Enable
Incentive distribution right
Incentive Distribution Right, Percentage
Entity's interest in incentive distribution rights held by the general partner.
Incentive distribution per unit
Incentive Distribution, Distribution Per Unit
Maximum incentive distribution right
Incentive Distribution Right, Maximum
Maximum additional incentive right to the general partner with quarterly distribution per unit exceeding $0.330625
Enable Distributions [Abstract]
Enable Distributions [Abstract]
Enable Distributions [Abstract]
Distributions received from Enable equity method investment
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution
Distribution per share of common units
Distribution per share of common units
Per share or per unit amount of distributions received from an equity method investment.
Distributions received from Enable cost method investment
Cost Method Investment, Dividends Or Distributions
This item represents disclosure of the amount of dividends or other distributions received from unconsolidated subsidiaries, certain corporate joint ventures, and certain noncontrolled corporation; these investments are accounted for under the cost method of accounting. This element excludes distributions that constitute a return of investment, which are classified as investing activities.
Distribution per share of Series A preferred units
Distribution per share of Series A preferred units
Per share or per unit amount of distributions received from Enable Series A preferred units cost method investment.
Total distributions received from Enable
Total distributions received from Enable
Represents the total amount of distributions received related to both equity method investments and cost method investments from Enable.
Transactions with Enable [Abstract]
Transactions with Enable [Abstract]
Transactions with Enable [Abstract]
Natural gas expenses, including transportation and storage costs (1)
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party
Reimbursement of support services (2)
Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party
Accounts payable for natural gas purchases from Enable
Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current
Accounts receivable for amounts billed for services provided to Enable
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Operating revenues
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue
Cost of sales, excluding depreciation and amortization
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cost of Sales
Depreciation and amortization
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Depreciation And Amortization
The amount of the depreciation and amortization reported by an equity method investment of the entity.
Operating income
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income (Loss)
The amount of operating income (loss) reported by an equity method investment of the entity.
Net income attributable to Enable common units
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)
CenterPoint Energy’s interest
Equity Method Investment, Gross Equity In Earnings (Losses)
This represents the gross equity in earnings (losses) of equity method investment, excluding any basis difference.
Basis difference amortization (1)
Basis Difference Accretion Gain
Basis Difference Accretion Gain
Loss on dilution, net of proportional basis difference recognition
Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate, net
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets [Abstract]
Current assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets
Non-current assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets
Current liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities
Non-controlling interest
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncontrolling Interest
Preferred equity
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Preferred Equity
Amount of preferred equity attributable to the equity method investment of the entity.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss
EquityMethodInvestmentSummarizedFinancialInformationAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
Enable partners’ equity
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Equity Excluding Noncontrolling Interests
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity [Abstract]
CenterPoint Energy’s ownership interest in Enable partners’ equity
Equity Method Investment, Underlying Equity in Net Assets
CenterPoint Energy’s basis difference
Equity Method Investment, Basis Difference
This represents the basis difference of an equity method investment.
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation Disclosures [Abstract]
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation Disclosures [Abstract]
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate, net
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax
Income tax expense
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax of $-0-, $13, $-0- and $44, respectively)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Long term Debt Excluding ZENS [Member]
Long term Debt Excluding ZENS [Member]
Represents balances related to long-term debt excluding ZENS
General Mortgage Bonds Due 2049 [Member]
General Mortgage Bonds Due 2049 [Member]
General Mortgage Bonds Due 2049 [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Variable term rate loan 2 [Member]
Variable term rate loan 2 [Member]
Variable term rate loan 2 [Member]
First Mortgage Bonds [Member]
First Mortgage Bonds [Member]
First Mortgage Bonds [Member]
Commercial Paper [Member]
Commercial Paper [Member]
Senior Notes Due Range 2 [Member]
Senior Notes Due Range 2 [Member]
Senior Notes Due Range 2 [Member]
Variable rate term loan [Member]
Variable rate term loan [Member]
Variable rate term loan [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2024 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2024 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2024 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2049 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2049 [Member]
Senior Notes Due 2049 [Member]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Line of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit [Member]
Letter of Credit [Member]
Letter of Credit [Member]
VUHI [Member]
VUHI [Member]
VUHI [Member]
Indiana Gas [Member]
Indiana Gas [Member]
Indiana Gas [Member]
VCC [Member]
VCC [Member]
Vectren Capital Corp
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Parent Company [Member]
Parent Company [Member]
SIGECO [Member]
SIGECO [Member]
SIGECO [Member]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instruments [Abstract]
Debt Instruments [Abstract]
Interest rate of debt
General mortgage bonds used as collateral
General mortgage bonds used as collateral
General mortgage bonds used as collateral
Acquired Long-term Debt [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract]
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Gross, Noncurrent
Amount of long-term debt, noncurrent portion, before deduction of unamortized discount or premium. Includes, but is not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, with initial maturities beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer.
