Cleco Corporate 10-Q 30 Oct 13 2013 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Oct. 25, 2013
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	CLECO CORP
Entity Central Index Key	1089819
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-13
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		60,452,158
Cleco Power [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	CLECO POWER LLC
Entity Central Index Key	18672
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating revenue
Electric operations	$314,766	$282,894	$796,957	$720,776
Other operations	14,843	15,408	37,917	38,464
Affiliate revenue	0	0	0	0
Gross operating revenue	329,609	298,302	834,874	759,240
Electric customer credits	-846	-930	-1,270	1,025
Operating revenue, net	328,763	297,372	833,604	760,265
Operating expenses
Fuel used for electric generation	101,752	79,701	259,728	207,764
Power purchased for utility customers	5,999	19,364	24,795	44,069
Other operations	30,057	30,517	88,420	86,901
Maintenance	20,427	20,059	64,372	61,478
Depreciation	41,756	34,931	110,529	99,028
Taxes other than income taxes	12,007	9,455	34,926	29,198
Loss (gain) on sale of assets	-29	-2	817	-57
Total operating expenses	211,969	194,025	583,587	528,381
Operating income	116,794	103,347	250,017	231,884
Interest income	332	132	789	163
Allowance for other funds used during construction	1,303	1,882	2,880	4,298
Equity income (loss) from investees, before tax			0	1
Other income	2,837	1,834	12,282	24,223
Other expense	-1,456	-1,232	-2,146	-2,718
Interest charges
Interest charges, including amortization of debt expense, premium, and discount, net	19,436	22,610	62,284	64,671
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction	-422	-644	-926	-1,466
Total interest charges	19,014	21,966	61,358	63,205
Income before income taxes	100,796	83,997	202,464	194,646
Federal and state income tax expense	34,389	20,179	66,892	54,110
Net income applicable to common stock	66,407	63,818	135,572	140,536
Net income	66,407	63,818	135,572	140,536
Average shares of common stock outstanding
Average number of basic common shares outstanding (in shares)	60,450,384	60,346,476	60,428,944	60,375,538
Average number of diluted common shares outstanding (in shares)	60,748,647	60,599,203	60,694,632	60,626,471
Basic earnings per share
Net income applicable to common stock (in dollars per share)	$1.10	$1.06	$2.25	$2.33
Diluted earnings per share
Net income applicable to common stock (in dollars per share)	$1.09	$1.05	$2.23	$2.32
Cash dividends paid per share of common stock (in dollars per share)	$0.36	$0.34	$1.06	$0.96
Cleco Power [Member]
Operating revenue
Electric operations	314,766	282,894	796,957	720,776
Other operations	14,301	14,905	36,366	36,967
Affiliate revenue	335	343	1,005	1,030
Gross operating revenue	329,402	298,142	834,328	758,773
Electric customer credits	-846	-930	-1,270	1,025
Operating revenue, net	328,556	297,212	833,058	759,798
Operating expenses
Fuel used for electric generation	101,752	79,701	259,728	207,459
Power purchased for utility customers	18,339	33,254	51,278	65,493
Other operations	28,471	29,063	83,385	82,647
Maintenance	17,478	16,095	55,857	51,739
Depreciation	39,962	33,199	105,251	93,847
Taxes other than income taxes	10,891	8,390	31,554	26,004
Loss (gain) on sale of assets			0	-1
Total operating expenses	216,893	199,702	587,053	527,188
Operating income	111,663	97,510	246,005	232,610
Interest income	331	129	784	153
Allowance for other funds used during construction	1,303	1,882	2,880	4,298
Other income	2,838	1,188	4,606	3,511
Other expense	-2,239	-1,224	-3,693	-2,698
Interest charges
Interest charges, including amortization of debt expense, premium, and discount, net	19,078	22,606	61,808	62,719
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction	-422	-644	-926	-1,466
Total interest charges	18,656	21,962	60,882	61,253
Income before income taxes	95,240	77,523	189,700	176,621
Federal and state income tax expense	33,355	19,740	65,558	54,748
Net income	$61,885	$57,783	$124,142	$121,873

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net income	$66,407	$63,818	$135,572	$140,536
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Amortization of postretirement benefits (net of tax)	497	332	1,619	1,221
Net gain on cash flow hedges (net of tax)	53	483	1,426	1,143
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	550	815	3,045	2,364
Comprehensive income, net of tax	66,957	64,633	138,617	142,900
Cleco Power [Member]
Net income	61,885	57,783	124,142	121,873
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Amortization of postretirement benefits (net of tax)	207	124	727	555
Net gain on cash flow hedges (net of tax)	53	483	1,426	1,143
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	260	607	2,153	1,698
Comprehensive income, net of tax	$62,145	$58,390	$126,295	$123,571

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net tax expense of amortization of postretirement benefits	$311	$239	$1,013	$670
Net tax expense on cash flow hedges	33	302	892	715
Cleco Power [Member]
Net tax expense of amortization of postretirement benefits	130	103	455	267
Net tax expense on cash flow hedges	$33	$302	$892	$715

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$46,800	$31,020
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	3,359	8,781
Customer accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts)	56,434	39,293
Other accounts receivable	42,671	37,741
Taxes receivable, net	0	34,612
Unbilled revenue	33,629	28,662
Fuel inventory, at average cost	48,909	46,867
Material and supplies inventory, at average cost	62,450	58,232
Accumulated deferred federal and state income taxes, net	1,132	79,353
Accumulated deferred fuel	6,851	7,833
Cash surrender value of company-/trust-owned life insurance policies	62,682	57,346
Prepayments	6,326	5,951
Regulatory assets- other	6,109	11,095
Other current assets	206	552
Total current assets	377,558	447,338
Property, plant, and equipment
Property, plant, and equipment	4,272,907	4,140,194
Accumulated depreciation	-1,371,857	-1,311,273
Net property, plant, and equipment	2,901,050	2,828,921
Construction work in progress	151,254	180,540
Total property, plant, and equipment, net	3,052,304	3,009,461
Equity investment in investees	14,541	14,540
Prepayments	4,119	4,261
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	5,112	5,440
Restricted investments	12,275	10,852
Regulatory assets - deferred taxes, net	217,550	210,445
Regulatory assets - other	298,520	289,570
Net investment in direct financing lease	13,528	13,542
Intangible asset	109,552	120,545
Other deferred charges	22,458	21,355
Total assets	4,127,517	4,147,349
Current liabilities
Long-term debt due within one year	17,147	91,140
Accounts payable	86,768	102,695
Customer deposits	48,287	45,553
Provision for rate refund	2,967	4,165
Taxes payable	35,671	0
Interest accrued	24,750	12,957
Interest rate risk management liability	0	2,627
Regulatory liabilities - other	0	8,255
Deferred compensation	10,424	9,626
Uncertain tax positions	4,610	686
Other current liabilities	14,171	16,926
Total current liabilities	244,795	294,630
Deferred credits
Accumulated deferred federal and state income taxes, net	755,868	762,992
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits	5,421	6,252
Postretirement benefit obligations	156,950	186,746
Restricted storm reserve	17,309	16,285
Uncertain tax positions	0	2,184
Tax credit fund investment, net	48,806	78,840
Contingent sale obligations	900	8,150
Other deferred credits	28,564	34,799
Total deferred credits	1,013,818	1,096,248
Capitalization
Long-term debt, net	1,290,990	1,257,258
Total liabilities	2,549,603	2,648,136
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders' equity
Common stock	61,047	60,962
Premium on common stock	420,913	416,619
Retained earnings	1,145,962	1,075,074
Treasury stock, at cost	-20,683	-21,072
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-29,325	-32,370
Total shareholders' equity	1,577,914	1,499,213
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	4,127,517	4,147,349
Cleco Power [Member]
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	42,560	23,368
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	3,359	8,781
Customer accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts)	56,434	39,293
Accounts receivable - affiliate	1,260	2,991
Other accounts receivable	42,453	37,562
Unbilled revenue	33,629	28,662
Fuel inventory, at average cost	48,909	46,867
Material and supplies inventory, at average cost	59,597	55,472
Accumulated deferred federal and state income taxes, net	8,306	87,286
Accumulated deferred fuel	6,851	7,833
Cash surrender value of company-/trust-owned life insurance policies	19,234	20,842
Prepayments	4,528	4,415
Regulatory assets- other	6,109	11,095
Other current assets	0	371
Total current assets	333,229	374,838
Property, plant, and equipment
Property, plant, and equipment	4,001,194	3,871,940
Accumulated depreciation	-1,283,205	-1,227,078
Net property, plant, and equipment	2,717,989	2,644,862
Construction work in progress	147,369	176,584
Total property, plant, and equipment, net	2,865,358	2,821,446
Equity investment in investees	14,532	14,532
Prepayments	4,119	4,261
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	5,015	5,343
Restricted investments	12,275	10,852
Regulatory assets - deferred taxes, net	217,550	210,445
Regulatory assets - other	298,520	289,570
Intangible asset	109,552	120,545
Other deferred charges	21,241	19,897
Total assets	3,881,391	3,871,729
Current liabilities
Long-term debt due within one year	17,147	91,140
Accounts payable	77,529	89,782
Accounts payable - affiliate	10,240	10,097
Customer deposits	48,287	45,553
Provision for rate refund	2,967	4,165
Taxes payable	21,371	1,328
Interest accrued	26,074	13,893
Interest rate risk management liability	0	2,627
Regulatory liabilities - other	0	8,255
Other current liabilities	10,744	11,746
Total current liabilities	214,359	278,586
Deferred credits
Accumulated deferred federal and state income taxes, net	848,020	845,769
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits	5,421	6,252
Postretirement benefit obligations	106,636	137,637
Restricted storm reserve	17,309	16,285
Uncertain tax positions	0	222
Other deferred credits	27,442	34,801
Total deferred credits	1,004,828	1,040,966
Capitalization
Long-term debt, net	1,290,990	1,232,258
Member's equity	1,371,214	1,319,919
Total capitalization	2,662,204	2,552,177
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders' equity
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-18,268	-20,421
Total shareholders' equity	1,371,214	1,319,919
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$3,881,391	$3,871,729

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Customer accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$823	$1,105
Shareholders' equity
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Common stock, authorized (in shares)	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares)	61,047,006	60,961,570
Common stock, outstanding (in shares)	60,452,158	60,355,545
Treasury stock, at cost (in shares)	594,848	606,025
Cleco Power [Member]
Current assets
Customer accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$823	$1,105

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating activities
Net income	$135,572	$140,536
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	120,792	122,676
Unearned compensation expense	4,707	4,986
Allowance for other funds used during construction	-2,880	-4,298
Net deferred income taxes	60,172	8,040
Deferred fuel costs	2,906	-4,218
Cash surrender value of company-/trust-owned life insurance	-1,631	-2,841
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	-30,167	-13,247
Unbilled revenue	-4,967	-1,376
Fuel, materials and supplies inventory	-5,595	-15,943
Accounts payable	-15,691	-25,422
Customer deposits	9,777	8,772
Postretirement benefit obligations	-26,968	5,459
Regulatory assets and liabilities, net	-28,727	-30,532
Other deferred accounts	-7,480	-17,388
Taxes accrued	70,188	36,021
Interest accrued	11,793	7,616
Other operating	-2,136	5,763
Net cash provided by operating activities	289,665	224,604
Investing activities
Additions to property, plant, and equipment	-131,521	-177,146
Allowance for other funds used during construction	2,880	4,298
Property plant and equipment grants	729	15,075
Insurance reimbursement for property loss	0	5,454
Premiums paid on company-/trust-owned life insurance	-3,705	-2,733
Return of equity investment in tax credit fund	473	37,132
Contributions to tax credit fund	-38,940	-46,859
Transfer of cash from restricted accounts	5,750	19,102
Purchase of restricted investments	-6,422	-4,340
Maturity of restricted investments	5,003	0
Other investing	942	799
Net cash used in investing activities	-164,811	-149,218
Financing activities
Draws on credit facility	198,000	0
Payments on credit facility	-223,000	-10,000
Issuance of long-term debt	160,000	50,000
Retirement of long-term debt	-113,969	-74,368
Repurchase of long-term debt	-60,000	0
Repurchase of common stock	0	8,007
Settlement of interest rate swap	-3,269	0
Dividends paid on common stock	-64,448	-58,459
Other financing	-2,388	236
Net cash used in financing activities	-109,074	-100,598
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	15,780	-25,212
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	31,020	93,576
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	46,800	68,364
Supplementary cash flow information
Interest paid (net of amount capitalized)	45,464	48,212
Income taxes refunded, net	-47,318	-131
Supplementary non-cash investing and financing activities
Accrued additions to property, plant, and equipment	12,869	16,657
Non-cash additions to property, plant, and equipment	1,280	18,395
Employee Stock [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
Supplementary non-cash investing and financing activities
Issuance of common stock - ESPP	240	257
Cleco Power [Member]
Operating activities
Net income	124,142	121,873
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	114,078	102,724
Allowance for other funds used during construction	-2,880	-4,298
Net deferred income taxes	70,864	43,259
Deferred fuel costs	2,906	-4,218
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	-30,125	-13,807
Unbilled revenue	-4,967	-1,376
Fuel, materials and supplies inventory	-5,500	-15,778
Accounts payable	-12,296	-20,474
Customer deposits	9,777	8,772
Postretirement benefit obligations	-29,784	4,323
Regulatory assets and liabilities, net	-28,727	-30,532
Other deferred accounts	-10,143	-20,057
Taxes accrued	20,043	23,194
Interest accrued	12,182	9,482
Other operating	2,427	2,440
Net cash provided by operating activities	231,997	205,527
Investing activities
Additions to property, plant, and equipment	-126,977	-173,268
Allowance for other funds used during construction	2,880	4,298
Property plant and equipment grants	729	15,075
Transfer of cash from restricted accounts	5,750	19,102
Purchase of restricted investments	-6,422	-4,340
Maturity of restricted investments	5,003	0
Other investing	857	804
Net cash used in investing activities	-118,180	-138,329
Financing activities
Draws on credit facility	160,000	0
Payments on credit facility	-160,000	0
Issuance of long-term debt	160,000	50,000
Retirement of long-term debt	-113,969	-74,368
Repurchase of long-term debt	-60,000	0
Settlement of interest rate swap	-3,269	0
Distribution to parent	-75,000	-58,000
Other financing	-2,387	-1,710
Net cash used in financing activities	-94,625	-84,078
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	19,192	-16,880
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	23,368	67,458
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	42,560	50,578
Supplementary cash flow information
Interest paid (net of amount capitalized)	45,248	48,140
Income taxes refunded, net	-456	-246
Supplementary non-cash investing and financing activities
Accrued additions to property, plant, and equipment	12,591	16,141
Non-cash additions to property, plant, and equipment	$1,280	$18,395

