Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Axis]
Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain]
Asset Class [Domain]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value
Included in net income:
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings [Abstract]
Included in operating revenues
Fair Value, Assets Measured with Unobservable Inputs on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Operating Revenue
Fair Value, Assets Measured with Unobservable Inputs on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Operating Revenue
Included in fuel and purchased energy expense
Fair Value, Assets Measured with Unobservable Inputs on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included In Fuel And Purchased Energy Expense
Fair Value, Assets Measured with Unobservable Inputs on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included In Fuel And Purchased Energy Expense
Purchases, issuances and settlements:
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements) [Abstract]
Purchases
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases
Issuances
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issuances
Settlements
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount
Transfers into level 3
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3
Transfers out of level 3
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3
Balance, end of period
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Assets and Liabilities with Recurring Fair Value Measurements (Textuals) [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities with Recurring Fair Value Measurements Textuals Abstract
Cash Equivalents Included In Cash And Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Cash Equivalents Included In Cash And Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Cash Equivalents Included In Restricted Cash, Fair Value Disclosure
Cash Equivalents Included In Restricted Cash, Fair Value Disclosure
Cash Equivalents Included In Restricted Cash, Fair Value Disclosure
Organization and Operations [Abstract]
Organization and Operations [Abstract]
Organization and Operations
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Earnings (Loss) per Share [Abstract]
Earnings (Loss) per Share [Abstract]
Diluted weighted average shares calculation:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract]
Weighted average shares outstanding (basic)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Share-based awards
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment
Weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Items excluded from diluted earnings (loss) per common share
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Share-based awards
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
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 equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Margin Deposit Assets
Margin Deposit Assets
Commodity futures contracts
Commodity Futures Contracts Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Commodity Futures Contracts Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Commodity forward contracts
Commodity Forward Contracts Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Commodity Forward Contracts Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Swap Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Interest Rate Swap Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Total assets
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Security Deposit Liability
Security Deposit Liability
Commodity futures contracts
Commodity Futures Contracts Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Commodity Futures Contracts Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Commodity forward contracts
Commodity Forward Contracts Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Commodity Forward Contracts Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Swap Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Interest Rate Swap Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Total liabilities
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Use of Collateral [Abstract]
Use of Collateral Abstract
Use of Collateral
Use of Collateral [Text Block]
Use of Collateral [Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents ($229 and $242 attributable to VIEs)
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $4 and $5
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Inventory
Inventory, Net
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Restricted cash, current ($106 and $100 attributable to VIEs)
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Property, plant and equipment, net ($4,342 and $4,191 attributable to VIEs)
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Restricted cash, net of current portion ($48 and $68 attributable to VIEs)
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent
Investments in power plants
Equity Method Investments
Long-term derivative assets
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent
Other assets ($164 and $195 attributable to VIEs)
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Accrued interest payable
Interest Payable, Current
Debt, current portion ($150 and $140 attributable to VIEs)
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Derivative liabilities, current
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Liabilities
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Debt, net of current portion ($3,242 and $2,923 attributable to VIEs)
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Long-term derivative liabilities
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 15)
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share; authorized 100,000,000 shares, none issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Common stock, $0.001 par value per share; authorized 1,400,000,000 shares, 502,287,022 shares issued and 381,921,264 shares outstanding at December 31, 2014, and 497,841,056 shares issued and 429,038,988 shares outstanding at December 31, 2013
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Treasury stock, at cost, 120,365,758 and 68,802,068 shares, respectively
Treasury Stock, Value
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Accumulated deficit
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total Calpine stockholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Noncontrolling interest
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total stockholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Liabilities and Equity
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Guarantor Obligations by Underlying Asset Class [Axis]
Underlying Asset Class [Axis]
Underlying Asset Class [Domain]
Underlying Asset Class [Domain]
Loans Payable [Member]
Loans Payable [Member]
Guarantor Obligations by Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain]
Financial Standby Letter of Credit [Member]
Financial Standby Letter of Credit [Member]
Surety Bonds [Member]
Surety Bonds [Member]
Surety Bonds [Member]
Greenleaf [Member]
Greenleaf [Member]
Greenleaf [Member]
Gurantee Obligations Total [Member]
Gurantee Obligations Total [Member]
Gurantee Obligations Total [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantee Obligations Balance On First Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On First Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On First Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Second Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Second Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Second Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Third Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Third Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Third Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Fourth Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Fourth Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Fourth Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Fifth Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Fifth Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Balance On Fifth Anniversary