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt
Intercompany notes payable established as a result of the merger
Notes Payable, Related Parties, Noncurrent
Accrued interest expense
Interest Expense, Related Party
Commercial paper issued in connection with the Merger
Commercial paper issued in connection with the Merger
Amount of commercial paper issued to fund a portion of the Merger and various other Merger-related costs.
Basis spread on LIBOR
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Number of days until commercial paper maturity
Number of days until commercial paper maturity
Number of days until commercial paper maturity.
Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract]
Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract]
Remaining three months of 2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year
2020
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
2021
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
2022
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
2023
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
2024
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
2025 and thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]
Size of credit facility
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Long-term line of credit
Long-term Line of Credit
Weighted average interest rate of debt
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Percentage on limitation of debt to total capitalization under covenant
Percentage on limitation of debt to total capitalization under covenant (in hundredths)
Percentage on limitation of debt to total capitalization under covenant.
Percentage on limitation of debt to total capitalization under covenant amended (in hundredths)
Percentage on limitation of debt to total capitalization under covenant amended (in hundredths)
Temporary increased percentage on limitation of debt to total capitalization under covenant (in hundredths)
Ratio of indebtedness to net capital
Ratio of Indebtedness to Net Capital
System restoration costs threshold for increase in permitted debt to EBITDA covenant ratio
Restoration Cost Expected Cost
The minimum amount of estimated restoration cost in a calendar year in order for a temporary increase in debt to EBITDA covenant
Consecutive period for system restoration costs to exceed $100 million (in months)
Consecutive Period for System Restoration Costs to Exceed $100 million (in months)
Consecutive Period for System Restoration Costs to Exceed $100 million (in months)
Credit facility swing line sublimit
Credit facility swing line sublimit
Credit facility swing line sublimit.
Letters of credit swing line sublimit
Letters of credit swing line sublimit
Letters of credit swing line sublimit
Operating Activities [Axis]
Operating Activities [Axis]
Operating Activities [Domain]
Operating Activities [Domain]
Continuing Operations [Member]
Continuing Operations [Member]
Discontinued Operations [Member]
Discontinued Operations [Member]
Effective income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Federal statutory tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
Net uncertain tax liability
Liability for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, Noncurrent
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Amount_Allowed_equity_return_recognized_in_period [Table Text Block]
Schedule of allowed equity return recognized [Table Text Block]
[Table Text Block] Schedule of allowed equity return recognized[Table]
Related Party Transactions (Houston Electric and CERC) [Text Block]
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Income tax expense associated with discontinued operations
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Preferred Units by Name [Axis]
Preferred Units by Name [Axis]
Preferred Units, Class [Domain]
Preferred Units, Class [Domain]
Series A Preferred Units [Member]
Series A Preferred Units [Member]
Series A Preferred Units [Member]
Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis]
Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis]
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain]
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain]
Common Units [Member]
Common Units [Member]
Common Units [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Dividends payable, date declared
Dividends payable, date of record
Dividends payable, date to be paid
Quarterly cash distribution, declaration date
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Declaration Date
Quarterly cash distribution, date of record
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Date of Record
Quarterly cash distribution, distribution date
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distribution Date
Quarterly cash distribution declared per share
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit
Expected cash distribution from equity method investment
Expected cash distribution from cost method investment
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Background and Basis of Presentation [Text Block]
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Tax benefit (expense) on adjustment related to pension and postretirement plans
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax, Attributable to Parent
Tax expense (benefit) on net deferred gain (loss) from cash flow hedges
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification, Tax
Tax expense (benefit) on reclassification of deferred (gain) loss from cash flow hedges realized in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax
Tax benefit (expense) on Other comprehensive loss from unconsolidated affiliates
Tax benefit (expense) on Other Comprehensive lncome (loss) from unconsolidated affiliates
Tax benefit (expense) on Other Comprehensive lncome (loss) from unconsolidated affiliates
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Unconsolidated Affiliate (CenterPoint Energy and CERC) [Text Block]
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Net income
Less: Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
Income from continuing operations
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Amortization of deferred financing costs
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs
Amortization of intangible assets in non-utility cost of revenues
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Unrealized gain on marketable securities
Marketable Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss), Excluding Other-than-temporary Impairment Loss
Loss on indexed debt securities
Indexed Debt Securities, Gain (Loss)
This item represents the net total realized and unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings for the period related to indexed debt securities.