Consolidated_Statement_of_Chan

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Common Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Stockholders' equity, Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$1,419,857	$60,702	($13,215)	$409,904	$990,605	($28,139)
Treasury stock, Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011			-410,403
Common stock issued, Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011		60,702,342
Stock Issued or Granted During Period, Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Common stock issued for compensatory plans, Value	5,776	255	136	5,385
Common stock issued for compensatory plans (in shares)		254,540	4,002
Treasury Stock Acquired [Abstract]
Repurchase of common stock, Value	-8,006		-8,006
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)			-200,000
Dividends on common stock	-58,673				-58,673
Net income	140,536				140,536
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	2,364					2,364
Stockholders' equity, Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	1,501,854	60,957	-21,085	415,289	1,072,468	-25,775
Treasury stock, Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2012			-606,401
Common stock issued, Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2012		60,956,882
Stockholders' equity, Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	1,499,213	60,962	-21,072	416,619	1,075,074	-32,370
Treasury stock, Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	-606,025		-606,025
Common stock issued, Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	60,961,570	60,961,570
Stock Issued or Granted During Period, Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Common stock issued for compensatory plans, Value	4,768	85	389	4,294
Common stock issued for compensatory plans (in shares)		85,436	11,177
Treasury Stock Acquired [Abstract]
Dividends on common stock	-64,684				-64,684
Net income	135,572				135,572
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	3,045					3,045
Stockholders' equity, Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	$1,577,914	$61,047	($20,683)	$420,913	$1,145,962	($29,325)
Treasury stock, Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2013	-594,848		-594,848
Common stock issued, Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2013	61,047,006	61,047,006

Consolidated_Statement_of_Chan1

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Common Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Dividends on common stock (in dollars per share)	$0.36	$0.34	$1.06	$0.96

Consolidated_Statement_of_Chan2

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Member's Equity (USD $)	Total	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified					Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Stockholders' equity, Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$1,419,857	$990,605	($28,139)	$1,230,862	$1,251,492	($20,630)
Increase (Decrease) in Member's Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	2,364		2,364	1,698		1,698
Distributions to parent				-58,000	-58,000
Net income	140,536	140,536		121,873	121,873
Stockholders' equity, Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	1,501,854	1,072,468	-25,775	1,296,433	1,315,365	-18,932
Stockholders' equity, Beginning Balance at Jun. 30, 2012
Increase (Decrease) in Member's Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	815			607
Net income	63,818			57,783
Stockholders' equity, Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	1,501,854			1,296,433
Stockholders' equity, Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	1,499,213	1,075,074	-32,370	1,319,919	1,340,340	-20,421
Increase (Decrease) in Member's Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	3,045		3,045	2,153		2,153
Distributions to parent				-75,000	-75,000
Net income	135,572	135,572		124,142	124,142
Stockholders' equity, Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	1,577,914	1,145,962	-29,325	1,371,214	1,389,482	-18,268
Stockholders' equity, Beginning Balance at Jun. 30, 2013
Increase (Decrease) in Member's Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	550			260
Net income	66,407			61,885
Stockholders' equity, Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	$1,577,914			$1,371,214

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Cleco include the accounts of Cleco and its majority-owned subsidiaries after elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions.
	Basis of Presentation
	The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power have been prepared in accordance with GAAP for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for annual financial statements. The year-end Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet data was derived from audited financial statements. Because the interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying notes do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for annual financial statements, the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and other information included in this quarterly report should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in the Registrants’ Combined Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, in the opinion of management, reflect all normal recurring adjustments that are necessary to fairly present the financial position and results of operations of Cleco. Amounts reported in Cleco’s interim financial statements are not necessarily indicative of amounts expected for the annual periods due to the effects of seasonal temperature variations on energy consumption, regulatory rulings, the timing of maintenance on electric generating units, changes in mark-to-market valuations, changing commodity prices, and other factors.
	In preparing financial statements that conform to GAAP, management must make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the reported amounts of revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates. For more information on recent authoritative guidance and its effect on financial results, see Note 2 — “Recent Authoritative Guidance.”
	Property, Plant, and Equipment
	Property, plant, and equipment consists primarily of regulated utility generation and energy transmission assets. Regulated assets, utilized primarily for retail operations and electric transmission and distribution, are stated at the cost of construction, which includes certain materials, labor, payroll taxes and benefits, administrative and general costs, and the estimated cost of funds used during construction. Jointly owned assets are reflected in property, plant, and equipment at Cleco Power’s share of the cost to construct or purchase the assets. Cleco’s property, plant, and equipment consisted of:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013			AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Regulated utility plants	$	4,001,194		$	3,871,940
	Other	271,713			268,254
	Total property, plant, and equipment	4,272,907			4,140,194
	Accumulated depreciation	(1,371,857		)	(1,311,273		)
	Net property, plant, and equipment	$	2,901,050		$	2,828,921
	Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Various agreements to which Cleco is subject contain covenants that restrict its use of cash. As certain provisions under these agreements are met, cash is transferred out of related escrow accounts and becomes available for its intended purposes and/or general corporate purposes. Cleco’s restricted cash and cash equivalents consisted of:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013			AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Diversified Lands’ mitigation escrow	$	97		$	97
	Cleco Katrina/Rita’s storm recovery bonds	3,359			8,781
	Cleco Power’s future storm restoration costs	4,944			5,343
	Cleco Power’s building renovation escrow	71			—
	Total restricted cash and cash equivalents	$	8,471		$	14,221
	Cleco Katrina/Rita has the right to bill and collect storm restoration costs from Cleco Power’s customers. As cash is collected, it is restricted for payment of administration fees, interest, and principal on storm recovery bonds. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, Cleco Katrina/Rita collected $14.9 million net of administration fees. In March and September 2013, Cleco Katrina/Rita used $7.1 million and $6.8 million, respectively, for scheduled storm recovery bond principal payments and $3.3 million and $3.1 million, respectively, for related interest.
	In connection with Cleco Power’s building modernization project, Cleco Power was required to establish an escrow account with a qualified financial institution and deposit all retainage monies as they accrue under the construction contract. Upon completion of the construction work, the funds including any interest held in the escrow account will be released from escrow and paid to the construction contractor.
	Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures
	Various accounting pronouncements require certain assets and liabilities to be measured at their fair values. Some assets and liabilities are required to be measured at their fair value each reporting period, while others are required to be measured only one time, generally the date of acquisition or debt issuance. Cleco and Cleco Power are required to disclose the fair value of certain assets and liabilities by one of three levels when required for recognition purposes under GAAP. For more information about fair value levels, see Note 4 — “Fair Value Accounting.”
	Risk Management
	Market risk inherent in Cleco’s market risk-sensitive instruments and positions includes potential changes arising from changes in interest rates and the commodity market prices of power and natural gas on different energy exchanges. Cleco’s Energy Market Risk Management Policy authorizes the use of various derivative instruments, including exchange traded futures and option contracts, forward purchase and sales contracts, and swap transactions to reduce exposure to fluctuations in the price of power and natural gas. Cleco applies the authoritative guidance as it relates to derivatives and hedging to determine whether the market risk-sensitive instruments and positions are required to be marked-to-market. Generally, Cleco Power’s market risk-sensitive instruments and positions qualify for the normal-purchase, normal-sale exception to mark-to-market accounting because Cleco Power takes physical delivery and the instruments and positions are used to satisfy customer requirements.
	Cleco Power may enter into positions to mitigate the volatility in customer fuel costs. These positions are marked-to-market with the resulting gain or loss recorded on the balance sheet as a component of energy risk management assets or liabilities. Such gain or loss is deferred as a component of deferred fuel assets or liabilities in accordance with regulatory policy. When these positions close, actual gains or losses will be included in the FAC and reflected on customers’ bills as a component of the fuel cost adjustment. There were no open positions at September 30, 2013 or December 31, 2012.
	Cleco and Cleco Power maintain a master netting agreement policy and monitor credit risk exposure through review of counterparty credit quality, counterparty credit exposure, and counterparty concentration levels. Cleco manages these risks by establishing appropriate credit and concentration limits on transactions with counterparties and by requiring contractual guarantees, cash deposits, or letters of credit from counterparties or their affiliates, as deemed necessary. Cleco Power has agreements in place with various counterparties that authorize the netting of financial buys and sells and contract payments to mitigate credit risk for transactions entered into for risk management purposes.
	Cleco has entered into various contracts to mitigate the volatility in interest rate risk. These contracts include, but are not limited to, interest rate swaps and treasury rate locks. For these contracts in which Cleco is hedging the variability of cash flows related to forecasted transactions that qualify as cash flow hedges, the changes in the fair value of such derivative instruments are reported in other comprehensive income. To qualify for hedge accounting, the relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item must be documented to include the risk management objective and strategy, and, at inception and on an ongoing basis, the effectiveness of the hedge in offsetting the changes in the cash flows of the item being hedged. Gains or losses accumulated in other comprehensive income are reclassified as earnings in the periods in which earnings are affected by the variability of the cash flows of the hedged item. The ineffective portions of hedges will be recognized in current period earnings unless management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered through the ratemaking process. If management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered from customers, then they will be recognized as a regulatory asset or liability and amortized to earnings over the life of the related debt. For those contracts in which Cleco is hedging the variability of cash flows related to forecasted transactions that do not qualify as cash flow hedges, the changes in the fair value of such derivative instruments will be recognized in current period earnings unless management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered from customers through the ratemaking process. If management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered from customers, then they will be recognized as a regulatory asset or liability and amortized to earnings over the life of the related debt. For more information on the interest rate risk contracts, see Note 4 — “Fair Value Accounting — Interest Rate Derivatives.”
	Earnings per Average Common Share
	The following tables show the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
											FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
								2013									2012
	(THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARES AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)	INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE			INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE
								AMOUNT									AMOUNT
	Basic net income applicable to common stock	$	66,407		60,450,384			$	1.1		$	63,818		60,346,476			$	1.06
	Effect of dilutive securities
	Add:  stock option grants				—									1,536
	Add:  restricted stock (LTICP)				298,263									251,191
	Diluted net income applicable to common stock	$	66,407		60,748,647			$	1.09		$	63,818		60,599,203			$	1.05
											FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
								2013									2012
	(THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARES AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)	INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE			INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE
								AMOUNT									AMOUNT
	Basic net income applicable to common stock	$	135,572		60,428,944			$	2.25		$	140,536		60,375,538			$	2.33
	Effect of dilutive securities
	Add:  stock option grants				—									4,518
	Add:  restricted stock (LTICP)				265,688									246,415
	Diluted net income applicable to common stock	$	135,572		60,694,632			$	2.23		$	140,536		60,626,471			$	2.32
	Stock option grants are excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share if the exercise price is higher than the average market price. There were no stock option grants excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. All stock options were exercised during 2012 and no additional options were granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
	Stock-Based Compensation
	At September 30, 2013, Cleco had two stock-based compensation plans, the ESPP and the LTICP. Substantially all employees, excluding officers and general managers, may choose to participate in the ESPP and purchase a limited amount of common stock at a discount through a stock option agreement. Options or restricted shares of stock, known as non-vested stock as defined by the authoritative guidance on stock-based compensation, common stock equivalents, and stock appreciation rights may be granted to certain officers, key employees, or directors of Cleco Corporation and its subsidiaries pursuant to the LTICP.
	During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, Cleco granted 139,048 shares of non-vested stock to certain officers, key employees, and directors of Cleco Corporation and its subsidiaries pursuant to the LTICP.
	Cleco and Cleco Power reported pre-tax compensation expense for their share-based compensation plans as shown in the following table:
		CLECO CORPORATION							CLECO POWER						CLECO CORPORATION						CLECO POWER
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,													FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012				2013			2012			2013				2012		2013		2012
	Equity classification
	Non-vested stock	$	1,585		$	1,139			$	492		$	301		$	4,487			$	3,271	$	1,204	$	792
	Stock options	—			2				—			—			—				11		—		—
Total equity classification	$	1,585		$	1,141			$	492		$	301		$	4,487			$	3,282	$	1,204	$	792
Liability classification
Common stock equivalent units	$	—		$	847			$	—		$	338		$	1			$	1,552	$	1	$	631
Total pre-tax compensation expense	$	1,585		$	1,988			$	492		$	639		$	4,488			$	4,834	$	1,205	$	1,423
Tax benefit	$	610		$	765			$	189		$	246		$	1,727			$	1,860	$	463	$	548

Recent_Authoritative_Guidance

Recent Authoritative Guidance	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Recent Authoritative Guidance
	Note 2 — Recent Authoritative Guidance
	The Registrants adopted, or will adopt, the recent authoritative guidance listed below on their respective effective dates.
	In July 2012, FASB issued guidance on testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. This guidance is intended to reduce costs and complexity of testing indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill for impairment. Entities are allowed to perform a “qualitative” assessment to determine whether further impairment testing of indefinite-lived intangible assets is necessary, similar in approach to the goodwill impairment test. The adoption of this guidance is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In January 2013, FASB clarified the scope of revised disclosure requirements related to balance sheet offsetting that was issued in December 2011. The amendment clarifies that the scope applies to derivatives accounted for in accordance with the authoritative guidance for derivatives and hedging. The adoption of this revision is required for interim and annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. The adoption of this revision did not have an impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants because it relates to disclosures, and no additional disclosures were required.
	In February 2013, FASB revised the disclosure requirements related to items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This guidance is intended to improve the transparency of changes in OCI. This revision is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2012. Cleco adopted the revisions to this amendment during the first quarter of 2013. The adoption of this revision did not have an impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants because it relates to disclosures. For more information on items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income, see Note 14 — “Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss.”
	In February 2013, FASB issued guidance for the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation is fixed at the reporting date. The adoption of this guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In April 2013, FASB issued guidance on applying the liquidation basis of accounting and the related disclosure requirements. Under this accounting standards update, an entity must use the liquidation basis of accounting to present its financial statements when it determines that liquidation is imminent, unless the liquidation is the same as that under the plan specified in an entity's governing documents created at its inception. The adoption of this standard is effective for entities that determine liquidation is imminent during annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013, and interim reporting periods therein. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have an effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In July 2013, FASB amended the guidance for derivatives and hedging to provide for the inclusion of the Fed Funds Effective Swap Rate as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for hedge accounting purposes. The adoption of this guidance is effective for qualifying new or redesignated hedging relationships entered into on or after July 17, 2013. The adoption of this guidance did not have an effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In July 2013, FASB amended the income tax guidance to provide for the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. The adoption of this guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have an effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.