Guarantee Obligations Due After Five Years
Guarantee Obligations Due After Five Years
Guarantee Obligations Due After Five Years
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Russell City Project [Member]
Russell City Project [Member]
Russell City Project Member
Steamboat [Member]
Steamboat [Member]
OMEC [Member]
OMEC [Member]
OMEC [Member]
Los Esteros Project [Member]
Los Esteros Project [Member]
Los Esteros Project Member
Pasadena [Member]
Pasadena [Member]
Pasadena [Member]
Bethpage [Member]
Bethpage [Member]
Bethpage [Member]
Gilroy note payable [Member]
Gilroy note payable [Member]
Gilroy note payable [Member]
Other Debt Obligations [Member]
Other Debt Obligations [Member]
Project Financing Total [Member]
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage
Segment and Significant Customer Information [Abstract]
Segment and Significant Customer Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table]
Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Operating Segments [Member]
Operating Segments [Member]
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Major Customers [Axis]
Customer [Axis]
Name of Major Customer [Domain]
Customer [Domain]
PJM Settlement, Inc. [Member]
PJM Settlement, Inc. [Member]
PJM Settlement, Inc. [Member]
Pacific Gas & Electric Company [Member]
Pacific Gas & Electric Company [Member]
Pacific Gas & Electric Company [Member]
Statement, Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Segment, Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
West [Member]
West Member
Texas [Member]
TEXAS
East [Member]
North Member
Geography Consolidation and Elimination [Member]
Geography Consolidation and Elimination [Member]
Geography Consolidation and Elimination [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Operating revenues
Revenues
Commodity Margin
Commodity Margin
Commodity Margin
Mark-to-Market Commodity Activity, Net and Other Revenue
Mark-to-Market Commodity Activity, Net and Other Revenue
Mark-to-Market Commodity Activity, Net and Other Revenue
Plant operating expense
Operating Costs and Expenses
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction
Sales, general and other administrative expense
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Impairment losses
Asset Impairment Charges
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets
(Income) from unconsolidated investments in power plants
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Income from operations
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest expense, net of interest income
Interest Revenue (Expense), Net
Loss on interest rate derivatives
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Debt Extinguishment Costs and Other (Income) Expense, Net
Debt Extinguishment Costs and Other (Income) Expense, Net
Debt Extinguishment Costs and Other (Income) Expense, Net
Income before income taxes
Income (loss) before reorganization items, income taxes and discontinued operations
Income (loss) before reorganization items, income taxes and discontinued operations
Commodity Margin for Six Southeast Power Plants Sold
Commodity Margin for Six Southeast Power Plants Sold
Commodity Margin for Six Southeast Power Plants Sold
Lease levelization
Lease levelization
LeaseLevelization
Contract amortization
Contract amortization
Contract amortization
Commodity Margin Broad River Energy Center
Commodity Margin Broad River Energy Center
Commodity Margin Broad River Energy Center
Commodity Margin Riverside Energy Center
Commodity Margin Riverside Energy Center
Commodity Margin including in our North Segment related to Riverside Energy Center
Number of significant customers
Number of Significant Customers
Number of Significant Customers
Schedule of Financial Data for Segments
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Non-Qualified Stock Option Activity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value for Options
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit Activity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
First Lien Notes 2019 [Member]
First Lien Notes 2019 [Member]
2019 First Lien Notes Member
First Lien Notes 2020 [Member]
First Lien Notes 2020 [Member]
2020 First Lien Notes Member
First Lien Notes 2021 [Member]
First Lien Notes 2021 [Member]
2021 First Lien Notes Member
2022 First Lien Notes [Member]
2022 First Lien Notes [Member]
2022 First Lien Notes [Member]
First Lien Notes 2023 [Member]
First Lien Notes 2023 [Member]
2023 First Lien Notes Member
2024 First Lien Notes [Member]
2024 First Lien Notes [Member]
2024 First Lien Notes [Member]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax [Table]
Income tax [Table]
Income tax [Table]
Tax Period [Axis]
Tax Period [Axis]
Tax Period [Domain]
Tax Period [Domain]
Expiration date 2014 through 2034 [Member]
Expiration date 2015 through 2034 [Member]
Expiration date 2015 through 2034 [Member]
Expiration date 2026 and 2034 [Member]
Expiration date 2026 and 2034 [Member]
Expiration date 2026 and 2034 [Member]
Expiration date 2023 through 2034 [Member]
Expiration date 2023 through 2033 [Member]
Expiration date 2023 through 2033 [Member]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Federal [Domain]
Federal [Domain]
Federal [Domain]
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Intraperiod [Axis]
Intraperiod [Axis]
Intraperiod [Axis]
Intraperiod [Domain]
Intraperiod [Domain]
Intraperiod [Domain]
Intraperiod income tax [Line Items]
Intraperiod income tax [Line Items]
Intraperiod income tax [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic
Number of States for NOL Carryforwards
Number of States for NOL Carryforwards
Number of States for NOL Carryforwards
Deferred income tax liability, net of current
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Intraperiod Tax Allocation
Federal statutory tax expense (benefit) rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
Income Tax Disclosure (Textuals) [Abstract]
Income Taxes Textuals Abstract
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Resulting in Net Operating Loss Carryforward
Unrecognized Tax Benefit Related to Deferred Tax Asset
Unrecognized Tax Benefit Related to Deferred Tax Asset
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost
Valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount
Miscellaneous increase in state, Deferred Tax Assets
Miscellaneous increase in state, Deferred Tax Assets
Miscellaneous increase in state, Deferred Tax Assets
Tax refund due to foreign dividend income treatment
Tax refund due to foreign dividend income treatment
Tax refund due to foreign dividend income treatment
Tax refund plus accrued interest due to foreign dividend income treatment
Tax refund plus accrued interest due to foreign dividend income treatment
Tax refund plus accrued interest due to foreign dividend income treatment
Accrued interest on foreign dividend refund
Accrued interest on foreign dividend refund
Accrued interest on foreign dividend refund
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense
Derivative Instruments [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments [Abstract]
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value
Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instrument by Accounting Designation
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Offsetting Assets [Table Text Block]