Write-down of natural gas inventory
Inventory Write-down
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, net of distributions
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions
Pension contributions
Payment for Pension Benefits
Changes in other assets and liabilities, excluding acquisitions:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Accounts receivable and unbilled revenues, net
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables
Accounts receivable/payable–affiliated companies
Increase decrease in Accounts receivable payable affiliates
The increase (decrease) in net accounts receivables and payables due to/from affiliates.
Inventory
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Taxes receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Receivable
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Fuel cost recovery
Increase (Decrease) in over (under) Energy Recovery
Non-trading derivatives, net
Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities
Margin deposits, net
Increase (Decrease) in Margin Deposits Outstanding
Interest and taxes accrued
Increase Decrease Interest and taxes accrued
Increase (decrease) in interest and taxes accrued.
Net regulatory assets and liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
Other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets
Other current liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Liabilities
Other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets
Other liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities
Other operating activities, net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash provided by operating activities from discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Capital expenditures
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Distributions from unconsolidated affiliate in excess of cumulative earnings
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities
Increase in notes receivable–affiliated companies
Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivable, Related Parties
Other investing activities, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash provided by investing activities from discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Decrease in short-term borrowings, net
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt
Proceeds from (payments of) commercial paper, net
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Commercial Paper
Proceeds from long-term debt, net
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Payments of long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Increase (decrease) in notes payable–affiliated companies
Increase (Decrease) in Notes Payable, Related Parties
Dividend to parent
Payments of Dividends
Contribution from parent
Proceeds from Contributions from Parent
Debt issuance costs
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs
Payment of dividends on Common Stock
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Payment of dividends on Preferred Stock
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Preferred Stock and Preference Stock
Proceeds from issuance of Series A Preferred Stock, net
Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock
Distribution to ZENS note holders
Distribution To ZENS Holders
This represents a distribution to ZENS holders during the period in accordance with the terms of the ZENS.
Other financing activities, net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash provided by financing activities from discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Exchange Rate Effect
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at Beginning of Period
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at End of Period
Mergers and Acquisitions (CenterPoint Energy) [Text Block]
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Short-term Borrowings and Long-term Debt [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair value, assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Estimated fair value of financial instruments, debt instruments [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Restricted Stock [Member]
Restricted Stock [Member]
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact
Numerator:
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]
Income available to common shareholders - basic
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
Preferred stock dividend requirement
Preferred Stock Dividends and Other Adjustments
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted
Denominator:
Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract]
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Restricted stock
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Series B Preferred Stock (1)
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Preferred Stock
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Earnings per common share:
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Basic earnings per common share
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted earnings per common share
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Amount of antidilutive shares excluded from computation of earnings per share
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Minnehaha Academy Gas Explosion [Member]
Damage from Fire, Explosion or Other Hazard [Member]
Environmental Remediation Site [Axis]
Environmental Remediation Site [Axis]
Environmental Remediation Site [Domain]
Environmental Remediation Site [Domain]
Minnesota Service Territory [Member]
Minnesota Service Territory [Member]
Represents the areas in Minnesota serviced by CERC
Indiana Gas Service Territory [Member]
Indiana Gas Service Territory [Member]
Represents the areas in Indiana serviced by Indiana Gas Service
Purchase Obligations
Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Remaining three months of 2019
Purchase Obligation, Future Minimum Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year
2020
Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
2021
Purchase Obligation, Due in Second Year
2022
Purchase Obligation, Due in Third Year
2023
Purchase Obligation, Due in Fourth Year
2024
Purchase Obligation, Due in Fifth Year
2025 and beyond
Purchase Obligation, Due after Fifth Year
Performance Guarantees & Product Warranties [Abstract]
Performance Guarantees & Product Warranties [Abstract]
Performance Guarantees & Product Warranties [Abstract]
Number of surety bond obligations outstanding
Number of surety bond obligations outstanding
Represents the absolute number of surety bonds the wholly owned subsidiary has outstanding in its role as general contractor
Performance guarantee obligations outstanding face amount
Performance guarantee obligations outstanding face amount
Face amount of individual surety bonds the wholly-owned subsidiary has outstanding
Percentage of work yet to be completed on projects with open surety bonds
Percentage of work yet to be completed on projects with open surety bonds
Percentage of work yet to be completed by wholly owned subsidiary on projects with open surety bonds.
