Income Statement [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Revenue Revenue, Net Cost of revenue Cost of Revenue Gross margin Gross Profit Operating expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Research and development Research and Development Expense Sales, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other income (expense), net: Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Interest income Interest Income, Other Interest expense Interest Expense Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other expense, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income (loss) before income taxes and equity in earnings of unconsolidated investees Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Benefit from (provision for) income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Equity in earnings of unconsolidated investees Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income (loss) per share attributable to stockholders: Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted-average shares: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Class of Warrant or Right [Axis] Class of Warrant or Right [Axis] Class of Warrant or Right [Domain] Class of Warrant or Right [Domain] Upfront Warrants (held by Total) [Member] Upfront Warrants (held by Total) [Member] Upfront Warrants (held by Total) [Member] Warrants (Under the CSO2015) [Member] Warrants (Under the CSO2015) [Member] Warrants (Under the CSO2015) [Member] Warrant (Under the CSO2014) [Member] Warrant (Under the CSO2014) [Member] Warrant (Under the CSO2014) [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 4.50% debentures due 2015 [Member] 4.50% debentures due 2015 [Member] 4.50% debentures due 2015 [Member] 0.875% debentures due 2021 [Member] 0.875% debentures due 2021 [Member] 0.875% debentures due 2021 0.75% debentures due 2018 [Member] 0.75% debentures due 2018 [Member] 0.75% debentures due 2018 [Member] 4.75% debentures due 2014 [Member] 4.75% debentures due 2014 [Member] 4.75% debentures due 2014 [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Bond Hedge [Member] Bond Hedge [Member] Bond Hedge [Member] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted [Abstract] Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted [Abstract] Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders Interest on Convertible Debt, Net of Tax Interest on Convertible Debt, Net of Tax Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Upfront Warrants (held by Total) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Call Options and Warrants Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities Diluted weighted-average common shares Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Foreign Currency Derivatives [Abstract] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of derivative and other financial assets and liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including master netting arrangements. Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract] Accounts Receivable Trade [Table Text Block] Accounts Receivable Trade [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for Accounts Receivable Trade [Table] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block] Investments In Power And Distribution Projects [Table Text Block] Investments In Power And Distribution Projects [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of investments in power and distribution projects that are expected to be realized. Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Table Text Block] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Leases [Abstract] Solar power systems leased and to be leased [Abstract] Solar power systems leased and to be leased [Abstract] Solar power systems leased and to be leased [Abstract] Solar power systems leased, gross Solar power systems leased, gross Solar power systems leased to residential customers under operating leases, gross of accumulated depreciation. Solar power systems to be leased, gross Solar power systems to be leased, gross Solar power systems to be leased to residential customers under operating leases, gross of accumulated depreciation. Solar Power Systems Leased And To Be Leased, Gross Solar Power Systems Leased And To Be Leased, Gross Solar power systems leased and to be leased to residential customers under operating leases, gross of accumulated depreciation. Accumulated depreciation - residential lease Accumulated depreciation - residential lease Amount of accumulated depreciation for solar power systems used in the residential leasing operations Solar Power Systems Leased And To Be Leased, Net Solar Power Systems Leased And To Be Leased, Net Solar power systems leased to residential customers under operating leases, net of accumulated depreciation. Pledged Solar Assets, book value Pledged Solar Assets, book value Book value of pledged solar assets to the third-party investors as security for its obligations under the contractual arrangements. Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract] 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable Financing receivables: Financing Receivable, Net [Abstract] Financing Receivable, Gross Financing Receivable, Gross Unguaranteed residual value Capital Leases, Net Investment in Sales Type Leases, Unguaranteed Residual Values of Leased Property Unearned Income Unearned Income The difference of the rental receivables and the cost of the asset less estimated residual value at the end of the lease term Financing Receivable, Net Financing Receivable, Net Current Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Current Long-term Capital Leases, Lessor Balance Sheet, Net Investment in Direct Financing and Sales Type Leases, Noncurrent Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2014 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Next Twelve Months 2015 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Receivable in Two Years 2016 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Receivable in Three Years 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Receivable in Four Years 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Receivable