Offsetting Assets [Table Text Block]
Realized Unrealized Gain Loss by Instrument
Realized Unrealized Gain Loss by Instrument [Table Text Block]
Realized Unrealized Gain Loss by Instrument Table Text Block
Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Derivatives Designated as Hedges
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Secured Debt [Member]
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Debt, current portion
Debt, net of current portion
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Energy Related Derivative [Member]
Energy Related Derivative [Member]
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative assets, current
Derivative Asset, Current
Derivative Asset, Noncurrent
Derivative Asset, Noncurrent
Total derivative assets
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Derivative Liability, Current
Derivative Liability, Current
Derivative Liability, Noncurrent
Derivative Liability, Noncurrent
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Net derivative assets (liabilities)
Derivative, Fair Value, Net
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $4 and $5
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Preferred Stock, authorized shares (in shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred Stock, issued shares (in shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Preferred Stock, outstanding shares (in shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common Stock, authorized shares (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common Stock, issued shares (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common Stock, outstanding shares (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Treasury Stock, shares (in shares)
Treasury Stock, Shares
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Power [Member]
Power [Member]
Power [Member]
Natural Gas [Member]
Natural Gas [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Derivatives
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Derivatives
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives
Derivatives contracts included in operating revenues
Derivatives contracts included in fuel and purchased energy
Cost of Revenue
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax
First Lien Term Loans 2018 [Member]
First Lien Term Loans 2018 [Member]
First Lien Term Loans 2018 [Member]
First Lien Term Loan 2019 [Member]
First Lien Term Loan 2019 [Member]
First Lien Term Loan 2019 [Member]
2020 First Lien Term Loan [Member]
2020 First Lien Term Loan [Member]
2020 First Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Income tax expense benefit intraperiod tax allocation [Axis]
Income tax expense benefit intraperiod tax allocation [Axis]
Income tax expense benefit intraperiod tax allocation [Axis]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Domain]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Domain]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Domain]
Continuing Operations [Member]
Continuing Operations [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Natural gas and power prepayments
Natural gas and power prepayments
Natural gas and power prepayments
Total margin deposits and natural gas and power prepayments with our counterparties
Derivative Collateral Right To Reclaim Cash And Natural Gas And Power Prepayments Total
Derivative Collateral Right To Reclaim Cash And Natural Gas And Power Prepayments Total
Letters of credit issued
Letters of credit issued
Letters of credit issued
First priority liens under power and natural gas agreements
First priority liens under power and natural gas agreements
First priority liens under power and natural gas agreements
First priority liens under interest rate swap agreements
First priority liens under interest rate swap agreements
First priority liens under interest rate swap agreements
Total letters of credit and first priority liens with our counterparties
Letters of Credit Issued and First Priority Liens Under Power Natural Gas And Interest Rate Swap Agreements
Letters of Credit Issued and First Priority Liens Under Power Natural Gas And Interest Rate Swap Agreements
Letters of credit posted with us by our counterparties
Letters Of Credit Posted By Counterparties
Letters Of Credit Posted By Counterparties
Total margin deposits and letters of credit posted with us by our counterparties
Derivative Collateral Obligation To Return Cash And Letters Of Credit Posted By Counterparties
Derivative Collateral Obligation To Return Cash And Letters Of Credit Posted By Counterparties
Use of Collateral (Textuals) [Abstract]
Use of Collateral Textuals Abstract
Margin And Prepayment Amounts Included In Other Assets
Margin And Prepayment Amounts Included In Other Assets
Margin And Prepayment Amounts Included In Other Assets
Margin And Prepayment Amounts Included In Margin Deposits And Other Prepaid Expenses
Margin And Prepayment Amounts Included In Margin Deposits And Other Prepaid Expenses
Margin And Prepayment Amounts Included In Margin Deposits And Other Prepaid Expenses
Earnings (Loss) per Share
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Consolidated Financial Data (unaudited)
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block]
Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block]
NOL and credit carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards
Taxes related to risk management activities and derivatives
Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments
Reorganization items and impairments
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Impairment Losses
Foreign capital losses
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign
Other differences
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Valuation allowance
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred tax liabilities: property, plant and equipment
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Net deferred tax asset (liability)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Less: Current portion deferred tax asset (liability)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current
Less: Non-current deferred tax asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross, Noncurrent
Deferred income tax liability, net of current
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Assets and Liabilities with Recurring Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table]
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table]
Eligible Item or Group for Fair Value Option [Axis]
Eligible Item or Group for Fair Value Option [Axis]
Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain]
Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Collateral
Collateral [Table Text Block]
Collateral table text block
Line of Credit Facility [Table]
Line of Credit Facility [Table]
Corporate Revolving Facility [Member]
Corporate Revolving Facility [Member]
Corporate Revolving Facility Member
Line of Credit Facility [Axis]
Lender Name [Axis]
Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain]
Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain]
CDH [Member]
Calpine Development Holdings Member
Various Project Financing Facilities [Member]
Various project financing facilities member
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding
Stock-Based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Variable Interest Entities and Unconsolidated Investments [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entities and Unconsolidated Investments Abstract
Variable Interest Entities and Unconsolidated Investments
Variable Interest Entities and Unconsolidated Investments [Text Block]
Variable Interest Entities and Unconsolidated Investments