Guarantor obligations, maximum exposure, undiscounted
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted
Legal, Environmental and Other Matters
Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract]
Contested amount of fines imposed
ContestedAmountOfFinesImposed
Contested amount of fines imposed by the Minnesota Office of Pipeline Safety.
Liability recorded for environmental loss contingencies
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies
Estimated remediation costs for the Minnesota sites
Site Contingency Loss Exposure
Estimate of the reasonably possible loss exposure at an individual site.
Years to resolve contingency
Site Contingency, Years to Resolve Contingency
This represents the estimated years necessary to resolve the contingency.
Environmental remediation number of sites with potential remedial responsibility
Environmental remediation number of sites with potential remedial responsibility
Number of sites identified where the entity may potentially have some remedial responsibility
Asset retirement obligation
Asset Retirement Obligation
Estimated capital expenditure to clean ash ponds
Estimated capital expenditure to clean ash ponds
Estimated Capital Expenditure to Clean Ash Ponds
Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block]
Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block]
Principles of Consolidation [Policy Text Block]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Product Warranties, Performance Guarantees & Other Guarantees [Policy Text Block]
Guarantees, Indemnifications and Warranties Policies [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes [Policy Text Block]
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
MISO Transactions [Policy Text Block]
MISO Transactions [Policy Text Block]
With the IURC's approval, the Company is a member of the MISO, a FERC approved regional transmission organization. The MISO serves the electrical transmission needs of much of the Midwest and maintains operational control over the Company's electric transmission facilities as well as that of other Midwest utilities. MISO-related purchase and sale transactions are accounted for on a net hourly position. Net Purchases are recorded in Cost of Fuel and Purchased Power, and net sales are recorded in Electric Utility Revenues. Any revenues received from MISO for transactions not specifically assigned to a unit of power, such as use of the transmission system or other administrative amounts, are reflected in Electric Utility revenues. Any expenses incurred within the MISO market by the Company that are not specifically identified with a unit of power purchased, such as socialized administrative costs, are treated as Other Operating expense.
Fair Value Measurements [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Amount of cash to be paid to acquire Vectren
Number of states in which entity operates
Number of States in which Entity Operates
Preferred units held
Contract Balances [Table]
Contract Balances [Table]
Contract Balances [Table]
Contract Balances [Line Items]
Contract Balances [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Contract Balances [Table]
Change in Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Change in Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Change in Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Opening balance as of December 31, 2018 (1)
Accounts Receivable for Contracts with Customers
Accounts Receivable for Contracts with Customers
Closing balance as of September 30, 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable on Contracts with Customers
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable on Contracts with Customers
Change in Other Accrued Unbilled Revenues [Roll Forward]
Change in Other Accrued Unbilled Revenues [Roll Forward]
Change in Other Accrued Unbilled Revenues [Roll Forward]
Opening balance as of December 31, 2018 (1)
Unbilled Contracts Receivable
Closing balance as of September 30, 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Unbilled Revenues
Increase (Decrease) in Unbilled Receivables
Change in Contract Asset [Roll Forward]
Change in Contract Asset [Roll Forward]
Change in Contract Asset [Roll Forward]
Opening balance as of December 31, 2018 (1)
Contract with Customer, Asset, Net, Current
Closing balance as of September 30, 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Asset
Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Asset
Change in Contract Liability [Roll Forward]
Change in Contract Liability [Roll Forward]
Change in Contract Liability [Roll Forward]
Opening balance as of December 31, 2018 (1)
Contract with Customer, Liability
Closing balance as of September 30, 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Liability
Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Liability
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements [Text Block]
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block]
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table Text Block]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table Text Block]
Goodwill and Other Intangibles (CenterPoint Energy and CERC) [Text Block]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain]
Reportable Subsegments [Member]
Reportable Subsegments [Member]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue from contracts
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax
Derivatives income (loss)
Derivative Income Loss
Revenue derived from derivative natural gas sales contracts, asset management agreements and gains (losses) associated with weather hedge derivatives.