in Five Years Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Receivable Due Thereafter Third-Party Financing Arrangements [Abstract] Third-Party Financing Arrangements [Abstract] Third-Party Financing Arrangements [Abstract] Non-Recourse Debt Non-Recourse Debt Contributions from noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests Sale-Leaseback [Abstract] Sale-Leaseback [Abstract] Sale-Leaseback [Abstract] Sale Leaseback, Minimum Lease Obligation (Non-Integral Equipment) Sale Leaseback, Minimum Lease Obligation (Non-Integral Equipment) Amount of minimum lease payments for sale-leaseback transactions accounted for as operating leases. Lease Term - Sale Leaseback (Non-integral Equipment) Lease Term - Sale Leaseback (Non-integral Equipment) A description of the terms of the lease(s) related to the assets being leased-back in connection with the transaction involving the sale of property to another party and the lease of the property back to the seller. (Non-integral Equipment) Sale Leaseback, Minimum Lease Obligation (Integral Equipment) Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions Lease Term - Sale Leaseback (Integral Equipment) Lease Term - Sale Leaseback (Integral Equipment) A description of the terms of the lease(s) related to the assets being leased-back in connection with the transaction involving the sale of property to another party and the lease of the property back to the seller. (Integral Equipment) Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Total [Member] Total [Member] Total [Member] 0.75% debentures due 2015 [Member] 0.75% debentures due 2015 [Member] 0.75% debentures due 2015 [Member] IFC Mortgage Loan [Member] IFC Mortgage Loan [Member] IFC Mortgage Loan [Member] CEDA Loan [Member] CEDA Loan [Member] CEDA Loan [Member] September 2011 Credit Agricole Syndicated Revolver [Member] September 2011 Credit Agricole Syndicated Revolver [Member] September 2011 Credit Agricole Syndicated Revolver [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] July 2013 Credit Agricole Syndicated Revolver [Member] July 2013 Credit Agricole Syndicated Revolver [Member] July 2013 Credit Agricole Syndicated Revolver [Member] August 2011 Letter of Credit [Member] August 2011 Letter of Credit [Member] August 2011 Letter of Credit [Member] September 2011 Letter of Credit [Member] September 2011 Letter of Credit [Member] September 2011 Letter of Credit [Member] Cash Conversion Option [Member] Cash Conversion Option [Member] Cash Conversion Option [Member] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Credit Agricole [Member] Credit Agricole [Member] Credit Agricole [Member] Deutsche Bank [Member] Deutsche Bank [Member] Deutsche Bank [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Borrowing Fee, Percent of Principal Debt Instrument, Borrowing Fee, Percent of Principal Debt Instrument, Borrowing Fee, Percent of Principal Debt Instrument, Commitment Fee Debt Instrument, Commitment Fee Debt Instrument, Commitment Fee Debt Instrument, Prepayment Premium Debt Instrument, Prepayment Premium Debt Instrument, Prepayment Premium Debt Instrument, Face Value Debt Instrument, Face Amount Short-term Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Line of Credit Facility [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Liquidity Support Facility, Maximum Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread Line of Credit Facilty, Basis Spread on Base Loan Rate Line of Credit Facilty, Basis Spread on Base Loan Rate Line of Credit Facilty, Basis Spread on Base Loan Rate Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Federal Funds Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Federal Funds Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Federal Funds Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Base Loan, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Base Loan, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Base Loan, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Federal Funds Rate, Period Two Line of Credit, Basis Spread on Federal Funds Rate, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Federal Funds Rate, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Libor Rate, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Libor Rate, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread on Libor Rate, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage, Period Two Proceeds from issuance of non-recourse debt financing, net of issuance costs Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread, Period Two Line of Credit Facility, Basis Spread, Period Two Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2013. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2013. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2013. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2014. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2014. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2014. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2015. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2015. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2015. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2016. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2016. Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, in 2016. Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Convertible Debt [Abstract] Convertible Debt, Current Convertible Debt, Current Convertible Debt, Noncurrent Convertible Debt, Noncurrent Debt Instrument, Face Value Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Own-share Lending Arrangement [Abstract] Exercise price Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Strike Price Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Indexed Shares Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Indexed Shares Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Carrying Value Debt Instruments, Carrying Value Carrying value of debt instrument. Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Costs and Estimated Earnings in Excess of Billings [Member] Costs and Estimated Earnings in Excess of Billings [Member] Costs and Estimated Earnings in Excess of Billings [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Research and Development Expense [Member] Research and Development Expense [Member] Sales [Member] Sales [Member] Tender Offer Agreement [Member] Tender Offer Agreement [Member] Tender Offer Agreement [Member] Private Placement [Member] Private Placement [Member] Liquidity Support Facility [Member] Liquidity Support Facility [Member] Liquidity Support Facility [Member] Credit Support Agreement [Member] Credit Support Agreement [Member] Credit Support Agreement [Member] Compensation and Funding Agreement [Member] Compensation and Funding Agreement [Member] Compensation and Funding Agreement [Member] Sale of Stock, Consideration Received Per Transaction Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Sale of Stock, Consideration Received Per Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Line of Credit Facility, Other Fee, Rate Line of Credit Facility, Other Fee, Rate Line of Credit Facility, Other Fee, Rate Class of Warrant or Right, Term Class of Warrant or Right, Term Class of Warrant or Right, Term Liquidity Support Facility, Warrant, Minimum Amount of Outstanding Convertible Debt Required to be Outstanding Liquidity Support Facility, Warrant, Minimum Amount of Outstanding Convertible Debt Required to be Outstanding Liquidity Support Facility, Warrant, Minimum Amount of Outstanding Convertible Debt Required to be Outstanding Liquidity Support Facility, Warrant, Maximum Ownership Percentage Allowed Liquidity Support Facility, Warrant, Maximum Ownership Percentage Allowed Liquidity Support Facility, Warrant, Maximum Ownership Percentage Allowed Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings Due from Related Parties Revenue from Related Parties Revenue from Related Parties Proceeds from Collaborators Proceeds from Collaborators Interest Expense, Related Party Interest Expense, Related Party Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee Severance [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Legacy Restructuring Plans [Member] Legacy Restructuring Plans [Member] Legacy Restructuring Plans [Member] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Abstract] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve, beginning Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Charges (Benefits) Payments for Restructuring Payments for Restructuring Restructuring Reserve, end Restructuring Charges [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Capital Lease Obligations Capital Lease Obligations Leases, Operating [Abstract] Leases, Operating [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2014 Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 2015 Purchase Obligation, Due in Second Year 2016 Purchase Obligation, Due in Third Year 2017 Purchase Obligation, Due in Fourth Year 2018 Purchase Obligation, Due in Fifth Year Thereafter Purchase Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Total Purchase Obligation Total obligations related to non-cancellable purchase orders Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Long-term Supply Agreements with Suppliers Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount Purchase Commitments Supply And Price Period Purchase Commitments Supply And Price Period Purchase Commitments Supply And Price Period Commitments To Non-Consolidated Joint Ventures Commitments To Non-Consolidated Joint Ventures Amount of total future purchase commitments related to commitments to non-consolidated joint ventures. Advances to Suppliers [Abstract] Advances to Suppliers [Abstract] Advance payments made to Supplier Advance payments made to Supplier Advance payments made to suppliers in the current period. Advances to Suppliers Advances to Suppliers Advances to Suppliers, current and non-current Advances to suppliers, current portion Advances on Inventory Purchases Advance To Suppliers Due Year One Advance To Suppliers Obligation Year One Prepayment obligations to be paid within one year of the balance sheet date. Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Supplier Concentration Risk [Member] Supplier Concentration Risk [Member] Supplier [Axis] Supplier [Axis] Supplier [Domain] Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Supplier [Domain] Supplier One [Member] Supplier One [Member] Supplier One [Member] Supplier Two [Member] Supplier Two [Member] Supplier Two [Member] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Advances From Customer, Maturity Profile [Abstract] Advances From Customer, Maturity Profile [Abstract] Advances From Customer, Maturity Profile [Abstract] 2014 Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year One Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year One 2015 Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Two Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Two 2016 Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Three Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Three 2017 Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Four Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Four 2018 Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, After Year Five Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, After Year Five Thereafter Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Five Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Year Five Total Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Total Estimated Utilization of Advances From Customers, Total AUOSP [Member] AUOSP [Member] AUOSP [Member] Customer Advances and Deposits Customer Advances and Deposits Customer advances, current portion Customer Advances, Current Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract] Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract] Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward] Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward] Product Warranties, beginning Product Warranty Accrual Accruals of warranties issued during the period Product Warranty Accrual, Warranties Issued Settlements made during the period Product Warranty Accrual, Payments Product Warranties, end Loss Contingency [Abstract] Loss Contingency [Abstract] Product Liability