Capital Structure [Abstract]
Capital Structure [Abstract]
Schedule of Common Stock Activity
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]
Debt CCFC [Abstract]
Debt CCFC [Abstract]
Incremental CCFC Term Loans [Member]
Incremental CCFC Term Loans [Member]
Incremental CCFC Term Loans [Member]
Secured Debt [Member]
CCFC Term Loan B-1 [Member]
CCFC Term Loan B-1 [Member]
CCFC Term Loan B-1 [Member]
CCFC Term Loan B-2 [Member]
CCFC Term Loan B-2 [Member]
CCFC Term Loan B-2 [Member]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Term Loan Period
Term Loan Period
Term Loan Period
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum
Term loan interest rate spread option Federal Funds effective rate
Term loan interest rate spread option Federal Funds effective rate
Term loan interest rate spread option Federal Funds effective rate
Term loan interest rate spread option Prime Rate
Term loan interest rate spread option Prime Rate
Term loan interest rate spread option Prime Rate
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum
Long Term Debt net of Original Issuance Disount
Long Term Debt net of Original Issuance Disount
Long Term Debt net of Original Issuance Disount
Percentage of the principal amount of the Term Loan to be paid quarterly
Percentage of the principal amount of the Term Loan to be paid quarterly
Percentage of the principal amount of the Term Loan to be paid quarterly
Quarterly Consolidated Financial Data (unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]
Six Power Plants Disposed [Abstract]
Six Power Plants Disposed [Abstract]
Six power plants disposed of [Table Text Block]
Six Power Plants To be disposed of [Table Text Block]
Six Power Plants To be disposed of [Table Text Block]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Debt [Abstract]
Debt [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2015
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
2016
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
2017
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
2018
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Total debt, gross
Long-term Debt, Gross
Less: Discount
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net
Lender Name [Axis]
Interest Periods [Axis]
Interest Periods Axis
Interest Periods [Domain]
Interest Periods Domain
One Month [Member]
One Month Member
Two Months [Member]
Two Months [Member]
Two Months Member
Three Months [Member]
Three Months [Member]
Three Months Member
Six Months [Member]
Six Months [Member]
Six Months Member
Nine Months [Member]
Nine Months [Member]
Nine Months Member
Twelve Months [Member]
Twelve Months [Member]
Twelve Months Member
First Lien Term Loans [Member]
First Lien Term Loans [Member]
First Lien Term Loans [Member]
CDHI [Member]
CDHI [Member]
CDHI [Member]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net
Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Percentage of principal amount of Term Loan to be paid quarterly
Percentage of the principal amount of the Term Loan to be paid quarterly
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt
Maximum Remaining Lease Term
Maximum Remaining Lease Term
Maximum Remaining Lease Term
Lease Assets, Historical Cost
Lease Assets, Historical Cost
Lease Assets, Historical Cost
Lease Assets, Accumulated Depreciation
Lease Assets, Accumulated Depreciation
Lease Assets, Accumulated Depreciation
Applicable margin range percentage above base rate
Applicable margin range percentage above base rate
Applicable margin range percentage above base rate
Percentage added to Federal Funds Effective Rate to arrive at base rate
Percentage added to Federal Funds Effective Rate to arrive at base rate
Percentage added to Federal Funds Effective Rate to arrive at base rate
Interest periods for LIBOR rate borrowings
Interest periods for LIBOR rate borrowings
Interest periods for LIBOR rate borrowings
Applicable Margin Range Percentage Above British Bankers' Association Interest Settlement Rates
Applicable Margin Range Percentage Above British Bankers' Association Interest Settlement Rates
Applicable margin range percentage added to the British Bankers' Association Interest Settlement Rates
Repayment time for drawings under letters of credit
Repayment time for drawings under letters of credit
Repayment time for drawings under letters of credit
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage
Excess amount of asset sales requiring mandatory prepayments
Excess amount of asset sales requiring mandatory prepayments
Excess amount of asset sales requiring mandatory prepayments
Letter of Credit Total
Letter of Credit Total
Letter of Credit Total
Operating revenues
Income (loss) from operations
Net income (loss) attributable to Calpine
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Calpine — basic (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Calpine — diluted (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Greenfield [Member]
Greenfield member
Whitby [Member]
Whitby member
Income Loss from Unconsolidated Investments in Power Plants and Distributions [Line Items]
Income Loss from Unconsolidated Investments in Power Plants and Distributions [Line Items]
Income Loss from Unconsolidated Investments in Power Plants and Distributions [Line Items]
Distributions from Equity Method Investments
Distributions from Equity Method Investments
Distributions from Equity Method Investments
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Domain]
Products and Services [Domain]
Operating Lease Assets [Axis]
Operating Lease Assets [Axis]
Operating Lease Assets [Domain]
Operating Lease Assets [Domain]
Land and Other Operating Leases [Member]
Land and Other Operating Leases [Member]
Land and Other Operating Leases [Member]
KIAC [Member]
KIAC [Member]
Total Power Plant Leases [Member]
Electric Generation Equipment [Member]
Operting Lease Assets Total [Member]
Operting Lease Assets Total [Member]
Office Equipment [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current
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
Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements
Condensed Financial Statements [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]
Income (Loss) From Unconsolidated Investments in Power Plants and Distributions
Income/loss from unconsolidated investments in power plants and Distributions [Table Text Block]
Income/loss from unconsolidated investments in power plants and Distributions [Table Text Block]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Parent [Member]
Parent [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Maximum length of time hedging using interest rate derivative instruments
Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge
Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value
Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value
Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value
Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value
Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value
Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
(Gain) Loss on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net
Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
Gain Loss On Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments, Unrealized
Gain Loss On Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments, Unrealized
Gain Loss On Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments, Unrealized
Gain Loss On Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments, Realized
Gain Loss On Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments, Realized
GainLossOnInterestRateDerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsRealized
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
U.S.