Regulatory_Assets_and_Liabilit

Regulatory Assets and Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
	Note 3 — Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
	Cleco Power follows the authoritative guidance on regulated operations, which allows utilities to capitalize or defer certain costs based on regulatory approval and management’s ongoing assessment that it is probable these items will be recovered through the ratemaking process. The following table summarizes Cleco Power’s regulatory assets and liabilities at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Regulatory assets – deferred taxes, net	$	217,550	$	210,445
	Mining costs	$	14,657	$	16,569
	Interest costs	6,033		6,304
	Asset removal costs	919		867
	Postretirement plan costs	146,597		156,458
	Tree trimming costs	4,945		5,656
	Training costs	7,214		7,330
	Surcredits, net	16,738		6,211
	Construction carrying costs	—		4,697
	Lignite mining agreement contingency	3,781		3,781
	Power purchase agreement capacity costs	13,316		6,217
	AMI deferred revenue requirement	3,960		1,483
	AFUDC equity gross-up	73,518		74,158
	Rate case costs	179		581
	Acadia Unit 1 acquisition costs	2,786		2,865
	IRP/RFP costs	—		39
	AMI pilot costs	—		22
	Financing costs	9,864		7,282
	Biomass costs	122		145
	Total regulatory assets – other	$	304,629	$	300,665
	Construction carrying costs	—		(8,255		)
	Fuel and purchased power	6,851		7,833
	Total regulatory assets, net	$	529,030	$	510,688
	Surcredits, Net
	Cleco Power has recorded surcredits as the result of a settlement with the LPSC that addressed, among other things, the recovery of the storm damages related to hurricanes and uncertain tax positions. In the settlement, Cleco Power was required to implement surcredits to provide ratepayers with the economic benefit of the carrying charges of certain accumulated deferred income tax liabilities at a rate of return which was set by the LPSC. The settlement, through a true-up mechanism, allows the surcredits to be adjusted to reflect the actual tax deductions allowed by the IRS.
	Cleco Power also was allowed to record a corresponding regulatory asset in an amount representing the flow back of the carrying charges to ratepayers. This amount is being amortized over various terms of the established surcredits.
	As a result of a settlement with the LPSC, Cleco Power is required to implement a surcredit when funds are withdrawn from the restricted storm reserve. In September 2012, Cleco Power withdrew $10.0 million from the restricted storm reserve to pay for storm damages, resulting in the establishment of a new surcredit. This surcredit will be utilized to partially replenish the storm reserve.
	In the third quarter of 2013, Cleco Power recorded a true-up to the surcredits to reflect the actual tax deductions allowed by the IRS for storm damages and uncertain tax positions. As a result of the true-up, Cleco Power has recorded a regulatory asset that represents the amounts that will be collected from ratepayers in future periods.
	Construction Carrying Costs
	In February 2006, the LPSC approved Cleco Power’s plans to build Madison Unit 3. Terms of the approval included authorization for Cleco Power to collect from customers a portion of the carrying costs of capital during the construction phase of the unit. Cleco Power’s retail rate plan established that Cleco Power return carrying costs to customers and record a regulatory asset for all carrying costs incurred by Cleco Power above the actual amount collected from customers. These costs were amortized over a four-year period. As of June 30, 2013, Cleco Power had returned $166.0 million to customers, which represents all amounts due to be refunded to customers.
	Power Purchase Agreement Capacity Costs
	In March 2012, Cleco Power received approval from the LPSC for a three-year power purchase agreement with Evangeline providing 730 MW of capacity and energy beginning May 1, 2012 and ending April 30, 2015. The LPSC order allows Cleco Power to defer and recover a portion of capacity costs associated with the power purchase agreement. The deferred costs are being collected over the term of the contract.
	AMI Deferred Revenue Requirement
	In February 2011, the LPSC approved Cleco Power’s stipulated settlement in Docket No. U-31393 allowing Cleco Power to defer, as a regulatory asset, the estimated revenue requirements for the AMI project. The amount of the regulatory asset, including carrying charges, is capped by the LPSC at $20.0 million. The regulatory asset will amortize over the economic life of the project, currently estimated at 15 years.
	Financing Costs
	In 2011, Cleco Power entered into and settled two treasury rate locks. Also in 2011, Cleco Power entered into a forward starting swap contract. These derivatives were entered into in order to mitigate the interest rate exposure on coupon payments related to forecasted debt issuances. In May 2013, the forward starting interest rate swap was settled at a loss of $3.3 million. Cleco Power deferred $2.9 million of the losses as a regulatory asset. As a result of management’s assessment that it is probable that these costs will be recovered through the ratemaking process, Cleco Power is amortizing the regulatory asset over the terms of the related debt issuances.
	Fuel and Purchased Power Costs
	The cost of fuel used for electric generation and the cost of power purchased for utility customers are recovered through the LPSC-established FAC, which enables Cleco Power to pass on to its customers substantially all such charges. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, approximately 88% of Cleco Power’s total fuel cost was regulated by the LPSC, while the remainder was regulated by FERC.
	The $1.0 million decrease in the under-recovered costs was primarily due to higher fuel cost recovery revenue partially offset by an increase in per-unit costs of fuel and purchased power and higher volumes of fuel used for electric generation.

Fair_Value_Accounting

Fair Value Accounting	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Accounting
	Note 4 — Fair Value Accounting
	The amounts reflected in Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, for cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, other accounts receivable, accounts payable, and short-term debt approximate fair value because of their short-term nature.  Estimates of the fair value of Cleco and Cleco Power’s long-term debt are based upon the quoted market price for the same or similar issues or by a discounted present value analysis of future cash flows using current rates obtained by Cleco and Cleco Power for debt with similar maturities.
	The following tables summarize the carrying value and estimated market value of Cleco and Cleco Power’s financial instruments subject to fair value accounting.
	Cleco
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013						AT DEC. 31, 2012
	(THOUSANDS)	CARRYING		ESTIMATED				CARRYING			ESTIMATED
		VALUE		FAIR VALUE				VALUE			FAIR VALUE
	Financial instruments not marked-to-market:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	46,800	$	46,800			$	31,020		$	31,020
	Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$	8,471	$	8,471			$	14,221		$	14,221
	Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	$	1,306,230	$	1,419,560			$	1,345,198		$	1,579,674
	Cleco Power
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013						AT DEC. 31, 2012
	(THOUSANDS)	CARRYING		ESTIMATED				CARRYING			ESTIMATED
		VALUE		FAIR VALUE				VALUE			FAIR VALUE
	Financial instruments not marked-to-market:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	42,560	$	42,560			$	23,368		$	23,368
	Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$	8,374	$	8,374			$	14,124		$	14,124
	Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	$	1,306,230	$	1,419,560			$	1,320,198		$	1,554,674
	At September 30, 2013, Cleco and Cleco Power were exposed to concentrations of credit risk through their short-term investments classified as cash equivalents and restricted cash equivalents. Cleco had $45.6 million ($37.3 million of cash equivalents and $8.3 million of restricted cash equivalents) in short-term investments in institutional money market funds. Cleco Power had $41.8 million ($33.5 million of cash equivalents and $8.3 million of restricted cash equivalents) in short-term investments in institutional money market funds. If the money market funds fail to perform under the terms of the investments, Cleco and Cleco Power will be exposed to a loss of the invested amounts. Collateral on these types of investments is not required by either Cleco or Cleco Power.
	Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures
	The authoritative guidance on fair value measurements requires entities to classify assets and liabilities that are either measured or disclosed at their fair value according to three different levels depending on the inputs used in determining fair value.
	The following tables disclose for Cleco and Cleco Power the fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured or disclosed on a recurring basis and within the scope of the authoritative guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures.
	Cleco
		CLECO CONSOLIDATED FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS AT REPORTING DATE USING:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		QUOTED PRICES IN				SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT			AT DEC. 31, 2012			QUOTED PRICES IN			SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT
				ACTIVE MARKETS				OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE						ACTIVE MARKETS			OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE
				FOR IDENTICAL				OBSERVABLE			INPUTS						FOR IDENTICAL			OBSERVABLE			INPUTS
				ASSETS				INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)						ASSETS			INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)
				(LEVEL 1)				(LEVEL 2)									(LEVEL 1)			(LEVEL 2)
	Asset Description
	Institutional money market funds	$	47,901	$	—			$	47,901		$	—		$	39,489		$	—		$	39,489		$	—
	Municipal bonds	9,631		—				9,631			—			10,203			—			10,203			—
	Corporate bonds	513		—				513			—			—			—			—			—
	Total assets	$	58,045	$	—			$	58,045		$	—		$	49,692		$	—		$	49,692		$	—
	Liability Description
	Interest rate derivatives	$	—	$	—			$	—		$	—		$	2,627		$	—		$	2,627		$	—
	Long-term debt	1,419,560		—				1,419,560			—			1,579,674			—			1,579,674			—
	Total liabilities	$	1,419,560	$	—			$	1,419,560		$	—		$	1,582,301		$	—		$	1,582,301		$	—
	Cleco Power
		CLECO POWER FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS AT REPORTING DATE USING:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		QUOTED PRICES IN				SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT			AT DEC. 31, 2012			QUOTED PRICES IN			SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT
				ACTIVE MARKETS				OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE						ACTIVE MARKETS			OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE
				FOR IDENTICAL				OBSERVABLE			INPUTS						FOR IDENTICAL			OBSERVABLE			INPUTS
				ASSETS				INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)						ASSETS			INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)
				(LEVEL 1)				(LEVEL 2)									(LEVEL 1)			(LEVEL 2)
	Asset Description
	Institutional money market funds	$	44,005	$	—			$	44,005		$	—		$	33,292		$	—		$	33,292		$	—
	Municipal bonds	9,631		—				9,631			—			10,203			—			10,203			—
	Corporate bonds	513		—				513			—			—			—			—			—
	Total assets	$	54,149	$	—			$	54,149		$	—		$	43,495		$	—		$	43,495		$	—
	Liability Description
	Interest rate derivatives	$	—	$	—			$	—		$	—		$	2,627		$	—		$	2,627		$	—
	Long-term debt	1,419,560		—				1,419,560			—			1,554,674			—			1,554,674			—
	Total liabilities	$	1,419,560	$	—			$	1,419,560		$	—		$	1,557,301		$	—		$	1,557,301		$	—
	Cleco utilizes different valuation techniques for fair value calculations. In order to measure the fair value for Level 1 assets and liabilities, Cleco obtains the closing price from published indices in active markets for the various instruments and multiplies this price by the appropriate number of instruments held. Cleco had no Level 1 assets or liabilities at September 30, 2013 or December 31, 2012. Level 2 fair values for assets and liabilities are determined by obtaining the closing price from published indices in active markets for instruments that are similar to Cleco’s assets and liabilities. The fair value obtained is then discounted to the current period using a U.S. Treasury published interest rate as a proxy for a risk-free rate of return. For some options, Cleco uses the Black-Scholes model using observable and available inputs to calculate the fair value, consistent with the income approach. These techniques have been applied consistently for each fiscal period. Level 3 fair values allow for situations in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date. Cleco had no Level 3 assets or liabilities at September 30, 2013 or December 31, 2012.
	The assets and liabilities reported at fair value are grouped into classes based on the underlying nature and risks associated with the individual asset or liability.
	The institutional money market funds were reported on the Cleco Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet in cash and cash equivalents, current restricted cash and cash equivalents, non-current restricted cash and cash equivalents, and restricted investments of $37.3 million, $3.4 million, $5.1 million, and $2.1 million, respectively, at September 30, 2013. At Cleco Power, the institutional money market funds were reported on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet in cash and cash equivalents, current restricted cash and cash equivalents, non-current restricted cash and cash equivalents, and restricted investments and were $33.5 million, $3.4 million, $5.0 million, and $2.1 million, respectively, at September 30, 2013. The Level 2 institutional money market funds asset consists of a single class. In order to capture interest income and minimize risk, cash is invested in money market funds that invest primarily in short-term securities issued by the U.S. Treasury in order to maintain liquidity and achieve the goal of a net asset value of a dollar. The risks associated with this class are counterparty risk of the fund manager and risk of price volatility associated with the underlying securities of the fund.
	The municipal and corporate bonds were reported on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets in restricted investments in the amount of $9.6 million and $0.5 million at September 30, 2013, respectively. The Level 2 municipal bonds and the Level 2 corporate bonds consisted of a single class. In order to maximize income, meet the requirements established by the LPSC, and maintain safety and liquidity for the restricted reserve fund, restricted cash and cash equivalents were invested in short-term, fixed-income debt instruments. The risks associated with this class are counterparty risk of the fund manager and risk of price volatility associated with the municipal bonds and corporate bonds. Quarterly, Cleco receives reports from the custody agent for the investment manager which provides the fair value measurement. Cleco performs an evaluation of those reports to verify the fair value of the securities.
	The Level 2 interest rate derivative was one forward starting interest rate swap liability that consisted of a single class that contained only one instrument. The risks were changes in the three-month LIBOR rate and counterparty risk. This instrument was with a direct counterparty and not traded through an exchange.
	The Level 2 long-term debt liability consists of a single class. In order to fund capital requirements, Cleco issues long-term, fixed and variable rate debt with various tenors. The fair value of this class fluctuates as the market interest rates for fixed and variable rate debt with similar tenors and credit ratings change. The fair value of the debt could also change from period to period due to changes in the credit rating of the Cleco entity that issued the debt.
	During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, and the year ended December 31, 2012, Cleco did not experience any transfers between levels.
	Restricted Investments
In September 2007, the LPSC authorized the funding and securitization of a $50.0 million reserve for Cleco Power’s future storm costs. On July 1, 2012, Cleco Power transferred $13.0 million of the related restricted cash and cash equivalents to an outside investment manager. Investments made by the investment manager are restricted to the criteria established by management in Cleco Power’s guidelines for short-term investments. At September 30, 2013, the investments included cash and cash equivalents and debt securities.
The cash and cash equivalents are reflected in Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2013, as restricted cash and cash equivalents and approximate fair value because of their short-term nature.
The debt securities are recorded at fair value on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2013, as restricted investments. The investments in debt securities include municipal bonds, corporate bonds, and commercial paper with original maturity dates of more than three months and are classified as available-for-sale securities and reported at fair value. Because Cleco Power’s investment strategy for these investments is within the requirements established by the LPSC for the restricted reserve fund, realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest income, investment management fees, and custody fees are recorded directly to Cleco Power’s restricted storm reserve rather than in earnings or other comprehensive income. As a result, no amounts will be recorded to other comprehensive income for these investments.
Quarterly, Cleco Power’s available-for-sale debt securities are evaluated on an individual basis to determine if a decline in fair value below the carrying value is other-than-temporary.
Management determines whether it intends to sell or if it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell impaired securities. This determination considers current and forecasted liquidity and regulatory requirements. For Cleco Power’s impaired debt securities for which there was no intent or expected requirement to sell, the evaluation assesses whether it is likely the amortized cost will be recovered considering the nature of the securities, credit rating, financial condition of the issuer, or the extent and duration of the unrealized loss and market conditions. If Cleco Power determines that an other-than-temporary decline in value exists on its debt securities, the investments would be written down to fair value with a new basis established. Declines in fair value below cost basis that are determined to be other-than-temporary would be recorded to Cleco Power’s restricted storm reserve. The unrealized losses on Cleco Power’s debt securities as of September 30, 2013, were caused by interest rate movements. Cleco Power does not intend to sell the debt securities and has determined it is more likely than not that it will not be required to sell the investments before recovery of the amortized cost value. Cleco Power determined there were no other-than-temporary impairments on its debt securities at September 30, 2013.
The following table provides a reconciliation of Cleco Power’s available-for-sale debt securities from amortized cost to fair value at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
	AT SEPT. 30, 2013													AT DEC. 31, 2012
(THOUSANDS)	AMORTIZED		TOTAL					TOTAL			FAIR VALUE			AMORTIZED			TOTAL			TOTAL			FAIR VALUE
	COST		UNREALIZED GAINS (1)					UNREALIZED						COST			UNREALIZED GAINS (1)			UNREALIZED
								LOSSES (1)												LOSSES (1)
Municipal bonds	$	9,641	$	5				$	15		$	9,631		$	10,228		$	3		$	28		$	10,203
Corporate bonds	515		—					2			513			—			—			—			—
Commercial paper	2,131		—			—		—			2,131			649			—			—			649
Total available-for-sale debt securities	$	12,287	$	5				$	17		$	12,275		$	10,877		$	3		$	28		$	10,852
(1)  Unrealized gains and losses are recorded to the restricted storm reserve.
Cleco Power recognized less than $0.1 million unrealized mark-to-market gains in the restricted storm reserve for both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013. Cleco Power recognized less than $0.1 million unrealized mark-to-market losses in the restricted storm reserve for both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012.
The following table summarizes the debt securities that were in an unrealized loss position at September 30, 2013, but for which no other-than-temporary impairment was recognized:
	LESS THAN 12 MONTHS						12 MONTHS OR LONGER
(THOUSANDS)	AGGREGATE UNREALIZED		AGGREGATE				AGGREGATE UNREALIZED			AGGREGATE
	LOSS		RELATED				LOSS			RELATED
			FAIR VALUE							FAIR VALUE
Municipal bonds	$	7	$	2,698			$	8		$	2,518
Corporate bonds	2		513				—			—
Total	$	9	$	3,211			$	8		$	2,518
At September 30, 2013, the fair value of Cleco Power’s available-for-sale debt securities by contractual maturity was:
(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013
One year or less	$	5,740
Over one year through five years	6,535
Total fair value	$	12,275
There were no realized gains or losses on Cleco Power’s available-for-sale debt securities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. Realized gains and losses will be determined on a specific identification basis.
Derivatives and Hedging
The authoritative guidance on derivatives and hedging requires entities to provide transparent disclosures about a company’s derivative activities and how the related hedged items affect a company’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. Cleco is required to provide qualitative and quantitative disclosures about derivative fair value, gains and losses, and credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, there was no effect on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, Cleco and Cleco Power recognized losses in Fuel used for electric generation on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income of $0.6 million and $8.2 million, respectively, for derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. In accordance with the authoritative guidance for regulated operations, there were no unrealized gains or losses and no deferred losses associated with fuel cost hedges reported in Accumulated deferred fuel on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As gains and losses are realized in future periods, they will be reported as Fuel used for electric generation on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
At December 31, 2012, Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets had no derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.
At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, Cleco Power had no open positions hedged for natural gas.
In November 2011, Cleco Power entered into a pay fixed/receive variable forward starting interest rate swap contract in order to mitigate the interest rate exposure on coupon payments related to the remaining $50.0 million fixed-rate forecasted debt issuance. The forward starting interest rate swap had a spot 30-year all-in swap rate of 3.05%, notional amount of $50.0 million, with the pricing date of May 14, 2013, or the issuance of the notes, whichever was earlier. The forward starting interest rate swap met the criteria of a cash flow hedge under the authoritative guidance as it related to derivatives and hedging and was carried on the balance sheet at its fair value. Because of the inputs and common techniques used to calculate fair value, the swap valuation was considered Level 2.
During the first quarter of 2013, Cleco determined that the forward starting interest rate swap ceased to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the forecasted coupon payments and discontinued hedge accounting prospectively. In May 2013, upon pricing of the 2008 Series B GO Zone bonds, Cleco Power settled the forward starting interest rate swap at a loss of $3.3 million. Of this amount, Cleco Power deferred $2.9 million as a regulatory asset and recognized $0.4 million in other comprehensive income. In May 2013, Cleco Power began amortizing these losses over the 25-year term of the related debt. For more information about the 2008 Series B GO Zone bonds, see Note 5 — “Debt.”
The following table presents the effect of derivatives designated as hedging instruments on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.
	FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	2013						2012
(THOUSANDS)	AMOUNT		AMOUNT OF LOSS				AMOUNT			AMOUNT OF GAIN
	OF GAIN		RECLASSIFIED FROM				OF GAIN			RECLASSIFIED FROM
	RECOGNIZED		ACCUMULATED OCI				RECOGNIZED			ACCUMULATED OCI
	IN OCI		INTO INCOME				IN OCI			INTO INCOME
			(EFFECTIVE PORTION)							(EFFECTIVE PORTION)
Interest rate	$	—	$	(86	)*		$	802		$	17	*
derivatives (1)
* The (loss) gain reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (effective portion) is reflected in interest charges.
(1) During the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, Cleco had no ineffectiveness and losses related to the interest rate derivatives recorded as a regulatory asset.
	FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	2013						2012
(THOUSANDS)	AMOUNT		AMOUNT OF LOSS				AMOUNT			AMOUNT OF LOSS
	OF GAIN		RECLASSIFIED FROM				OF LOSS			RECLASSIFIED FROM
	RECOGNIZED		ACCUMULATED OCI				RECOGNIZED			ACCUMULATED OCI
	IN OCI		INTO INCOME				IN OCI			INTO INCOME
			(EFFECTIVE PORTION)							(EFFECTIVE PORTION)
Interest rate	$	1,762	$	(165	)*		$	(733	)	$	(39	)*
derivatives (1)
* The loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (effective portion) is reflected in interest charges.
(1) During the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, Cleco recorded ineffectiveness and losses related to the interest rate derivatives as a regulatory asset of $3.3 million and $2.6 million, respectively.
At September 30, 2013, Cleco Power expected $0.3 million of the effective portion of deferred net losses related to interest rate derivatives to be reclassed from accumulated OCI to interest charges over the next 12 months.