Contingency, Accrual, Assumptions Product Liability Contingency, Accrual, Assumptions Future Financing Commitments [Abstract] Future Financing Commitments [Abstract] Future Financing Commitments [Abstract] Future Financing Commitments [Table] Future Financing Commitments [Table] Future Financing Commitments [Table] Future Financing Commitments [Line Items] Future Financing Commitments [Line Items] [Line Items] for Future Financing Commitments [Table] Future Financing Obligation, Year One Future Financing Obligation, Year One Future Financing Obligation, Year One Liabilities Associated with Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract] Liabilities Associated with Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract] Liabilities Associated with Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract] Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Income Tax Penalties And Interest Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Income Tax Penalties And Interest Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Income Tax Penalties And Interest Accrued Balance Sheet [Abstract] Balance Sheet [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash and cash equivalents, current portion Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings Costs in Excess of Billings, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Project assets - plants and land, current portion Project Assets - Plants And Land, Current Portion Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of investments in power and distribution projects that are expected to be realized before one year or within the operating cycle, if longer. Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Restricted cash and cash equivalents, net of current portion Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Restricted long-term marketable securities Marketable Securities, Restricted, Noncurrent Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Solar power systems leased and to be leased, net Project assets - plants and land, net of current portion Investments in Power and Distribution Projects Advances to suppliers, net of current portion Advances To Suppliers, Net Of Current Portion Carrying value of capitalized payments made in advance for inventory that is expected to be received after one year or after the normal operating cycle, if longer. Long-term financing receivables, net Other long-term assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Assets Assets Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings Billings in Excess of Cost, Current Short-term debt Debt, Current Convertible debt, current portion Customer advances, current portion Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt Convertible debt, net of current portion Customer advances, net of current portion Customer Advances, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 7) Commitments and Contingencies Redeemable noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Equity: Equity [Abstract] Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding as of both June 29, 2014 and December 29, 2013 Preferred Stock, Value, Outstanding Common stock, $0.001 par value, 367,500,000 shares authorized; 138,127,538 shares issued, and 131,121,956 outstanding as of June 29, 2014; 126,946,763 shares issued, and 121,535,913 outstanding as of December 29, 2013 Common Stock, Value, Outstanding Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock, at cost; 7,005,582 shares of common stock as of June 29, 2014; 5,410,850 shares of common stock as of December 29, 2013 Treasury Stock, Value Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Segment Reporting [Abstract] Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table 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] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Foreign Exchange Option [Member] Foreign Exchange Option [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Foreign currency derivatives Derivative Asset, Current Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Bond hedge derivative Derivative Asset Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Foreign currency derivatives Derivative Liability, Current Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Foreign currency derivatives Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Derivative Liability Derivative Liability Notional Disclosures [Abstract] Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Loss Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing Derivative Instruments, Loss Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Derivatives [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Derivatives [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward] Gain (loss) in Accumulated OCI at the beginning of the period Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Cumulative Changes In Net Gain Loss From CashFlow Hedge Effect Before Tax Accumulated pretax change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Unrealized gain (loss) recognized in OCI (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Less: loss (gain) reclassified from Accumulated OCI to revenue (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Net loss on derivatives Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Gain (loss) in Accumulated OCI at the end of the period Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Estimated Utilization Of Advances From Customers [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Estimated Utilization Of Advances From Customers [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Estimated Utilization Of Advances From Customers [Table Text Block] Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Redeemable noncontrolling interest [Member] Report Date [Axis] Report Date [Axis] Financial Statement Filing Date [Domain] Financial Statement Filing Date [Domain] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Capital Units [Member] Capital Units [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Axis] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Axis] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Domain] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Domain] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Redeemable noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries Shares, Issued Shares, Issued Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Issuance of common stock upon exercise of options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities Settlement of the 4.75% Bond Hedge Derivative, Cash Received on Hedge Settlement of the 4.75% Warrants Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Warrant Issued Stock-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Tax benefit from convertible debt interest deduction Tax benefit from convertible debt interest deduction Tax benefit from convertible debt interest deduction Tax benefit from stock-based compensation Tax benefit from stock-based compensation Tax benefit from stock-based compensation Contributions from noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests Distributions from noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Transfer of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Transfer of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Transfer of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Redeemable noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries Shares, Issued Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Text Block] Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income (loss) Components of comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives (Note 10) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Unrealized loss on investments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Income taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Total comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common stock held in treasury Treasury Stock, Shares Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] UNITED STATES UNITED STATES PHILIPPINES PHILIPPINES MEXICO MEXICO Europe [Member] Europe [Member] UNKNOWN COUNTRY UNKNOWN COUNTRY Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Collateralized Equipment Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported, Other Property, plant and equipment, net by geography: Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment, net Accounts receivable, net: Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Roll Forward] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Roll Forward] Accounts receivable, gross Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts, beginning Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Less: allowance for sales returns Allowance for sales returns Allowance for sales returns Accounts receivable, net Short-term financing receivable Short-term retainage Contract Receivable Retainage, Due in Next Twelve Months Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Inventories Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current [Abstract] Deferred project costs Deferred Costs, Current Bond hedge derivative Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets VAT receivables, current portion Value Added Tax Receivable, Current Deferred costs for solar power systems to be leased Deferred costs for solar power systems to be leased, current Deferred costs for solar power systems to be leased, current Foreign Currency Derivative Assets at Fair Value Foreign Currency Derivative Assets at Fair Value Other receivables Other Receivables Other prepaid expenses Other Prepaid Expense, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Project Assets [Abstract] Project Assets [Abstract] Project assets — plants Project assets — plants Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of investments in power and distribution projects dealing with plant assets. Project assets — land Project assets — land Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of investments in power and distribution projects that deal with land assets. Project assets - plants and land Project Assets - Plants and Land Net, carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of investments in power and distribution projects that are expected to be realized. Includes projects that are deemed current and long-term. Property, plant and equipment, net: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Manufacturing equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Land and buildings Land and buildings, Gross Amount before accumulated depreciation of land and building structures held for productive use. Leasehold improvements Leasehold Improvements, Gross Solar power systems4 Solar power systems, gross Solar power systems associated with sale-leaseback Computer equipment Computer Equipment, Gross Amount before accumulated depreciation of computer equipment Furniture and fixtures Furniture and Fixtures, Gross Construction-in-process Construction in Progress, Gross Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Solar power systems, sale leaseback Sale Leaseback Transaction, Net Book Value Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Equity method investments Equity Method Investments Retainage Contract Receivable Retainage Cost method investments Cost Method Investments Long-term debt issuance costs Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Other Investments and Other Noncurrent Assets Other long-term assets Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Bond hedge derivatives Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Liabilities Employee compensation and employee benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Short-term residential lease financing Short-term residential lease financing Short-term residential lease financing Interest payable Interest Payable, Current Short-term warranty reserves Product Warranty Accrual, Current Restructuring reserve VAT payables Value Added Tax Payable, Current Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of value added taxes payable to tax authorities. For classified balance sheets, represents the current amount payable, that is amounts expected to be paid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Foreign currency derivatives Foreign Currency Derivative Liabilities at Fair