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic
International
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign
Total
Income (loss) before income taxes and discontinued operations with noncontrolling interest
Income (loss) before income taxes and discontinued operations with noncontrolling interest
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
First Lien Notes
First Lien Notes [Table Text Block]
First lien notes table text block
Senior Unsecured Notes [Table Text Block]
Senior Unsecured Notes [Table Text Block]
Senior Unsecured Notes [Table Text Block]
First Lien Term Loans
First Lien Term Loans [Table Text Block]
First Lien Term Loans [Table Text Block]
Project Financing Notes Payable and Other
Project Financing Notes Payable and Other [Table Text Block]
Project Financing Notes Payable and Other [Table Text Block]
CCFC Notes and CCFC Term Loans [Table Text Block]
CCFC Notes and CCFC Term Loans [Table Text Block]
[Table Text Block] for CCFC Notes and CCFC Term Loans [TableTextBlock]
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis]
Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Cash and Cash Equivalents
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Cash and Cash Equivalents
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Cash and Cash Equivalents
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Property, Plant and Equipment, net
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Property, Plant and Equipment, net
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Property, Plant and Equipment, net
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Maturities of Long-term Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Maturities of Long-term Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Maturities of Long-term Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Long-Term Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Long-Term Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Long-Term Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Long-term Derivative Liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Long-term Derivative Liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Long-term Derivative Liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cost of Sales
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cost of Sales
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss)
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Interest (Income) Expense
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Interest (Income) Expense
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Interest (Income) Expense
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Other (Income) Expense Net
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Other (Income) Expense Net
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Other (Income) Expense Net
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)
Power Plant [Axis]
Power Plant [Axis]
Power Plant [Axis]
Power Plant [Domain]
Power Plant [Domain]
[Domain] for Power Plant [Axis]
Oneta Energy Center [Member]
Oneta Energy Center [Member]
Oneta Energy Center [Member]
Carville Energy Center [Member]
Carville Energy Center [Member]
Carville Energy Center [Member]
Decatur Energy Center [Member]
Decatur Energy Center [Member]
Decatur Energy Center [Member]
Hog Bayou Energy Center [Member]
Hog Bayou Energy Center [Member]
Hog Bayou Energy Center [Member]
Santa Rosa Energy Center [Member]
Santa Rosa Energy Center [Member]
Santa Rosa Energy Center [Member]
Columbia Energy Center [Member]
Columbia Energy Center [Member]
Columbia Energy Center [Member]
Six Power Plants [Member]
Six Power Plants [Member]
Six Power Plants [Member]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain]
Fore River Energy Center [Member]
Fore River Energy Center [Member]
Fore River Energy Center [Member]
Guadalupe Energy Center [Member]
Guadalupe Energy Center [Member]
Guadalupe Energy Center [Member]
Guadalupe Expansion Capacity [Member]
Guadalupe Expansion Capacity [Member]
Guadalupe Expansion Capacity [Member]
Bosque Energy Center [Member]
Bosque Energy Center [Member]
Bosque Energy Center [Member]
Riverside Energy Center [Member]
Riverside Energy Center [Member]
Riverside Energy Center [Member]
Broad River Energy Center [Member]
Broad River Energy Center [Member] [Domain]
Broad River Energy Center [Member] [Domain]
Freestone Energy Center [Member]
Freestone Energy Center [Member]
Freestone Energy Center [Member]
Power generation capacity
Power generation capacity
Power generation capacity
Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets
Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Number of power plants disposed of
Number of power plants to be disposed of
Number of power plants to be disposed of
Block one power generation capacity
Block one power generation capacity
Block one power generation capacity
Block two power generation capacity
Block two power generation capacity
Block two power generation capacity
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property
Ownership percentage before divestiture of business
Ownership percentage before divestiture of business
Ownership percentage before divestiture of business
Working Capital Adjustment to Sale price
Working Capital Adjustment to Sale price
Working Capital Adjustment to Sale price
Cost of Property Repairs and Maintenance
Cost of Property Repairs and Maintenance
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability
(Gain) on sale of power plants, net
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Cash flow hedging activities:
Cash Flow Hedging [Abstract]
Cash Flow Hedging [Abstract]
Gain (loss) on cash flow hedges before reclassification adjustment for cash flow hedges realized in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax
Reclassification adjustment for (gain) loss on cash flow hedges realized in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax
Unrealized actuarial gains (losses) arising during period
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax
Income tax (expense) benefit
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to Calpine
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Commitments and Contingencies [Table]
Commitments and Contingencies [Table]
Commitments and Contingencies [Table]
Operating Lease Assets [Axis]
Operating Lease Assets [Domain]
Electric Generation Equipment [Member]
Office Equipment [Member]
Utility Plant Interests [Axis]
Utility Plant Interests Axis
Utility Plant Interests [Domain]
Utility Plant Interests Domain
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain]
LTSA [Member]
LTSA [Member]
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]
Commitments and Contingencies Line Items
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value
Outstanding claims related to guarantees
Outstanding claims related to guarantees
Outstanding claims related to guarantees
Royalty Expense
Royalty Expense
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation
Term of Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Lower Limit
Term of Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Lower Limit
Term of Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Upper Limit
Term of Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Upper Limit
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table 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]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
Director Plan [Member]
Director Plan [Member]
Director Plan [Member]
Equity Plan [Member]
Equity Plan [Member]
Equity Plan [Member]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Restricted Stock [Member]
Performance Shares [Member]
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Options Outstanding, Beginning balance, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Options Outstanding, Beginning balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options Ouststanding, Beginning balance, Weighted Average Remaining Term (in years)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Options Outstanding, Beginning balance, Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in $ millions)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options Outstanding, Ending balance, Number
Options Outstanding, Ending balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options Ouststanding, Ending balance, Weighted Average Remaining Term (in years)
Options Outstanding, Ending balance, Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in $ millions)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Restricted Stock and Stock Unit Activity [Abstract]
Restricted Stock and Stock Unit Activity Abstract