Other
Other Revenue Excluding Assessed Tax
Amount, excluding tax collected from customer, of alternative revenue programs and leases revenue from satisfaction of performance obligation by transferring promised good or service to customer. Tax collected from customer is tax assessed by governmental authority that is both imposed on and concurrent with specific revenue-producing transaction, including, but not limited to, sales, use, value added and excise.
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Operating Segments [Member]
Operating Segments [Member]
Reporting Segment [Domain]
Midstream Investments [Member]
Midstream Investments [Member]
Midstream Investments [Member]
Major Customers [Axis]
Customer [Axis]
Name of Major Customer [Domain]
Customer [Domain]
Affiliates of NRG Energy, Inc. [Member]
Affiliates of NRG Energy, Inc. [Member]
Affiliates of NRG Energy, Inc. [Member]
Affiliates of Vistra Energy Corp. [Member]
Affiliates of Vistra Energy Corp. [Member]
Affiliates of Vistra Energy Corp. [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)
Operating Income (Loss)
Equity in earnings from investment in Enable
Assets
Short-term Investments
Short-term Investments
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table Text Block]
Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions [Table Text Block]
Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions [Table Text Block]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Indexed Debt Securities and Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Indexed Debt Securities and Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Indexed Debt Securities and Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Weather Hedge Term [Axis]
Weather Hedge Term [Axis]
Represents the term of the weather hedges
Weather Hedge Term [Domain]
Weather Hedge Term [Domain]
[Domain] for Represents the term of the weather hedges
2018 to 2019 [Member]
2018 to 2019 [Member]
2018 to 2019 [Member]
2017to2018 [Member]
2017to2018 [Member]
2017to2018 [Member]
Weather Hedge Swaps [Member]
Weather Hedge Swaps [Member]
Heating-degree day swaps to mitigate the effect of fluctuations from normal weather for the winter heating season.
Aggregate notional amount
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount
Weather hedges term
Weather Hedges Term
Period of time used as the basis for weather hedges entered into by the company.
Weather hedge bilateral cap amount
Weather Hedge, Bilateral Cap Amount
Represents amount of bilateral cap related to weather hedges.
Recognized gain (loss) on weather hedges
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net
Cumulative Preferred Stock [Member]
Cumulative Preferred Stock [Member]
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Bad debt reserve
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Preferred stock par value (in dollars per share)
Cumulative preferred stock authorized (in shares)
Preferred stock aggregate liquidation preference
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value
Preferred stock outstanding (in shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Common stock par value (in dollars per share)
Common stock authorized (in shares)
Common stock outstanding (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Revenues:
Revenues [Abstract]
Utility revenues
Regulated Operating Revenue
Non-utility revenues
Unregulated Operating Revenue
Total
Expenses:
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Utility natural gas, fuel and purchased power
Utilities Operating Expense, Gas and Petroleum Purchased
Non-utility cost of revenues, including natural gas
Operation and maintenance
Utilities Operating Expense, Maintenance, Operations, and Other Costs and Expenses
Taxes other than income taxes
Taxes, Miscellaneous
Total
Costs and Expenses
Operating Income (Loss)
Other Income (Expense):
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Gain on marketable securities
Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss)
Loss on indexed debt securities
Gain (loss) on Indexed Debt Securities
This item represents the net total realized and unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings for the period related to indexed debt securities.
Interest and other finance charges
Interest and Debt Expense
Interest on Securitization Bonds
Interest on Transition and System Restoration Bonds
Interest and debt related expenses associated with transition and system restoration bonds.