Debt

Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt
	Note 5 — Debt
	Short-term Debt
	At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, Cleco and Cleco Power had no short-term debt outstanding.
	Long-term Debt
	At September 30, 2013, Cleco’s long-term debt outstanding was $1.31 billion, of which $17.1 million was due within one year. The long-term debt due within one year at September 30, 2013, represents $14.9 million principal payments for the Cleco Katrina/Rita storm recovery bonds and $2.2 million of capital lease payments.
	For Cleco, long-term debt decreased $40.3 million from December 31, 2012, primarily due to a $75.0 million repayment of senior notes, $60.0 million of solid waste disposal bonds reacquired in March 2013, a $25.0 million reduction in credit facility draws, $14.0 million scheduled Cleco Katrina/Rita storm recovery bond principal payments made in March and September 2013, and a $1.6 million decrease in capital lease obligations. These decreases were partially offset by $35.0 million outstanding on a bank term loan entered into in March 2013, the issuance of $50.0 million 2008 Series A GO Zone bonds and $50.0 million 2008 Series B GO Zone bonds in May 2013, and debt discount amortizations of $0.3 million.
	At September 30, 2013, Cleco Power’s long-term debt outstanding was $1.31 billion of which $17.1 million was due within one year. The long-term debt due within one year at September 30, 2013, represents $14.9 million principal payments for the Cleco Katrina/Rita storm recovery bonds and $2.2 million of capital lease payments.
	For Cleco Power, long-term debt decreased $15.3 million from December 31, 2012, primarily due to a $75.0 million repayment of senior notes, $60.0 million of solid waste disposal bonds reacquired in March 2013, $14.0 million scheduled Cleco Katrina/Rita storm recovery bond principal payments made in March and September 2013, and a $1.6 million decrease in capital lease obligations. These decreases were partially offset by $35.0 million outstanding on a bank term loan entered into in March 2013, the issuance of $50.0 million 2008 Series A GO Zone bonds and $50.0 million 2008 Series B GO Zone bonds in May 2013, and debt discount amortizations of $0.3 million.
	Cleco Power’s $60.0 million solid waste disposal facility bonds due 2037, which were issued by the Rapides Finance Authority for the benefit of Cleco Power in November 2007, were required to be mandatorily tendered by the bondholders for purchase on March 1, 2013, pursuant to the terms of the indenture. The bonds were issued in connection with a loan agreement between the Rapides Finance Authority and Cleco Power. On March 1, 2013, Cleco Power purchased all $60.0 million outstanding bonds at face value plus $1.6 million of accrued interest, using draws under Cleco Power’s revolving credit facility. In connection with the purchase, the interest rate of the bonds will reset each week based on the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association index. The initial interest rate of the bonds at March 1, 2013, was 0.11% per annum. Interest expense will continue to be recorded with a corresponding amount recorded as interest income, excluding amortization of debt issuance costs. Although the bonds remain outstanding, Cleco Power has the right to redeem and cancel the debt at any time without approval of the Rapides Finance Authority. In accordance with the authoritative guidance, the bonds are considered extinguished and Cleco Power is holding the debt as treasury bonds, resulting in a net presentation on Cleco and Cleco Power's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Cleco Power has the option to remarket the bonds for new terms and new interest rates, both to be determined by market conditions.
	On March 20, 2013, Cleco Power entered into a bank term loan agreement in the amount of $60.0 million. Proceeds of the loan agreement were used to repay draws under Cleco Power’s revolving credit facility. Cleco Power made a $25.0 million payment on the loan on May 8, 2013, reducing the balance outstanding to $35.0 million. The interest rate under the agreement at September 30, 2013, was 0.93%. The rate resets monthly at one month LIBOR, plus 0.75%. The loan matures on May 29, 2015.
	On May 3, 2013, Cleco Power remarketed $50.0 million of its 2008 Series A GO Zone bonds which had previously been purchased by Cleco Power and were being held as treasury bonds. The interest rate at September 30, 2013, was 0.94% which is based on 65% of one month LIBOR, plus 0.82%. The rate resets monthly. The 2008 Series A GO Zone bonds will be subject to remarketing on May 3, 2015. Of the $50.0 million bonds, $25.0 million of the proceeds were used to fund the partial repayment of the $60.0 million solid waste disposal bonds described above and $25.0 million of the proceeds were used to partially fund the maturity of Cleco Power’s $75.0 million 5.375% senior notes on May 1, 2013.
	On May 8, 2013, Cleco Power remarketed $50.0 million of its 2008 Series B GO Zone bonds which had previously been purchased by Cleco Power and were being held as treasury bonds, at a fixed interest rate of 4.25%. The 2008 Series B GO Zone bonds mature on December 1, 2038. The proceeds were used to partially fund the maturity of Cleco Power's $75.0 million 5.375% senior notes on May 1, 2013.
	Credit Facilities
	At September 30, 2013, Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power had no borrowings outstanding under their respective existing $250.0 million and $300.0 million credit facilities.
	On October 16, 2013, Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power entered into new, amended and restated credit facilities with a maturity date of October 16, 2018. The new facilities replace the previous facilities, which were to mature on October 7, 2016. The new facilities are comprised of the same ten banks, plus one additional bank. The new facilities are priced the same as the old facilities and are for the same amounts.