Nonvested Restricted Stock, Beginning balance, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Nonvested Restricted Stock, Beginning balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested Restricted Stock, Ending balance, Number
Nonvested Restricted Stock, Ending balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs Share-based Payments (Textuals) [Abstract]
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs Share-based Payments Textuals Abstract
Vesting period for graded and cliff vesting options - minimum
Vesting period for graded and cliff vesting options - minimum
Vesting period for graded and cliff vesting options - minimum
Vesting period for graded and cliff vesting options - maximum
Vesting period for graded and cliff vesting options - maximum
Vesting period for graded and cliff vesting options - maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expiration Minimum Range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expiration Minimum Range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expiration Minimum Range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expiration Maximum Range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expiration Maximum Range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Maximum Range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized for Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized for Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized for Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized for Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized for Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized for Employees
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance
Vest Term of First Sub Grant
Vest Term of First Sub Grant
Vesting Term of First Sub Grant
Vest Term of the Second Sub-Grant
Vest Term of the Second Sub-Grant
Vesting Term of the Second Sub-Grant
Vest Term of the Third Sub-Grant
Vest Term of the Third Sub-Grant
Vesting Term of the Third Sub-Grant
Grants in Option Grants with Three Year Cliff Vesting
Grants in Option Grants with Three Year Cliff Vesting
Grants in Option Grants with Three Year Cliff Vesting
Vesting term of option grants with three year cliff vesting
Vesting term of option grants with three year cliff vesting
Vesting term of option grants with three year cliff vesting
Stock-based compensation expense
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Allocated Share Based Compensation Expense Liability Classified Share-Based Awards
Allocated Share Based Compensation Expense Liability Classified Share-Based Awards
Allocated Share Based Compensation Expense Liability Classified Share-Based Awards
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Statement, Equity Components [Axis]
Common Stock [Member]
Treasury Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) [Member]
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Balance
Treasury stock transactions
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method
Stock-based compensation expense
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Option exercises
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised
Payments to Noncontrolling Interests
Payments to Noncontrolling Interests
Other
Stockholders' Equity, Other
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Balance
Balance, beginning of period
Increases related to prior year tax positions
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Decreases related to prior year tax positions
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Settlements
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Decrease related to lapse of statute of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Balance, end of period
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Member]
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Charged to Expense
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense
Deductions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Charged to Other Accounts
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts
Balance at End of Year
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
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 expense(1)
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Debt extinguishment costs
Non Cash Gains Losses On Extinguishment Of Debt
Non Cash Gains Losses On Extinguishment Of Debt
Deferred income taxes
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes
(Gain) on sale of assets, net
Mark-to-market activity, net
Return on unconsolidated investments in power plants
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions
Stock-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Other
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Assets [Abstract]
Accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Derivative instruments, net
Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities
Other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Settlement of non-hedging interest rate swaps
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities
Other liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Accounts Payable
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 [Abstract]
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Proceeds from sale of power plants, interests and other
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment
Purchase of Bosque, Fore River and Guadalupe Energy Centers
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Settlement of non-hedging interest rate swaps
Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash
Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash
Purchases of deferred transmission credits
Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets
Other
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
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 Secured Debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt
Repayments of Secured Debt
Repayments of Secured Debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt
Borrowings under First Lien Notes
Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt
Repayments of First Lien Notes
Repayments of Senior Debt
Borrowings from project financing, notes payable and other
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Repayments of project financing, notes payable and other
Repayments of Other Long-term Debt
Financing costs
Payments of Financing Costs
Stock repurchases
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Proceeds from exercises of stock options
Other
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Net increase (decrease) 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
Cash paid during the period for:
Cash paid during the period for
Title for required cash payments as presented on the Statement of Cash Flows
Interest, net of amounts capitalized
Interest Paid, Net
Income taxes
Income Taxes Paid
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Change in capital expenditures included in accounts payable
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Additions to property, plant and equipment through assumption of long-term note payable
Notes Assumed
Additions to property, plant and equipment through capital leases
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred
Segment and Significant Customer Information
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within One Year
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Next Twelve Months
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Two Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Two Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Three Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Three Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Four Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Four Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Five Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Five Years
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Thereafter
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Thereafter
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions
Interest Portion of Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions
Interest Portion of Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions
Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions
Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Total Leases Future Minimum Payments [Abstract]
Total Leases Future Minimum Payments [Abstract]
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Total Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Quantitative Information about Level 3 fair Value Measurements [Table]
Quantitative Information about Level 3 fair Value Measurements [Table]
Quantitative Information about Level 3 fair Value Measurements [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Liability Class [Axis]