Value Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Long-term warranty reserves Product Warranty Accrual, Noncurrent Long-term sale-leaseback financing Sale Leaseback Transaction, Amount Due under Financing Arrangement Long-term residential lease financing Long-term residential lease financing Long-term residential lease financing Unrecognized tax benefits Other Other Liabilities Other long-term liabilities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Cumulative translation adjustment Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Before Tax Accumulated pretax adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains or losses. Net unrealized loss on derivatives Deferred taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated other comprehensive loss Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Americas [Member] Americas [Member] EMEA [Member] EMEA [Member] APAC [Member] Asia Pacific [Member] Change in stock-based compensation capitalized in inventory [Member] Change in stock-based compensation capitalized in inventory [Member] Change in stock-based compensation capitalized in inventory [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Stock-based Compensation Expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Schedule of Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Table Text Block] Schedule of Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Table Text Block] Minimum Future Rental Receipts on Operating Leases Placed in Service [Table Text Block] Minimum Future Rental Receipts on Operating Leases Placed in Service [Table Text Block] Minimum Future Rental Receipts on Operating Leases Placed in Service [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Future Maturities of Net Financing Receivables for Sales-type Leases [Table Text Block] Future Maturities of Net Financing Receivables for Sales-type Leases [Table Text Block] Future Maturities of Net Financing Receivables for Sales-type Leases [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] NRG Solar Inc. [Member] NRG Solar Inc. [Member] NRG Solar Inc. [Member] Mid American Energy Holdings Company [Member] Mid American Energy Holdings Company [Member] Mid American Energy Holdings Company [Member] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Revenue As Percentage Of Total Revenues Revenue As Percentage Of Total Revenues Revenue As Percentage Of Total Revenues Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Entity's Reportable Segments [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Gross Profit [Member] Gross Profit [Member] Gross profit [Member] Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Solar Power Product [Member] Solar Power Product [Member] Solar Power Product [Member] Solar Power Systems [Member] Solar Power Systems [Member] Solar Power Systems [Member] Residential leases [Member] Residential leases [Member] Residential leases [Member] other product [Member] other product [Member] other product [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenue as reviewed by CODM Revenue as reviewed by CODM Revenue as reviewed by CODM Gross Profit as reviewed by CODM Gross Profit as reviewed by CODM Gross Profit as reviewed by CODM Gross Profit As a Percentage of Total Revenues (as Reviewed by CODM) Gross Profit As a Percentage of Total Revenues (as Reviewed by CODM) Gross Profit As a Percentage of Total Revenues (as Reviewed by CODM) Revenue, Utility and power Plant Project Revenue, Utility and power Plant Project Revenue, Utility and power Plant Project Profit, Utility and Power Plant Projects Profit, Utility and Power Plant Projects Profit, Utility and Power Plant Projects Non-cash interest expense Noncash Interest Expense Noncash Interest Expense Other Revenue, Net Other Revenue, Net Other, Cost of Revenue Other, Cost of Revenue Other, Cost of Revenue Cost of revenue Gross Profit Gross Profit As a Percentage of Total Revenues Gross Profit As a Percentage of Total Revenues Gross Profit As a Percentage of Total Revenues Depreciation Depreciation Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Maturities Of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Maturities Of Debt [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the combined aggregate amount of maturities and sinking fund requirements for all borrowings for each of the five years following the date of the latest balance sheet date presented. Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Equity in earnings of unconsolidated investees Deferred income taxes and other tax liabilities Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Other, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisition: Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings Increase Decrease In Costs In Excess Of Billings On Uncompleted Contracts Or Programs The net change during the reporting period in amount included in cost of uncompleted contracts in excess of related billings, or unbilled accounts receivable, which is expected to be collected within one year (or one operating cycle, if longer). Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Project assets Increase Decrease In Project Assets The net change during the reporting period in investments in power and distribution projects. Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Long-term financing receivables, net Increase (Decrease) in Long-Term Financing Receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Long-Term Financing Receivable, net Advances to suppliers Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings Increase (Decrease) in Billing in Excess of Cost of Earnings Customer advances Increase (Decrease) in Customer Advances Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Purchases of property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Cash paid for solar power systems, leased and to be leased Cash paid for solar power systems, leased and to be leased Cash paid for solar power systems, leased and to be leased Proceeds from sales or maturities of marketable securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Proceeds from sale of equipment to third-party Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchases of marketable securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Cash paid for investments in unconsolidated investees Payments to Acquire Other Investments 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 [Abstract] Proceeds from issuance of convertible debt, net of issuance costs Proceeds from Convertible Debt Cash paid for repurchase of convertible debt Repayments of Convertible Debt Proceeds from settlement of 4.75% Bond Hedge Proceeds from settlement of 4.75% Bond Hedge Proceeds from settlement of 4.75% Bond Hedge Payments to settle 4.75% Warrant Payments to settle 4.75% Warrant Payments to settle 4.75% Warrant Proceeds from settlement of 4.50% Bond Hedge Proceeds from settlement of 4.50% Bond Hedge Proceeds from settlement of 4.50% Bond Hedge Proceeds from issuance of project loans, net of issuance costs Proceeds from Other Debt Assumption of project loan by customer Assumption of project loan by customer Assumption of project loan by customer Proceeds from residential lease financing Proceeds from residential lease financing Proceeds from residential lease financing Repayment of residential lease financing Repayment of residential lease financing Repayment of residential lease financing Proceeds from sale-leaseback financing Sale Leaseback Transaction, Net Proceeds Repayment of sale-leaseback financing Sale Leaseback Transaction, Other Payments Required Distributions to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Purchases of stock for tax withholding obligations on vested restricted stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Repayment of bank loans, project loans and other debt Repayments of Bank Debt Net cash provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Non-cash transactions: Nonmonetary Transactions [Abstract] Assignment of residential lease receivables to a third party financial institution Assignment of residential lease receivables to a third party financial institution Assignment of residential lease receivables to a third party financial institution Costs of solar power systems, leased and to be leased, sourced from existing inventory Costs of solar power systems, leased and to be leased, sourced from existing inventory Costs of solar power systems, leased and to be leased, sourced from existing inventory Costs of solar power systems, leased and to be leased, funded by liabilities Costs of solar power systems, leased and to be leased, funded by liabilities Costs of solar power systems, leased and to be leased, funded by liabilities Costs of solar power systems under sale-leaseback financing arrangements, sourced from project assets Costs of solar power systems under sale-leaseback financing arrangements, sourced from project assets Costs of solar power systems under sale-leaseback financing arrangements, sourced from project assets Property, plant and equipment acquisitions funded by liabilities Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Issuance of common stock upon conversion of convertible debt Conversion of Stock, Amount Converted Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Leases of Lessor Disclosure [Text Block] Leases of Lessor Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] CCPV [Member] CCPV [Member] CCPV [Member] Diamond Energy [Member] Diamond Energy [Member] Diamond Energy [Member] Woongjin [Member] Woongjin [Member] Woongjin [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Long-term note receivable Notes Receivable, Related Parties Joint Venture Energy Output Committed To Purchase Joint Venture Energy Output Committed To Purchase Joint Venture Energy Output Committed To Purchase Potential Additional Financing Obligation If Requested By Joint Venture Potential Additional Financing Obligation If Requested By Joint Venture Potential Additional Financing Obligation If Requested By Joint Venture Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] 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, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [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, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Cash and cash equivalents: Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Money market funds Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value Commercial Paper Commercial Paper Prepaid expenses and other current assets: Debt derivatives (Note 10) Bond Hedge Derivative, Current Asset Bond Hedge Derivative, Current Asset Other long-term assets: Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Accrued liabilities: Bond hedge derivatives Bond Hedge Derivatives, Liability Bond Hedge Derivatives, Liability Other long-term liabilities: Foreign currency derivatives (Note 10) Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table] 4.5% Bond Hedge [Member] 4.5% Bond Hedge [Member] 4.5% Bond Hedge [Member] Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items] Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items] Stock price Stock price Closing price of stock. Interest rate Valuation Input Interest Rate Valuation Input, Interest Rate Stock Volatility Valuation Input Stock Volatility The estimated measure of the percentage by which a share price is expected to fluctuate during a period. Volatility also may be defined as a probability-weighted measure of the dispersion of returns about the mean. The volatility of a share price is the standard deviation of the continuously compounded rates of return on the share over a specified period. That is the same as the standard deviation of the differences in the natural logarithms of the stock prices plus dividends, if any, over the period. Credit Risk Adjustment Valuation Input Credit Risk Adjustment Valuation Input Credit Risk Adjustment Maturity date Derivative, Maturity Date Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Related Parties Payments made to investees for products/services Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Document - Entity Information [Abstract] Document - Entity Information [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date 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 Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]