Pension_Plan_and_Employee_Bene

Pension Plan and Employee Benefits	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension Plan and Employee Benefits
	Note 6 — Pension Plan and Employee Benefits
	Pension Plan and Other Benefits Plan
	Most employees hired before August 1, 2007, are covered by a non-contributory, defined benefit pension plan. Benefits under the plan reflect an employee’s years of service, age at retirement, and highest total average compensation for any consecutive five calendar years during the last ten years of employment with Cleco. Cleco’s policy is to base its contributions to the employee pension plan upon actuarial computations utilizing the projected unit credit method, subject to the IRS’s full funding limitation. In January 2013, Cleco Power made $34.0 million in discretionary contributions to the pension plan designated for the 2012 plan year. Cleco does not expect to make any additional discretionary contributions to the pension plan for the remainder of the year. During 2012, Cleco made no discretionary or required contributions to the pension plan. The required contributions are driven by liability funding target percentages set by law which could cause the required contributions to be uneven among the years. The ultimate amount and timing of the contributions may be affected by changes in the discount rate, changes in the funding regulations, and actual returns on fund assets. Cleco Power is considered the plan sponsor and Support Group is considered the plan administrator.
	Cleco’s retirees and their dependents are eligible to receive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits (other benefits). Cleco recognizes the expected cost of these other benefits during the periods in which the benefits are earned.
	The components of net periodic pension and other benefit cost for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, are as follows:
		PENSION BENEFITS						OTHER BENEFITS
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	Components of periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	2,472		$	2,078		$	614	$	303
	Interest cost	4,485			4,563			214		334
	Expected return on plan assets	(5,861		)	(5,201		)	—		—
	Amortizations:
	Transition obligation	—			—			6		5
	Prior period service credit	(18		)	(18		)	—		—
	Net loss	3,304			2,087			213		112
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	4,382		$	3,509		$	1,047	$	754
		PENSION BENEFITS						OTHER BENEFITS
		FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	Components of periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	7,417		$	6,234		$	1,242	$	1,096
	Interest cost	13,455			13,690			1,176		1,287
	Expected return on plan assets	(17,584		)	(15,604		)	—		—
	Amortizations:
	Transition obligation	—			—			15		15
	Prior period service credit	(53		)	(53		)	—		—
	Net loss	9,913			6,259			849		512
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	13,148		$	10,526		$	3,282	$	2,910
	Because Cleco Power is the pension plan sponsor and the related trust holds the assets, the net unfunded status of the pension plan is reflected at Cleco Power. The liability of Cleco’s other subsidiaries is transferred with a like amount of assets to Cleco Power monthly. The expense of the pension plan related to Cleco’s other subsidiaries for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, was $0.6 million and $1.9 million, respectively. The amounts for the same periods in 2012 were $0.5 million and $1.6 million, respectively.
	Cleco Corporation is the plan sponsor for the other benefit plans. There are no assets set aside in a trust and the liabilities are reported on the individual subsidiaries’ financial statements. The current portion of the other benefits liability for Cleco was $3.1 million at September 30, 2013. The amount at December 31, 2012, was also $3.1 million. The current portion of the other benefits liability for Cleco Power was $2.9 million at September 30, 2013. The amount at December 31, 2012, was also $2.9 million. The expense related to other benefits reflected in Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, was $0.9 million and $2.8 million, respectively. The amounts for the same periods in 2012 were $0.7 million and $2.5 million, respectively.
	SERP
	Certain Cleco officers are covered by the SERP. The SERP is a non-qualified, non-contributory, defined-benefit pension plan. Benefits under the plan reflect an employee’s years of service, age at retirement, and the sum of the highest base salary paid out of the last five calendar years plus the average of the three highest bonuses paid during the 60 months prior to retirement, reduced by benefits received from any other defined benefit pension plan, SERP Plan, or Cleco contributions under the enhanced 401(k) Plan to the extent such contributions exceed the limits of the 401(k) Plan. Cleco does not fund the SERP liability but instead pays for current benefits out of the general funds available. Cleco Power has formed a Rabbi Trust designated as the beneficiary for life insurance policies issued on the SERP participants. Proceeds from the life insurance policies are expected to be used to pay the SERP participants’ life insurance benefits, as well as future SERP payments. However, because SERP is a non-qualified plan, the assets of the trust could be used to satisfy general creditors of Cleco Power in the event of insolvency. All SERP benefits are paid out of the general cash available of the respective companies from which the officer retired. No contributions to the SERP were made during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 or 2012. Cleco Power is considered the plan sponsor and Support Group is considered the plan administrator. The components of net periodic SERP benefit cost for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, are as follows:
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,						FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	Components of periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	514		$	372		$	1,541	$	1,115
	Interest cost	645			632			1,934		1,895
	Amortizations:
	Prior period service cost	13			13			40		40
	Net loss	576			441			1,728		1,324
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,748		$	1,458		$	5,243	$	4,374
	The SERP liabilities are reported on the individual subsidiaries’ financial statements. At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the current portion of the SERP liability for Cleco was $2.7 million and $2.5 million, respectively. The current portion of the SERP liability for Cleco Power was $0.8 million at September 30, 2013. The amount at December 31, 2012, was also $0.8 million. The expense related to the SERP reflected on Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income was $0.4 million and $1.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $0.4 million and $1.1 million for the same period in 2012.
	401(k) Plan
	Most employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan. Under the 401(k) Plan, Cleco makes matching contributions and funds dividend reinvestments with cash. Cleco’s 401(k) Plan expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,						FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	401(k) Plan expense	$	936		$	963		$	3,361	$	3,303
	Cleco Power is the plan sponsor for the 401(k) Plan. The expense of the 401(k) Plan related to Cleco’s other subsidiaries for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, was $0.2 million and $0.8 million, respectively. The amounts for the same periods in 2012 were also $0.2 million and $0.8 million, respectively.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes
	Note 7 — Income Taxes
	The following table summarizes the effective income tax rates for Cleco and Cleco Power for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,					FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
		2013		2012			2013			2012
	Cleco	34.1	%	24	%		33	%		27.8	%
	Cleco Power	35	%	25.5	%		34.6	%		31	%
	Effective Tax Rates
	For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, the effective income tax rate for Cleco was different than the federal statutory rate due to permanent tax deductions, flowthrough benefits associated with AFUDC equity, tax benefits delivered from Cleco’s investment in the NMTC Fund, an increase in the liability for uncertain tax positions, a favorable settlement with taxing authorities, adjustments for tax returns as filed, and state tax expense.
	For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the effective income tax rate for Cleco increased due to a decrease in permanent tax deductions, a decrease in flowthrough benefits associated with AFUDC equity, a decrease in tax benefits delivered from Cleco's investment in the NMTC Fund, an increase in the liability for uncertain tax positions, and the absence of a favorable settlement with taxing authorities.
	For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, the effective income tax rate for Cleco Power was different than the federal statutory rate due to permanent tax deductions, flowthrough benefits associated with AFUDC equity, a decrease in the liability for uncertain tax positions, a favorable settlement with taxing authorities, adjustments for tax returns as filed, and state tax expense.
	For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the effective income tax rate for Cleco Power increased due to a decrease in permanent tax deductions, a decrease in flowthrough benefits associated with AFUDC equity, and the absence of a favorable settlement with taxing authorities.
	Valuation Allowance
	Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized. As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, Cleco had a deferred tax asset resulting from NMTC carryforwards of $91.2 million and $78.8 million, respectively. If the NMTC carryforwards are not utilized, they will begin to expire in 2029. Management considers it more likely than not that all deferred tax assets related to NMTC carryforwards will be realized; therefore, no valuation allowance has been recorded.
	Net Operating Losses
	As of September 30, 2013, Cleco had a net operating loss carryforward primarily related to a tax accounting method change for bonus depreciation associated with Madison Unit 3. Cleco considers it more likely than not that these income tax losses generated will be utilized to reduce future income taxes. Cleco expects to utilize the entire net operating loss carryforward within the statutory deadlines.
	Uncertain Tax Positions
	Cleco classifies all interest related to uncertain tax positions as a component of interest payable and interest expense. The total amounts of uncertain tax positions and related interest payable and interest expense, as reflected on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Income, are shown in the following tables.
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013			AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Interest payable
	Cleco	$	2,069		$	1,420
	Cleco Power	$	3,712		$	3,358
	The interest payable reflects the amount of interest anticipated to be paid to taxing authorities. These amounts do not include any offset for amounts that may be recovered from customers under existing rate orders. The amounts expected to be recoverable from Cleco Power’s customers under existing rate orders at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, are $8.4 million and $6.2 million, respectively.
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,							FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012				2013			2012
	Interest charges
	Cleco	$	174		$	(121	)		$	(116	)	$	(8,477	)
	Cleco Power	$	113		$	133			$	354		$	(9,504	)
	The interest charges reflect the amount of interest anticipated to be paid to or received from taxing authorities. These amounts do not include any offset for the amounts that may be recovered from or owed to customers under the existing rate orders.
	The federal income tax years that remain subject to examination by the IRS are 2007 through 2012. The Louisiana state income tax years that remain subject to examination by the Louisiana Department of Revenue are 2002 through 2011. At December 31, 2012, Cleco had $60.4 million deposited with the IRS, of which $43.5 million remained to either offset tax and interest liabilities for tax years subsequent to 2003 or to be refunded. Cleco received a refund of tax and interest in January 2013 from the IRS of $42.3 million relating to tax years 2001 through 2008.
	Cleco is currently under audit by the IRS for the years 2010 through 2012. During the third quarter of 2013, Cleco increased its liability for uncertain tax positions. In addition, Cleco reclassified all uncertain tax positions to current from noncurrent as it expects to settle all outstanding audits within the next 12 months. Cleco estimates that it is reasonably possible that the balance of unrecognized tax benefits as of September 30, 2013, could decrease by a maximum of $4.6 million for Cleco and the balance for Cleco Power would be unchanged in the next 12 months as a result of reaching settlements with the IRS and state tax authorities. The settlements could involve the payment of additional taxes, the adjustment of deferred taxes, and/or the recognition of tax benefits, which may have an effect on Cleco’s effective tax rate.
	Cleco classifies income tax penalties as a component of other expense. During 2013 and 2012, the amount of penalties recognized was immaterial.

Disclosures_about_Segments

Disclosures about Segments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Disclosures about Segments
	Note 8 — Disclosures about Segments
	Cleco’s reportable segments are based on its method of internal reporting, which disaggregates business units by its first-tier subsidiary. Cleco’s reportable segments are Cleco Power and Midstream. The holding company, a shared services subsidiary, two transmission interconnection facility subsidiaries, and an investment subsidiary are shown as Other in the following tables.
	Each reportable segment engages in business activities from which it earns revenue and incurs expenses. Segment managers report periodically to Cleco’s Chief Executive Officer (the chief operating decision-maker) with discrete financial information and, at least quarterly, present discrete financial information to Cleco Corporation’s Board of Directors. Each reportable segment prepared budgets for 2013 that were presented to and approved by Cleco Corporation’s Board of Directors.
	The financial results of Cleco’s segments are presented on an accrual basis. Management evaluates the performance of its segments and allocates resources to them based on segment profit and the requirements to implement new strategic initiatives and projects to meet current business objectives. Material intercompany transactions occur on a regular basis. These intercompany transactions relate primarily to the power purchase agreement between Cleco Power and Evangeline that began in 2012 and joint and common administrative support services provided by Support Group.
	SEGMENT INFORMATION FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	2013 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	314,766		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	314,766
	Tolling operations	—			12,339			—			(12,339		)	—
	Other operations	14,301			1			541			—			14,843
	Electric customer credits	(846		)	—			—			—			(846		)
	Affiliate revenue	335			—			13,313			(13,648		)	—
	Operating revenue, net	$	328,556		$	12,340		$	13,854		$	(25,987	)	$	328,763
	Depreciation	$	39,962		$	1,522		$	272		$	—		$	41,756
	Interest charges	$	18,656		$	312		$	(110	)	$	156		$	19,014
	Interest income	$	331		$	—		$	(156	)	$	157		$	332
	Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	33,355		$	4,083		$	(3,048	)	$	(1	)	$	34,389
	Net income	$	61,885		$	1,164		$	3,358		$	—		$	66,407
	Additions to long-lived assets	$	38,585		$	337		$	358		$	—		$	39,280
	Equity investment in investees	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	1		$	14,541
	Total segment assets	$	3,881,391		$	219,028		$	106,158		$	(79,060	)	$	4,127,517
	2012 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	282,894		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	282,894
	Tolling operations	—			13,890			—			(13,890		)	—
	Other operations	14,905			1			502			—			15,408
	Electric customer credits	(930		)	—			—			—			(930		)
	Affiliate revenue	343			—			12,343			(12,686		)	$	—
	Operating revenue, net	$	297,212		$	13,891		$	12,845		$	(26,576	)	$	297,372
	Depreciation	$	33,199		$	1,499		$	233		$	—		$	34,931
	Interest charges	$	21,962		$	(69	)	$	(124	)	$	197		$	21,966
	Interest income	$	129		$	—		$	(194	)	$	197		$	132
	Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	19,740		$	2,489		$	(2,050	)	$	—		$	20,179
	Net income	$	57,783		$	3,429		$	2,606		$	—		$	63,818
	Additions to long-lived assets	$	65,073		$	799		$	503		$	—		$	66,375
	Equity investment in investees (1)	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	—		$	14,540
	Total segment assets  (1)	$	3,871,729		$	215,342		$	201,678		$	(141,400	)	$	4,147,349
	(1) Balances as of December 31, 2012
	SEGMENT INFORMATION FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	2013 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	796,957		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	796,957
	Tolling operations	—			26,483			—			(26,483		)	—
	Other operations	36,366			2			1,550			(1		)	37,917
	Electric customer credits	(1,270		)	—			—			—			(1,270		)
	Affiliate revenue	1,005			—			40,406			(41,411		)	—
	Operating revenue	$	833,058		$	26,485		$	41,956		$	(67,895	)	$	833,604
	Depreciation	$	105,251		$	4,523		$	755		$	—		$	110,529
	Interest charges	$	60,882		$	(338	)	$	334		$	480		$	61,358
	Interest income	$	784		$	—		$	(474	)	$	479		$	789
	Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	65,558		$	7,221		$	(5,887	)	$	—		$	66,892
	Net income	$	124,142		$	6,180		$	5,251		$	(1	)	$	135,572
	Additions to long-lived assets	$	124,731		$	2,664		$	1,629		$	—		$	129,024
	Equity investment in investees	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	1		$	14,541
	Total segment assets	$	3,881,391		$	219,028		$	106,158		$	(79,060	)	$	4,127,517
	2012 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	720,776		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	720,776
	Tolling operations	—			21,434			—			(21,434		)	—
	Other operations	36,967			2			1,496			(1		)	38,464
	Electric customer credits	1,025			—			—			—			1,025
	Affiliate revenue	1,030			—			37,540			(38,570		)	—
	Operating revenue	$	759,798		$	21,436		$	39,036		$	(60,005	)	$	760,265
Depreciation	$	93,847		$	4,491		$	689		$	1		$	99,028
Interest charges	$	61,253		$	244		$	1,320		$	388		$	63,205
Interest income	$	153		$	—		$	(379	)	$	389		$	163
Equity income from investees, before tax	$	—		$	—		$	1		$	—		$	1
Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	54,748		$	7,278		$	(7,916	)	$	—		$	54,110
Net income	$	121,873		$	11,053		$	7,610		$	—		$	140,536
Additions to long-lived assets	$	159,836		$	6,811		$	1,371		$	—		$	168,018
Equity investment in investees (1)	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	—		$	14,540
Total segment assets (1)	$	3,871,729		$	215,342		$	201,678		$	(141,400	)	$	4,147,349
(1) Balances as of December 31, 2012

Electric_Customer_Credits

Electric Customer Credits	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Regulated Operations [Abstract]
Electric Customer Credits
	Note 9 — Electric Customer Credits
	The current amount of Cleco Power’s annual retail earnings is subject to the terms of an FRP established by the LPSC effective February 12, 2010. The FRP allows Cleco Power the opportunity to earn a target return on equity of 10.7%, including returning to retail customers 60% of retail earnings between 11.3% and 12.3% and all retail earnings over 12.3%. The amount of credits due customers, if any, is determined by Cleco Power and the LPSC annually. Cleco Power must file annual monitoring reports no later than October 31 for the 12-month period ending June 30. In April 2013, Cleco Power filed an application with the LPSC to extend its current FRP and seek rate recovery of Coughlin. Cleco Power requested in its application that the FRP extension be effective through June 2020. The docket is currently in the discovery phase. The procedural schedule currently anticipates LPSC testimony by mid-November 2013. Cleco Power expects LPSC action on this request by the second quarter of 2014.
	On October 31, 2012, Cleco Power filed its report for the 12 months ended June 30, 2012, which indicated that $1.7 million was due to be returned to customers. On June 26, 2013, the LPSC approved the monitoring report for the 12 months ended June 30, 2012, with a recommended adjusted refund of $2.4 million. The increase in refund was the result of changes to revenue requirements for certain FRP Rider items. Cleco Power issued refunds on customers’ bills in the third quarter of 2013. Cleco Power expects to file its monitoring report for the 12 months ended June 30, 2013 on or before October 31, 2013, which will indicate that $2.2 million is due to be returned to customers. Cleco Power has accrued for this anticipated refund at September 30, 2013. The accrual for estimated electric customer credits reflected on Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, was $3.0 million and $4.2 million, respectively.