Liability Class [Axis]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Physical Power [Member]
Physical Power [Member]
Physical Power [Member]
Power Congestion Products [Member]
Power Congestion Products [Member]
Power Congestion Products [Member]
Quantitative Information about Level 3 fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Quantitative Information about Level 3 fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Quantitative Information about Level 3 fair Value Measurements [Table]
Derivative, Fair Value, Net
Fair Value Inputs Quantitative Information
Fair Value Inputs Quantitative Information
Fair Value Inputs Quantitative Information
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document and 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]
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 Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain]
Greenfield [Member]
Whitby [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Debt Service
Debt Service [Member]
Debt service member
Rent Reserve [Member]
Rent Reserve [Member]
Rent Reserve member
Construction Major Maintenance
Construction Major Maintenance [Member]
Construction major maintenance member
Security Project Insurance
Security Project Insurance [Member]
Security project insurance member
Other
Other Restricted Cash [Member]
Other restricted cash member
Jointly Owned Utility Plant [Axis]
Jointly Owned Utility Plant [Axis]
Jointly Owned Utility Plant [Domain]
Jointly Owned Utility Plant [Domain]
Hidalgo Energy Center [Member]
Hidalgo Energy Center [Member]
Hidalgo Energy Center [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Current
Non-current
Total
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents
Basis Of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Textuals) [Abstract]
Basis Of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies textuals abstract
Ownership percentage in equity method investment
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Cash and cash equivalents subject to project finance facilities and lease agreements
Cash and cash equivalents subject to project finance facilities and lease agreements
Property, plant and equipment, salvage value (as a percent)
Property, Plant and Equipment, Salvage Value, Percentage
Property, plant and equipment, salvage value of rotables (as a percent)
Property, Plant and Equipment, Salvage Value, Percentage Rotables
Property, Plant and Equipment, Salvage Value, Percentage Rotables
Osprey Energy Center Agreement Term
Osprey Energy Center Agreement Term
Osprey Energy Center Agreement Term
Asset retirement obligations
Asset Retirement Obligation
Jointly Owned Plants [Abstract]
Jointly Owned Plants [Abstract]
Jointly Owned Plants [Abstract]
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Proportionate Ownership Share
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Proportionate Ownership Share
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Gross Ownership Amount of Plant in Service
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Gross Ownership Amount of Plant in Service
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Ownership Amount of Plant Accumulated Depreciation
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Ownership Amount of Plant Accumulated Depreciation
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Ownership Amount of Construction Work in Progress
Jointly Owned Utility Plant, Ownership Amount of Construction Work in Progress
Capital Structure
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Russell City Energy [Member]
Russell City Energy [Member]
Russell City Energy Member
Inland Empire Energy Center [Member]
Inland Empire Energy Center member
Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount
Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount
Minority Interest Ownership Percentage By Noncontrolling Third Party Owners
Minority Interest Ownership Percentage By Noncontrolling Third Party Owners
Minority Interest Ownership Percentage By Noncontrolling Third Party Owners
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Debt
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Debt
Prorata Share of Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Debt
Prorata Share of Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Debt
Prorata Share of Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Debt
Call Option Exercise Period
Call Option Exercise Period
Call Option Exercise Period
Put Option Exercise Period
Put Option Exercise Period
Put Option Exercise Period
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Financial Instruments [Domain]
Financial Instruments [Domain]
Power Derivative Instruments [Member]
Power Derivative Instruments [Member]
Power Derivative Instruments [Member]
Natural Gas Derivative Instruments [Member]
Natural Gas Derivative Instruments [Member]
Natural Gas Derivative Instruments [Member]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Commodity Exchange Traded Futures and Swaps Contracts [Member]
Commodity Exchange Traded Futures and Swaps Contracts [Member]
Commodity Exchange Traded Futures and Swaps Contracts [Member]
Commodity Forward Contract [Member]
Commodity Forward Contract [Member]
Commodity Forward Contract [Member]
Energy [Axis]
Energy [Axis]
Energy [Domain]
Energy [Domain]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Position [Axis]
Position [Axis]
Position [Domain]
Position [Domain]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Derivative Asset, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction
Derivative Asset, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Derivative Liability, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction
Derivative Liability, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral, Net
Derivative Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral, Net
Derivative Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral, Net
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Net
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Net
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Net
Derivative, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral, Net
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Energy Measure
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Energy Measure
Derivative, Notional Amount
Derivative, Notional Amount
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
Employer Matching Contribution Percentage
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match
Deferral Election Percentage For Employer Matching Contribution
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent
Employee Deferral Limit Percentage
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure
Senior Unsecured Notes, Fair Value Disclosure
Senior Unsecured Notes, Fair Value Disclosure
Senior Unsecured Notes, Fair Value Disclosure
Loans Payable, Fair Value Disclosure
Notes Payable, Other Payables, Disclosure
Notes Payable, Other Payables, Disclosure
Subsidiaries Term Loan
Subsidiaries Term Loan
Subsidiaries Term Loan
Debt Excluding Capital Leases
Debt Excluding Capital Leases
Debt Excluding Capital Leases
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Power Plant and Land and Other Operating Leases
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Office and Equipment Leases
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Office and Equipment Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Office and Equipment Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Future Minimum Payments For Commodities [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Future Minimum Payments For Commodities [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Future Minimum Payments For Commodities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchases in 2014 [Member]
Share Repurchases in 2014 [Member]
Share Repurchases in 2014 [Member]
2014 Through Filing Date [Member]
2015 Through Filing Date [Member]
2015 Through Filing Date [Member]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Shares Issued [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued under Calpine Equity Incentive Plans
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Share repurchase program
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired
Total common shares outstanding, ending balance
Total Common Shares Outstanding Including Shares Held in Reserve
Total Common Shares Outstanding Including Shares Held in Reserve
Common Stock, authorized shares (in shares)
Common Stock, issued shares (in shares)
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, outstanding shares (in shares)
Treasury Stock, Shares (in shares)
Treasury Stock, Value
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share