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, net
Other income (expense), net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Total
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income tax expense (benefit)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations
Net Income
Income Available to Common Shareholders
Basic Earnings Per Common Share
Diluted Earnings Per Common Share
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding, Basic
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Income Taxes [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Subsequent Events (CenterPoint Energy) [Text Block]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Indexed Debt Securities (ZENS) and Securities Related to ZENS (CenterPoint Energy) [Text Block]
Indexed Debt Securities [Text Block]
This item represents the entire disclosure related to Indexed Debt Securities (ZENS) and Time Warner Securities.
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Accounts and notes receivable (payable) - affiliate companies [Member]
Accounts and notes receivable (payable) - affiliate companies [Member]
Accounts and notes receivable (payable) - affiliate companies [Member]
Investments [Member]
Investments [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Money pool investments (borrowings) (1)
MoneyPoolInvestments
Represents investments in the parent company's money pool.
Money Pool Borrowings
MoneyPoolBorrowings
Represents borrowings from the parent company's money pool.
Weighted average interest rate
Money Pool Investments Weighted Average Interest Rate
Weighted average interest rate of outstanding investments in money pool.
Interest income (expense) (1)
Interest Income (Expense) Net, Related Party
Net interest income (expense) related to affiliate investments or borrowings
Corporate service charges
Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party
Net affiliate service charges (billings)
Net affiliate service charges (billings)
Amount of net service charges from (billings to) related party during the period, excluding transactions that are eliminated in consolidated or combined financial statements.
Cash dividends paid to parent
Cash contribution from parent
Capital distribution to parent associated with the Internal Spin
Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Value of Consideration Given
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Benefit Plan Contributions [Table Text Block]
Benefit Plan Contributions [Table Text Block]
Benefit Plan Contributions [Table Text Block]
Earnings Per Share (CenterPoint Energy) [Text Block]
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Lease Disclosure [Table]
Lease Disclosure [Table]
Lease Disclosure [Table]
Lease Disclosure [Line Items]
Lease Disclosure [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Lease Disclosure [Table]
Lease, Cost [Abstract]
Lease, Cost [Abstract]
Operating lease cost
Operating Lease, Cost
Short-term lease cost
Short-term Lease, Cost
Variable lease cost
Variable Lease, Cost
Total lease cost
Lease, Cost
Assets and Liabilities, Lessee [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities, Lessee [Abstract]
Operating ROU assets (1)
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset
Lease Right-Of-Use Asset
Lease Right-Of-Use Asset
Total Leased Right-Of-Use-Assets
Current operating lease liability (2)
Operating Lease, Liability, Current
Non-current operating lease liability (3)
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years) - operating leases
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent
Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due [Abstract]
Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due [Abstract]
Remaining three months of 2019
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year
2020
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months
2021
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two
2022
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three
2023
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four
2024
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five
2025 and beyond
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five
Total lease payments
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due
Less: Interest
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount
Present value of lease liabilities
Operating Lease, Liability
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Next Twelve Months
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Next Twelve Months
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Two Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Two Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Three Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Three Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Four Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Four Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Five Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Five Years
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Thereafter
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Thereafter
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received
Other Information Related to Leases [Abstract]
Other Information Related to Leases [Abstract]
Other Information Related to Leases [Abstract]
Lessee Operating Lease Not Yet Commenced
Lessee Operating Lease Not Yet Commenced
Lessee, Undiscounted minimum lease payments for operating leases signed but not yet commenced
Operating Lease, Payments
Operating Lease, Payments
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]
Discontinued Operations (CERC) [Table Text Block]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Domain]
Product and Service [Domain]
Operations and Maintenance and Other [Member]
Operations and Maintenance and Other [Member]
Operations and Maintenance from ESG and fixed price contracts from Infrastructure Services
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Environmental Loss Contingencies by Site [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Environmental Loss Contingencies by Site [Table Text Block]
Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Other [Member]
Interest, net of capitalized interest
Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities
Income taxes, net
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Accounts payable related to capital expenditures
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities (1)
Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability
Restricted cash
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in Condensed Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows
Preferred Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings [Member]
Retained Earnings [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues
Balance, end of period
Balance, beginning of period
Issuances related to benefit and investment plans
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Balance, end of period
Balance, beginning of period
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues
Issuances related to benefit and investment plans
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Value of Consideration Given
Contribution From Parent
Contribution From Parent
Contribution From Parent
Other
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash
Dividend to parent
Dividends, Cash
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Balance, end of period