Variable_Interest_Entities

Variable Interest Entities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entities
	Note 10 — Variable Interest Entities
	Cleco reports its investments in VIEs in accordance with the authoritative guidance. Cleco and Cleco Power report the investment in Oxbow on the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method, the assets and liabilities of this entity are reported as equity investment in investees on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The revenue and expenses (excluding income taxes) of this entity are netted and reported as equity income or loss from investees on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
	Equity Method VIEs
	Equity investment in investees at September 30, 2013, primarily represented Cleco Power’s $14.5 million investment in Oxbow. Equity investments that are less than 100% owned by Diversified Lands represented less than $0.1 million of the total balance.
	Oxbow
	Oxbow is owned 50% by Cleco Power and 50% by SWEPCO and is accounted for as an equity method investment. Cleco Power is not the primary beneficiary because it shares the power to control Oxbow’s significant activities with SWEPCO. Cleco’s current assessment of its maximum exposure to loss related to Oxbow at September 30, 2013, consisted of its equity investment of $14.5 million. The following table presents the components of Cleco Power’s equity investment in Oxbow.
	INCEPTION TO DATE (THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Purchase price	$	12,873	$	12,873
	Cash contributions	1,659		1,659
	Total equity investment in investee	$	14,532	$	14,532
	The following table compares the carrying amount of Oxbow’s assets and liabilities with Cleco’s maximum exposure to loss related to its investment in Oxbow.
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Oxbow’s net assets/liabilities	$	29,065	$	29,065
	Cleco Power’s 50% equity	$	14,532	$	14,532
	Cleco’s maximum exposure to loss	$	14,532	$	14,532
	The following tables contain summarized financial information for Oxbow.
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Current assets	$	2,182	$	1,814
	Property, plant, and equipment, net	22,698		23,029
	Other assets	4,254		4,248
	Total assets	$	29,134	$	29,091
	Current liabilities	$	69	$	26
	Partners’ capital	29,065		29,065
	Total liabilities and partners’ capital	$	29,134	$	29,091
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,				FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013		2012		2013		2012
	Operating revenue	$	856	$	450	$	1,795	$	1,125
	Operating expenses	856		450		1,795		1,125
	Income before taxes	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Oxbow’s property, plant, and equipment, net consists of land and lignite reserves. The lignite reserves are intended to be used to provide fuel to the Dolet Hills Power Station. DHLC mines the lignite reserves at Oxbow through the Amended Lignite Mining Agreement.
	Oxbow has no third-party agreements, guarantees, or other third-party commitments that contain obligations affecting Cleco Power’s investment in Oxbow.

Litigation_Other_Commitments_a

Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees [Abstract]
Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees
	Note 11 — Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees
	Litigation
	Devil’s Swamp
	In October 2007, Cleco received a Special Notice for Remedial Investigation and Feasibility Study (RI/FS) from the EPA pursuant to CERCLA (also known as the Superfund statute). CERCLA establishes several classes of PRPs for a contaminated site, and imposes strict, joint, and several liability on those PRPs for the cost of response to the contamination. The special notice requested that Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power, along with many other listed PRPs, enter into negotiations with the EPA for the performance of an RI/FS at an area known as the Devil’s Swamp Lake site just northwest of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The EPA identified Cleco as one of many companies that was sending PCB wastes for disposal to the site. The Devil’s Swamp Lake site has been proposed to be added to the National Priorities List based on the release of PCBs to fisheries and wetlands located on the site, but no final determination has been made. The PRPs began discussing a potential proposal to the EPA in February 2008. The EPA issued a Unilateral Administrative Order to PRP’s Clean Harbors, Inc. and Baton Rouge Disposal to Conduct an RI/FS on December 3, 2009. The Tier 1 part of the study was complete as of June 25, 2012. Currently, the study/remedy selection task continues. Therefore, management is unable to determine how significant Cleco’s share of the costs associated with the RI/FS and possible response action at the facility site, if any, may be and whether or not this will have a material adverse effect on the Registrants’ financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
	Discrimination Complaints
	In December 2009, a complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana (the Court) on behalf of eight current employees and four former employees alleging that Cleco discriminated against each of them on the basis of race. Each is seeking various remedies provided under applicable statutes prohibiting racial discrimination in the workplace, and together, the plaintiffs seek monetary compensation exceeding $35.0 million. In July 2010, the plaintiffs moved to add an additional current employee alleging that Cleco had discriminated on the basis of race. The additional plaintiff seeks compensation of no less than $2.5 million and became the thirteenth plaintiff. In April 2011, Cleco entered into a settlement with one of the current employees which resulted in a dismissal of one of the thirteen cases with prejudice. In September 2011, the Court ruled on Cleco’s summary judgment motions, with the end result that eleven of the twelve remaining plaintiffs had at least one claim remaining. In February 2013, the Court ruled on the second motion for summary judgment, filed by Cleco in March 2012, in each of the eleven cases and each such case was dismissed with prejudice. Appeals were filed in ten of the eleven dismissed cases to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit (the Fifth Circuit). In June 2013, the Fifth Circuit clerk dismissed the appeals of two of the current employees due to their failure to file a brief in support of their respective appeals. On various dates during August, September, and October 2013, the Fifth Circuit affirmed the trial court judgments in favor of Cleco in six of the eight remaining cases. There has been no disposition of the two remaining appeals.
	City of Opelousas
	In March 2010, a complaint was filed in the 27th Judicial District Court of St. Landry Parish, State of Louisiana, on behalf of three Cleco Power customers in Opelousas, Louisiana.  The complaint alleges that Cleco Power overcharged the plaintiffs by applying to customers in Opelousas the same retail rates as Cleco Power applies to all of its retail customers.  The plaintiffs claim that Cleco Power owes customers in Opelousas more than $30.0 million as a result of the alleged overcharges. The plaintiffs allege that Cleco Power should have established, solely for customers in Opelousas, retail rates that are separate and distinct from the retail rates that apply to other customers of Cleco Power and that Cleco Power should not collect from customers in Opelousas the storm surcharge approved by the LPSC following hurricanes Katrina and Rita. In April 2010, Cleco Power filed a petition with the LPSC appealing to its expertise in declaring that the ratepayers of Opelousas have been properly charged the rates that are applicable to Cleco Power’s retail customers and that no overcharges have been collected.
	In May 2010, a second class action lawsuit was filed in the 27th Judicial District Court for St. Landry Parish, State of Louisiana, repeating the allegations of the first complaint, which was submitted on behalf of 249 Opelousas residents. In January 2011, the presiding judge in the state court proceeding ruled that the jurisdiction to hear the two class actions resides in the state court and not with the LPSC as argued by both Cleco and the LPSC Staff. Both Cleco and the LPSC Staff appealed this ruling to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals for the State of Louisiana (Third Circuit). In September 2011, the Third Circuit denied both appeals. In October 2011, both Cleco and the LPSC appealed the Third Circuit’s ruling to the Louisiana Supreme Court. In February 2011, the administrative law judge (ALJ) in the LPSC proceeding ruled that the LPSC has jurisdiction to decide the claims raised by the class action plaintiffs. At its December 2011 Business and Executive Session, the LPSC adopted the ALJ’s recommendation that Cleco be granted summary judgment in its declaratory action finding that Cleco’s ratepayers in the City of Opelousas have been served under applicable rates and policies approved by the LPSC and Cleco’s Opelousas ratepayers have not been overcharged in connection with LPSC rates or ratemaking. In January 2012, the class action plaintiffs filed their appeal of such LPSC decision to the 19th Judicial District Court for East Baton Rouge Parish, State of Louisiana. In December 2012, the Louisiana Supreme Court issued its opinion accepting Cleco’s jurisdictional arguments and dismissed the state court claims. The only matter remaining is before the 19th Judicial District Court to review the LPSC ruling in Cleco’s favor that it had properly charged the ratepayers of Opelousas. In view of the uncertainty of the claims, management is not able to predict or give a reasonable estimate of the possible range of liability, if any, of these claims. However, if it is found that Cleco Power overcharged customers resulting in a refund, any such refund could have a material adverse effect on the Registrants’ results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.
	Other
	Cleco is involved in various litigation matters, including regulatory, environmental, and administrative proceedings before various courts, regulatory commissions, arbitrators, and governmental agencies regarding matters arising in the ordinary course of business. The liability Cleco may ultimately incur with respect to any one of these matters in the event of a negative outcome may be in excess of amounts currently accrued. Management regularly analyzes current information and, as of September 30, 2013, believes the probable and reasonably estimable liabilities based on the eventual disposition of these matters is approximately $8.9 million and has accrued this amount.
	Off-Balance Sheet Commitments
	Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power have entered into various off-balance sheet commitments, in the form of guarantees and standby letters of credit, in order to facilitate their activities and the activities of Cleco Corporation’s subsidiaries and equity investees (affiliates). Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power have also agreed to contractual terms that require them to pay third parties if certain triggering events occur. These contractual terms generally are defined as guarantees in the authoritative guidance.
	Cleco Corporation entered into these off-balance sheet commitments in order to entice desired counterparties to contract with its affiliates by providing some measure of credit assurance to the counterparty in the event Cleco’s affiliates do not fulfill certain contractual obligations. If Cleco Corporation had not provided the off-balance sheet commitments, the desired counterparties may not have contracted with Cleco’s affiliates, or may have contracted with them at terms less favorable to its affiliates.
	The off-balance sheet commitments are not recognized on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets because management has determined that Cleco’s affiliates are able to perform these obligations under their contracts and that it is not probable that payments by Cleco will be required. Cleco’s off-balance sheet commitments as of September 30, 2013, are summarized in the following table and a discussion of the off-balance sheet commitments follows the table. The discussion should be read in conjunction with the table to understand the impact of the off-balance sheet commitments on Cleco’s financial condition.
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	FACE		REDUCTIONS		NET
		AMOUNT				AMOUNT
	Cleco Corporation
	Guarantee issued to Entergy Mississippi on behalf of Attala	$	500	$	—	$	500
	Cleco Power
	Obligations under standby letter of credit issued to the Louisiana Department of Labor	3,725		—		3,725
	Total	$	4,225	$	—	$	4,225
	In January 2006, Cleco Corporation provided a $0.5 million guarantee to Entergy Mississippi for Attala’s obligations under the Interconnection Agreement. This guarantee will be effective through the life of the agreement.
	The State of Louisiana allows employers of certain financial net worth to self-insure their workers’ compensation benefits. Cleco Power has a certificate of self-insurance from the Louisiana Office of Workers’ Compensation and is required to post a $3.7 million letter of credit, an amount equal to 110% of the average losses over the previous three years, as surety.
	Disclosures about Guarantees
	Cleco Corporation provided a limited guarantee and an indemnification to Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Gulf States for Perryville’s performance, indemnity, representation, and warranty obligations under the Sale Agreement, the Power Purchase Agreement, and other ancillary agreements related to the sale of the Perryville facility in 2004. This is a continuing guarantee and all obligations of Cleco Corporation shall continue until the guaranteed obligations have been fully performed or otherwise extinguished. The discounted probability-weighted liability under the guarantees and indemnifications recognized on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2013, was $0.2 million. The maximum amount of the potential payment to Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Gulf States is $42.4 million. Currently, management does not expect to be required to pay Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Gulf States under the guarantee.
	In February 2010, Cleco Power acquired Acadia Unit 1 and limited guarantees and indemnifications were provided to Cleco Power. The maximum amount of the potential payment to Cleco Power for indemnifications was $30.0 million, except for indemnifications relating to the fundamental organizational structure of which there was no maximum amount. Cleco Corporation was obligated to pay a maximum of $10.0 million if the claims were not paid to Cleco Power pursuant to the guarantee. An indemnification liability of $13.5 million which represents the fair value of these indemnifications was recorded on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.
	The indemnification liabilities were reduced through expiration of the contractual life or through a reduction in the probability of a claim arising. The indemnification obligation had a term of approximately three years. As these underlying indemnifications expired, income was recognized on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. At September 30, 2013, the contractual life of the indemnification had expired and there was no remaining liability. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, less than $0.1 million of income was recognized and for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, $0.4 million was recognized. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, no income was recognized and for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, $7.2 million was recognized.
	In April 2011, Acadia completed its disposition of Acadia Unit 2 to Entergy Louisiana. Limited guarantees and indemnifications were provided to Entergy Louisiana and an indemnification liability of $21.8 million, which represents the fair value of these indemnifications was recorded on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.
	The indemnification liabilities are reduced through expiration of the contractual life or through a reduction in the probability of a claim arising. The indemnification obligation is expected to have a term of three years. After the three-year period, a residual value of approximately $0.2 million will remain. At September 30, 2013, an indemnification liability of $0.9 million remained, which represents the risk of payment, as a contingent sale obligation recorded on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. As these underlying indemnifications expire, income is recognized on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, no income was recognized and for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, $6.9 million was recognized. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, no income was recognized and for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, $11.8 million was recognized. The maximum amount of the potential payment to Entergy Louisiana for the indemnifications is the purchase price of $298.8 million, except for the liabilities retained for which there is no maximum amount. Cleco Corporation is obligated to pay the same maximum amounts as Acadia if Acadia is unable to pay claims to Entergy Louisiana pursuant to the guarantee.
	As part of the Amended Lignite Mining Agreement, Cleco Power and SWEPCO, joint owners of Dolet Hills, have agreed to pay the loan and lease principal obligations of the lignite miner, DHLC, when due if they do not have sufficient funds or credit to pay. Any amounts paid on behalf of the miner would be credited by the lignite miner against future invoices for lignite delivered. At September 30, 2013, Cleco Power had a liability of $3.8 million related to the amended agreement. The maximum projected payment by Cleco Power under this guarantee is estimated to be $72.5 million; however, the Amended Lignite Mining Agreement does not contain a cap. The projection is based on the forecasted loan and lease obligations to be incurred by DHLC, primarily for purchases of equipment. Cleco Power has the right to dispute the incurrence of loan and lease obligations through the review of the mining plan before the incurrence of such loan and lease obligations. The Amended Lignite Mining Agreement does not terminate pursuant to its terms until 2026 and does not affect the amount the Registrants can borrow under their credit facilities. Currently, management does not expect to be required to pay DHLC under the guarantee.
	In its bylaws, Cleco Corporation has agreed to indemnify directors, officers, agents, and employees who are made a party to a pending or completed suit, arbitration, investigation, or other proceeding whether civil, criminal, investigative, or administrative, if the basis of inclusion arises as the result of acts conducted in the discharge of their official capacity. Cleco Corporation has purchased various insurance policies to reduce the risks associated with the indemnification. In its operating agreement, Cleco Power provides for the same indemnification as described above with respect to its managers, officers, agents, and employees.
	Generally, neither Cleco Corporation nor Cleco Power has recourse that would enable them to recover amounts paid under their guarantee or indemnification obligations. The one exception is the insurance contracts associated with the indemnification of directors, managers, officers, agents, and employees. There are no assets held as collateral for third parties that either Cleco Corporation or Cleco Power could obtain and liquidate to recover amounts paid pursuant to the guarantees or indemnification obligations.
	The following table summarizes the expected amount of commitment termination per period of off-balance sheet commitments and on-balance sheet guarantees discussed above.
								AT SEPT. 30, 2013
				AMOUNT OF COMMITMENT EXPIRATION PER PERIOD
	(THOUSANDS)	NET		LESS THAN		1-3 YEARS		3-5 YEARS		MORE
		AMOUNT		ONE YEAR						THAN
		COMMITTED								5 YEARS
	Off-balance sheet commitments	$	4,225	$	3,725	$	—	$	—	$	500
	On-balance sheet guarantees	4,906		900		—		—		4,006
	Total	$	9,131	$	4,625	$	—	$	—	$	4,506
	Other Commitments
	NMTC Fund
	In 2008, Cleco Corporation and US Bancorp Community Development Corporation (USBCDC) formed the NMTC Fund. Cleco has a 99.9% membership interest in the NMTC Fund and USBCDC has a 0.1% interest. The purpose of the NMTC Fund is to invest in projects located in qualified active low-income communities that are underserved by typical debt capital markets. These investments are designed to generate NMTCs and Historical Rehabilitation tax credits. The NMTC Fund was later amended to include renewable energy investments. The majority of the energy investments qualify for grants under Section 1603 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009. The tax benefits received from the NMTC Fund reduce the federal income tax obligations of Cleco Corporation. In total, Cleco Corporation will contribute $283.6 million of equity contributions to the NMTC Fund and will receive at least $301.9 million in the form of tax credits, tax losses, capital gains/losses, earnings, and cash over the life of the investment, which ends in 2017. The $18.3 million difference between equity contributions and total benefits received will be recognized over the life of the NMTC Fund as net tax benefits are delivered. The following table reflects remaining future equity contributions.
	(THOUSANDS)	CONTRIBUTION
	Three months ending Dec. 31, 2013	$	12,071
	Years ending Dec. 31,
	2014	47,434
	2015	11,195
	2016	3,698
	2017	2,914
	Total	$	77,312
	Of the $77.3 million, $48.3 million is due to be paid within the next 12 months. Due to the right of offset, the investment and associated debt are presented on Cleco’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet in the line item titled Tax credit fund investment, net. The amount of tax benefits delivered in excess of capital contributions as of September 30, 2013, was $83.4 million. The amount of tax benefits delivered but not utilized as of September 30, 2013, was $112.3 million and is reflected as a deferred tax asset.
	The equity contribution does not contain a stated rate of interest. Cleco Corporation has recorded the liability and investment at its calculated fair value within the framework of the authoritative guidance. In order to calculate the fair value, management used an imputed rate of interest assuming that Cleco Corporation obtained financing of a similar nature from a third party. The imputed interest rate was used in a net present value model in order to calculate the fair value of the remaining portion of the delayed equity contributions. The following table contains the disclosures required by the authoritative guidelines for equity investments with an imputed interest rate.
	(THOUSANDS)
	Equity contributions, imputed interest rate 6%
	Principal payment schedule above:	$	77,312
	Less:  unamortized discount	5,015
	Total	$	72,297
	The gross investment amortization expense will be recognized over a ten-year period, with four years remaining under the new amendment, using the cost method in accordance with the authoritative guidance for investments. The grants received under Section 1603, which allow certain projects to receive a federal grant in lieu of tax credits, and other cash reduce the basis of the investment. Periodic amortization of the investment and the deferred taxes generated by the basis reduction temporary difference are included as components of income tax expense.
	Other
Cleco has accrued for liabilities related to third parties and employee medical benefits.
Risks and Uncertainties
Cleco Corporation
Cleco Corporation could be subject to possible adverse consequences if Cleco’s counterparties fail to perform their obligations or if Cleco Corporation or its affiliates are not in compliance with loan agreements or bond indentures.
Other
Access to capital markets is a significant source of funding for both short- and long-term capital requirements not satisfied by operating cash flows. After assessing the current operating performance, liquidity, and credit ratings of Cleco Corporation, management believes that Cleco will have access to the capital markets at prevailing market rates for companies with comparable credit ratings. If Cleco Corporation’s credit ratings were to be downgraded by Moody’s or S&P, Cleco Corporation would be required to pay additional fees and higher interest rates under its bank credit and other debt agreements.
Future actions or inactions of the U.S. federal government, including a failure to increase the government debt limit or another shutdown of the federal government, could increase the actual or perceived risk that the U.S. may not ultimately pay its obligations when due and may disrupt financial markets, including capital markets.
Changes in the regulatory environment or market forces could cause Cleco to determine its assets have suffered an other-than-temporary decline in value, whereby an impairment would be required to be taken and Cleco’s financial condition could be materially adversely affected.
Cleco Power
Cleco Power supplies the majority of its customers’ electric power requirements from its own generation facilities. In addition to power obtained from power purchase agreements, Cleco Power purchases power from other utilities and marketers to supplement its generation at times of relatively high demand or when the purchase price of power is less than its own cost of generation. Due to its location on the transmission grid, Cleco Power relies on two main suppliers of electric transmission when accessing external power markets. At times, constraints limit the amount of purchased power these transmission providers can deliver into Cleco Power’s service territory.
Access to capital markets is a significant source of funding for both short- and long-term capital requirements not satisfied by operating cash flows. After assessing the current operating performance, liquidity, and credit ratings of Cleco Power, management believes that Cleco Power will have access to the capital markets at prevailing market rates for companies with comparable credit ratings. Cleco Power pays fees and interest under its bank credit agreements based on the highest rating held. If Cleco Power’s credit ratings were to be downgraded by Moody’s or S&P, Cleco Power would be required to pay additional fees and higher interest rates under its bank credit agreements. Cleco Power’s collateral for derivatives is based on the lowest rating held. If Cleco Power’s credit ratings were to be downgraded by Moody’s or S&P, Cleco Power would be required to pay additional collateral for derivatives.
Future actions or inactions of the U.S. federal government, including a failure to increase the government debt limit or another shutdown of the federal government, could increase the actual or perceived risk that the U.S. may not ultimately pay its obligations when due and may disrupt financial markets, including capital markets.