Shareholder Transaction
Common Stock Activity [Roll Forward]
Common Stock Activity [Roll Forward]
Shareholder Ownership Percentage
Shareholder Ownership Percentage
Shareholder Ownership Percentage
Common Stock Purchased from Shareholder
Common Stock Purchased from Shareholder
Common Stock Purchased from Shareholder
Purchase Price of Common Stock Purchased from Shareholder
Purchase Price of Common Stock Purchased from Shareholder
Purchase Price of Common Stock Purchased from Shareholder
Interest Expense [Member]
Interest Expense [Member]
Gains (Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (EffectivePortion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Senior Unsecured Notes 2023 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2023 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2023 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2025 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2025 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2025 [Member]
2019, 2020 and 2021 First Lien Notes [Member]
2019, 2020 and 2021 First Lien Notes [Member]
2019, 2020 and 2021 First Lien Notes [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2024 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2024 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes 2024 [Member]
Early Redemption Amount [Member]
Early Redemption Amount [Member]
Early Redemption Amount [Member]
Deferred Finance Costs, Net
Deferred Finance Costs, Net
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Building, Machinery and Equipment, Gross [Member]
Building, Machinery and Equipment, Gross [Member]
Building, Machinery and Equipment, Gross [Member]
Geothermal Properties, Gross [Member]
Geothermal Properties, Gross [Member]
Geothermal Properties, Gross [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Buildings, machinery and equipment
Buildings, Machinery and Equipment, Gross
Buildings, machinery and equipment, gross
Geothermal properties
Geothermal Properties, Gross
Geothermal Properties, Gross
Other
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Less: Accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Less Accumulated Depreciation
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Less Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Less Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Land
Land
Construction in progress
Construction in Progress, Gross
Property, plant and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Interest Costs, Capitalized During Period
Interest Costs Capitalized
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Axis]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Axis]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Axis]
State tax expense (benefit), net of federal benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Depletion in excess of basis
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Depletion, Percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements, Domestic
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Domestic, Percent
Valuation allowances
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Change in Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Due to Foreign Taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Change in Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Due to Foreign Taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Due to Foreign Taxes
Foreign taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent
Intraperiod allocation
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Intraperiod Allocation
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Intraperiod Allocation
Change in unrecognized tax benefits
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Change In Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Change In Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Nondeductible Expense Disallowed Compensation
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Nondeductible Expense Disallowed Compensation
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Nondeductible Expense Disallowed Compensation
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Other, Percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Other, Percent
Permanent differences and other items
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent
Effective income tax expense (benefit) rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Equity Method Investments Included on Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments Included on Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Schedule of Jointly Owned Utility Plants [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Jointly Owned Utility Plants [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Components of Restricted Cash
Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Total Contractual Future Minimum Lease Receipts
Federal
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Foreign
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total current
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Foreign
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total income tax expense (benefit)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Equity Method Investments
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reclassification
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Jointly-Owned Plants [Policy Text Block]
Jointly-Owned Plants [Policy Text Block]
Jointly-Owned Plants [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Derivatives
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Concentrations of Credit Risk [Policy Text Block]
Credit Risk, Policy
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Restricted Cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts Receivable and Payable
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventory
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Collateral
Collateral [Policy Text Block]
Collateral [Policy Text Block]
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Impairment Evaluation of Long-Lived Assets (Including Intangibles and Investments)
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Asset Retirement Obligation
Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounting for Derivative Instruments
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fuel and Purchased Energy Expense
'Fuel And Purchased Energy Expense [Policy Text Block]
Fuel And Purchased Energy Expense [Policy Text Block]
Plant Operating Expense
Plant Operating Expense [Policy Text Block]
Plant Operating Expense [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings (Loss) per Share
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Stock-Based Compensation
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block]
Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block]
Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Intraperiod Tax Allocation
Schedule of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Intraperiod Tax Allocation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Income Tax Expense Benefit Intraperiod Tax Allocation Table Text Block
Schedule of Income Tax Contingencies
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Operating revenues:
Revenues [Abstract]
Commodity revenue
Sales Revenue from Energy Commodities and Services
Mark to Market Gain Loss on Derivatives included in Operating Revenues
Mark to Market Gain Loss on Derivatives included in Operating Revenues
Mark to Market Gain Loss on Derivatives included in Operating Revenues
Other revenue
Other Operating Income
Operating expenses:
Cost of Revenue [Abstract]
Commodity expense
Cost of Goods and Services, Energy Commodities and Services
Mark to Market Gain Loss on Derivatives Included in Fuel and Purchased Energy Expense
Mark to Market Gain Loss on Derivatives Included in Fuel and Purchased Energy Expense
Mark to Market Gain Loss on Derivatives Included in Fuel and Purchased Energy Expense
Fuel and purchased energy expense
Other operating expenses
Total operating expenses
Costs and Expenses
Interest (income)
Investment Income, Interest
Debt extinguishment costs
Other (income) expense, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income tax expense
Net income
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to Calpine
Basic earnings per common share attributable to Calpine:
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding (in shares)
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Calpine — basic (in dollars per share)
Diluted earnings per common share attributable to Calpine:
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding (in shares)
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Calpine — diluted (in dollars per share)