Affiliate_Transactions

Affiliate Transactions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Affiliate Transactions
	Note 12 — Affiliate Transactions
	Cleco Power has affiliate balances that are payable to or due from its affiliates. The following table is a summary of those balances.
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013				AT DEC. 31, 2012
	(THOUSANDS)	ACCOUNTS		ACCOUNTS		ACCOUNTS		ACCOUNTS
		RECEIVABLE		PAYABLE		RECEIVABLE		PAYABLE
	Cleco Corporation	$	5	$	368	$	139	$	1,140
	Support Group	1,160		6,415		2,777		7,528
	Midstream	63		2		27		5
	Evangeline	21		3,371		6		1,401
	Diversified Lands	10		84		42		23
	Other (1)	1		—		—		—
	Total	$	1,260	$	10,240	$	2,991	$	10,097
	(1) Represents Perryville and Attala

Storm_Restoration

Storm Restoration	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Storm Restoration [Abstract]
Storm Restoration
	Note 13 — Storm Restoration
	On August 28, 2012, Hurricane Isaac made landfall in south Louisiana as a Category 1 hurricane, causing power outages to approximately 95,000, or 34%, of Cleco Power’s electric customers and affecting Cleco Power’s entire service territory. By September 2, 2012, power was restored to 100% of customers who could receive power.
	The cost of restoration for Hurricane Isaac was $24.3 million. The damage to equipment from the storm required replacement, as well as repair of existing assets. Therefore, the balance sheets of Cleco and Cleco Power reflect the capitalization of approximately 56.0% of the restoration costs recorded at September 30, 2013, or approximately $13.6 million. The remaining cost was offset against Cleco Power’s existing storm damage reserve.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note
	Note 14 — Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are summarized in the following tables for Cleco and Cleco Power. All amounts are reported net of income taxes and amounts in parentheses indicate debits.
	Cleco
					FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT NET (LOSS) GAIN			NET (LOSS) GAIN			TOTAL ACCUMULATED
					ON CASH			OTHER COMPREHENSIVE
					FLOW HEDGES			(LOSS) GAIN
	Balances, June 30, 2013	$	(23,619	)	$	(6,256	)	$	(29,875	)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income:
	Amortization of postretirement benefit net loss	497			—			497
	Reclassification of net loss to interest charges	—			53			53
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	497			53			550
	Balances, Sept. 30, 2013	$	(23,122	)	$	(6,203	)	$	(29,325	)
					FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT NET (LOSS) GAIN			NET (LOSS) GAIN			TOTAL ACCUMULATED
					ON CASH			OTHER COMPREHENSIVE
					FLOW HEDGES			(LOSS) GAIN
	Balances, Dec. 31, 2012	$	(24,741	)	$	(7,629	)	$	(32,370	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications:
	Net derivative gain	—			1,355			1,355
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income:
	Amortization of postretirement benefit net loss	1,619			—			1,619
	Reclassification of net loss to interest charges	—			102			102
	Reclassification of ineffectiveness to regulatory asset	—			(31		)	(31		)
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	1,619			1,426			3,045
	Balances, Sept. 30, 2013	$	(23,122	)	$	(6,203	)	$	(29,325	)
	Cleco Power
					FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT NET (LOSS) GAIN			NET (LOSS) GAIN			TOTAL ACCUMULATED
					ON CASH			OTHER COMPREHENSIVE
					FLOW HEDGES			(LOSS) GAIN
	Balances, June 30, 2013	$	(12,272	)	$	(6,256	)	$	(18,528	)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income:
	Amortization of postretirement benefit net loss	207			—			207
	Reclassification of net loss to interest charges	—			53			53
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	207			53			260
	Balances, Sept. 30, 2013	$	(12,065	)	$	(6,203	)	$	(18,268	)
					FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT NET (LOSS) GAIN			NET (LOSS) GAIN			TOTAL ACCUMULATED
					ON CASH			OTHER COMPREHENSIVE
					FLOW HEDGES			(LOSS) GAIN
	Balances, Dec. 31, 2012	$	(12,792	)	$	(7,629	)	$	(20,421	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications:
	Net derivative gain	—			1,355			1,355
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income:
	Amortization of postretirement benefit net loss	727			—			727
	Reclassification of net loss to interest charges	—			102			102
	Reclassification of ineffectiveness to regulatory asset	—			(31		)	(31		)
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	727			1,426			2,153
	Balances, Sept. 30, 2013	$	(12,065	)	$	(6,203	)	$	(18,268	)

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation, Policy	The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Cleco include the accounts of Cleco and its majority-owned subsidiaries after elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions.
Basis of Presentation, Policy	The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Cleco Corporation and Cleco Power have been prepared in accordance with GAAP for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for annual financial statements. The year-end Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet data was derived from audited financial statements. Because the interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying notes do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for annual financial statements, the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and other information included in this quarterly report should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in the Registrants’ Combined Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, in the opinion of management, reflect all normal recurring adjustments that are necessary to fairly present the financial position and results of operations of Cleco. Amounts reported in Cleco’s interim financial statements are not necessarily indicative of amounts expected for the annual periods due to the effects of seasonal temperature variations on energy consumption, regulatory rulings, the timing of maintenance on electric generating units, changes in mark-to-market valuations, changing commodity prices, and other factors.
	In preparing financial statements that conform to GAAP, management must make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the reported amounts of revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Policy	Property, plant, and equipment consists primarily of regulated utility generation and energy transmission assets. Regulated assets, utilized primarily for retail operations and electric transmission and distribution, are stated at the cost of construction, which includes certain materials, labor, payroll taxes and benefits, administrative and general costs, and the estimated cost of funds used during construction. Jointly owned assets are reflected in property, plant, and equipment at Cleco Power’s share of the cost to construct or purchase the assets.
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy	Various agreements to which Cleco is subject contain covenants that restrict its use of cash. As certain provisions under these agreements are met, cash is transferred out of related escrow accounts and becomes available for its intended purposes and/or general corporate purposes.
	Cleco Katrina/Rita has the right to bill and collect storm restoration costs from Cleco Power’s customers. As cash is collected, it is restricted for payment of administration fees, interest, and principal on storm recovery bonds.
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, Policy	Various accounting pronouncements require certain assets and liabilities to be measured at their fair values. Some assets and liabilities are required to be measured at their fair value each reporting period, while others are required to be measured only one time, generally the date of acquisition or debt issuance. Cleco and Cleco Power are required to disclose the fair value of certain assets and liabilities by one of three levels when required for recognition purposes under GAAP.
Risk Management, Policy	Market risk inherent in Cleco’s market risk-sensitive instruments and positions includes potential changes arising from changes in interest rates and the commodity market prices of power and natural gas on different energy exchanges. Cleco’s Energy Market Risk Management Policy authorizes the use of various derivative instruments, including exchange traded futures and option contracts, forward purchase and sales contracts, and swap transactions to reduce exposure to fluctuations in the price of power and natural gas. Cleco applies the authoritative guidance as it relates to derivatives and hedging to determine whether the market risk-sensitive instruments and positions are required to be marked-to-market. Generally, Cleco Power’s market risk-sensitive instruments and positions qualify for the normal-purchase, normal-sale exception to mark-to-market accounting because Cleco Power takes physical delivery and the instruments and positions are used to satisfy customer requirements.
	Cleco Power may enter into positions to mitigate the volatility in customer fuel costs. These positions are marked-to-market with the resulting gain or loss recorded on the balance sheet as a component of energy risk management assets or liabilities. Such gain or loss is deferred as a component of deferred fuel assets or liabilities in accordance with regulatory policy. When these positions close, actual gains or losses will be included in the FAC and reflected on customers’ bills as a component of the fuel cost adjustment. There were no open positions at September 30, 2013 or December 31, 2012.
	Cleco and Cleco Power maintain a master netting agreement policy and monitor credit risk exposure through review of counterparty credit quality, counterparty credit exposure, and counterparty concentration levels. Cleco manages these risks by establishing appropriate credit and concentration limits on transactions with counterparties and by requiring contractual guarantees, cash deposits, or letters of credit from counterparties or their affiliates, as deemed necessary. Cleco Power has agreements in place with various counterparties that authorize the netting of financial buys and sells and contract payments to mitigate credit risk for transactions entered into for risk management purposes.
	Cleco has entered into various contracts to mitigate the volatility in interest rate risk. These contracts include, but are not limited to, interest rate swaps and treasury rate locks. For these contracts in which Cleco is hedging the variability of cash flows related to forecasted transactions that qualify as cash flow hedges, the changes in the fair value of such derivative instruments are reported in other comprehensive income. To qualify for hedge accounting, the relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item must be documented to include the risk management objective and strategy, and, at inception and on an ongoing basis, the effectiveness of the hedge in offsetting the changes in the cash flows of the item being hedged. Gains or losses accumulated in other comprehensive income are reclassified as earnings in the periods in which earnings are affected by the variability of the cash flows of the hedged item. The ineffective portions of hedges will be recognized in current period earnings unless management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered through the ratemaking process. If management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered from customers, then they will be recognized as a regulatory asset or liability and amortized to earnings over the life of the related debt. For those contracts in which Cleco is hedging the variability of cash flows related to forecasted transactions that do not qualify as cash flow hedges, the changes in the fair value of such derivative instruments will be recognized in current period earnings unless management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered from customers through the ratemaking process. If management determines that it is probable that the costs will be recovered from customers, then they will be recognized as a regulatory asset or liability and amortized to earnings over the life of the related debt.
Earnings Per Average Common Share, Policy	Stock option grants are excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share if the exercise price is higher than the average market price.
Stock-Based Compensation, Policy	At September 30, 2013, Cleco had two stock-based compensation plans, the ESPP and the LTICP. Substantially all employees, excluding officers and general managers, may choose to participate in the ESPP and purchase a limited amount of common stock at a discount through a stock option agreement. Options or restricted shares of stock, known as non-vested stock as defined by the authoritative guidance on stock-based compensation, common stock equivalents, and stock appreciation rights may be granted to certain officers, key employees, or directors of Cleco Corporation and its subsidiaries pursuant to the LTICP.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy	The Registrants adopted, or will adopt, the recent authoritative guidance listed below on their respective effective dates.
	In July 2012, FASB issued guidance on testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. This guidance is intended to reduce costs and complexity of testing indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill for impairment. Entities are allowed to perform a “qualitative” assessment to determine whether further impairment testing of indefinite-lived intangible assets is necessary, similar in approach to the goodwill impairment test. The adoption of this guidance is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In January 2013, FASB clarified the scope of revised disclosure requirements related to balance sheet offsetting that was issued in December 2011. The amendment clarifies that the scope applies to derivatives accounted for in accordance with the authoritative guidance for derivatives and hedging. The adoption of this revision is required for interim and annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. The adoption of this revision did not have an impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants because it relates to disclosures, and no additional disclosures were required.
	In February 2013, FASB revised the disclosure requirements related to items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This guidance is intended to improve the transparency of changes in OCI. This revision is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2012. Cleco adopted the revisions to this amendment during the first quarter of 2013. The adoption of this revision did not have an impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants because it relates to disclosures. For more information on items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income, see Note 14 — “Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss.”
	In February 2013, FASB issued guidance for the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation is fixed at the reporting date. The adoption of this guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In April 2013, FASB issued guidance on applying the liquidation basis of accounting and the related disclosure requirements. Under this accounting standards update, an entity must use the liquidation basis of accounting to present its financial statements when it determines that liquidation is imminent, unless the liquidation is the same as that under the plan specified in an entity's governing documents created at its inception. The adoption of this standard is effective for entities that determine liquidation is imminent during annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013, and interim reporting periods therein. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have an effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In July 2013, FASB amended the guidance for derivatives and hedging to provide for the inclusion of the Fed Funds Effective Swap Rate as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for hedge accounting purposes. The adoption of this guidance is effective for qualifying new or redesignated hedging relationships entered into on or after July 17, 2013. The adoption of this guidance did not have an effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
	In July 2013, FASB amended the income tax guidance to provide for the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. The adoption of this guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have an effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of the Registrants.
Public Utilities, Policy	Cleco Power follows the authoritative guidance on regulated operations, which allows utilities to capitalize or defer certain costs based on regulatory approval and management’s ongoing assessment that it is probable these items will be recovered through the ratemaking process.
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy	Because Cleco Power’s investment strategy for these investments is within the requirements established by the LPSC for the restricted reserve fund, realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest income, investment management fees, and custody fees are recorded directly to Cleco Power’s restricted storm reserve rather than in earnings or other comprehensive income. As a result, no amounts will be recorded to other comprehensive income for these investments.
	Quarterly, Cleco Power’s available-for-sale debt securities are evaluated on an individual basis to determine if a decline in fair value below the carrying value is other-than-temporary.
	Management determines whether it intends to sell or if it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell impaired securities. This determination considers current and forecasted liquidity and regulatory requirements. For Cleco Power’s impaired debt securities for which there was no intent or expected requirement to sell, the evaluation assesses whether it is likely the amortized cost will be recovered considering the nature of the securities, credit rating, financial condition of the issuer, or the extent and duration of the unrealized loss and market conditions. If Cleco Power determines that an other-than-temporary decline in value exists on its debt securities, the investments would be written down to fair value with a new basis established. Declines in fair value below cost basis that are determined to be other-than-temporary would be recorded to Cleco Power’s restricted storm reserve.
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy	Most employees hired before August 1, 2007, are covered by a non-contributory, defined benefit pension plan. Benefits under the plan reflect an employee’s years of service, age at retirement, and highest total average compensation for any consecutive five calendar years during the last ten years of employment with Cleco. Cleco’s policy is to base its contributions to the employee pension plan upon actuarial computations utilizing the projected unit credit method, subject to the IRS’s full funding limitation.
	Cleco’s retirees and their dependents are eligible to receive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits (other benefits). Cleco recognizes the expected cost of these other benefits during the periods in which the benefits are earned.
	Most employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan. Under the 401(k) Plan, Cleco makes matching contributions and funds dividend reinvestments with cash.
	Certain Cleco officers are covered by the SERP. The SERP is a non-qualified, non-contributory, defined-benefit pension plan. Benefits under the plan reflect an employee’s years of service, age at retirement, and the sum of the highest base salary paid out of the last five calendar years plus the average of the three highest bonuses paid during the 60 months prior to retirement, reduced by benefits received from any other defined benefit pension plan, SERP Plan, or Cleco contributions under the enhanced 401(k) Plan to the extent such contributions exceed the limits of the 401(k) Plan.
Income Tax, Policy	Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.
	Cleco classifies all interest related to uncertain tax positions as a component of interest payable and interest expense.
	Cleco classifies income tax penalties as a component of other expense.
Segment Reporting, Policy	The financial results of Cleco’s segments are presented on an accrual basis. Management evaluates the performance of its segments and allocates resources to them based on segment profit and the requirements to implement new strategic initiatives and projects to meet current business objectives.
Equity Method Investments, Policy	Cleco reports its investments in VIEs in accordance with the authoritative guidance. Cleco and Cleco Power report the investment in Oxbow on the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method, the assets and liabilities of this entity are reported as equity investment in investees on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The revenue and expenses (excluding income taxes) of this entity are netted and reported as equity income or loss from investees on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy	Oxbow is owned 50% by Cleco Power and 50% by SWEPCO and is accounted for as an equity method investment. Cleco Power is not the primary beneficiary because it shares the power to control Oxbow’s significant activities with SWEPCO.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Property, Plant, and Equipment	Cleco’s property, plant, and equipment consisted of:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013			AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Regulated utility plants	$	4,001,194		$	3,871,940
	Other	271,713			268,254
	Total property, plant, and equipment	4,272,907			4,140,194
	Accumulated depreciation	(1,371,857		)	(1,311,273		)
	Net property, plant, and equipment	$	2,901,050		$	2,828,921
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cleco’s restricted cash and cash equivalents consisted of:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013			AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Diversified Lands’ mitigation escrow	$	97		$	97
	Cleco Katrina/Rita’s storm recovery bonds	3,359			8,781
	Cleco Power’s future storm restoration costs	4,944			5,343
	Cleco Power’s building renovation escrow	71			—
	Total restricted cash and cash equivalents	$	8,471		$	14,221
Earnings per Average Common Share	The following tables show the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
											FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
								2013									2012
	(THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARES AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)	INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE			INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE
								AMOUNT									AMOUNT
	Basic net income applicable to common stock	$	66,407		60,450,384			$	1.1		$	63,818		60,346,476			$	1.06
	Effect of dilutive securities
	Add:  stock option grants				—									1,536
	Add:  restricted stock (LTICP)				298,263									251,191
	Diluted net income applicable to common stock	$	66,407		60,748,647			$	1.09		$	63,818		60,599,203			$	1.05
											FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
								2013									2012
	(THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARES AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)	INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE			INCOME			SHARES			PER SHARE
								AMOUNT									AMOUNT
	Basic net income applicable to common stock	$	135,572		60,428,944			$	2.25		$	140,536		60,375,538			$	2.33
	Effect of dilutive securities
	Add:  stock option grants				—									4,518
	Add:  restricted stock (LTICP)				265,688									246,415
	Diluted net income applicable to common stock	$	135,572		60,694,632			$	2.23		$	140,536		60,626,471			$	2.32
Stock-Based Compensation	Cleco and Cleco Power reported pre-tax compensation expense for their share-based compensation plans as shown in the following table:
		CLECO CORPORATION							CLECO POWER						CLECO CORPORATION						CLECO POWER
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,													FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012				2013			2012			2013				2012		2013		2012
	Equity classification
	Non-vested stock	$	1,585		$	1,139			$	492		$	301		$	4,487			$	3,271	$	1,204	$	792
	Stock options	—			2				—			—			—				11		—		—
	Total equity classification	$	1,585		$	1,141			$	492		$	301		$	4,487			$	3,282	$	1,204	$	792
	Liability classification
	Common stock equivalent units	$	—		$	847			$	—		$	338		$	1			$	1,552	$	1	$	631
	Total pre-tax compensation expense	$	1,585		$	1,988			$	492		$	639		$	4,488			$	4,834	$	1,205	$	1,423
	Tax benefit	$	610		$	765			$	189		$	246		$	1,727			$	1,860	$	463	$	548

Regulatory_Assets_and_Liabilit1

Regulatory Assets and Liabilities (Tables) (Cleco Power [Member])	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Cleco Power [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities	The following table summarizes Cleco Power’s regulatory assets and liabilities at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Regulatory assets – deferred taxes, net	$	217,550	$	210,445
	Mining costs	$	14,657	$	16,569
	Interest costs	6,033		6,304
	Asset removal costs	919		867
	Postretirement plan costs	146,597		156,458
	Tree trimming costs	4,945		5,656
	Training costs	7,214		7,330
	Surcredits, net	16,738		6,211
	Construction carrying costs	—		4,697
	Lignite mining agreement contingency	3,781		3,781
	Power purchase agreement capacity costs	13,316		6,217
	AMI deferred revenue requirement	3,960		1,483
	AFUDC equity gross-up	73,518		74,158
	Rate case costs	179		581
	Acadia Unit 1 acquisition costs	2,786		2,865
	IRP/RFP costs	—		39
	AMI pilot costs	—		22
	Financing costs	9,864		7,282
	Biomass costs	122		145
	Total regulatory assets – other	$	304,629	$	300,665
	Construction carrying costs	—		(8,255		)
	Fuel and purchased power	6,851		7,833
	Total regulatory assets, net	$	529,030	$	510,688

Fair_Value_Accounting_Tables

Fair Value Accounting (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value [Line Items]
Fair Value By Balance Sheet Grouping	The following tables summarize the carrying value and estimated market value of Cleco and Cleco Power’s financial instruments subject to fair value accounting.
	Cleco
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013						AT DEC. 31, 2012
	(THOUSANDS)	CARRYING		ESTIMATED				CARRYING			ESTIMATED
		VALUE		FAIR VALUE				VALUE			FAIR VALUE
	Financial instruments not marked-to-market:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	46,800	$	46,800			$	31,020		$	31,020
	Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$	8,471	$	8,471			$	14,221		$	14,221
	Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	$	1,306,230	$	1,419,560			$	1,345,198		$	1,579,674
Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured On A Recurring Basis	The following tables disclose for Cleco and Cleco Power the fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured or disclosed on a recurring basis and within the scope of the authoritative guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures.
	Cleco
		CLECO CONSOLIDATED FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS AT REPORTING DATE USING:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		QUOTED PRICES IN				SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT			AT DEC. 31, 2012			QUOTED PRICES IN			SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT
				ACTIVE MARKETS				OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE						ACTIVE MARKETS			OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE
				FOR IDENTICAL				OBSERVABLE			INPUTS						FOR IDENTICAL			OBSERVABLE			INPUTS
				ASSETS				INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)						ASSETS			INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)
				(LEVEL 1)				(LEVEL 2)									(LEVEL 1)			(LEVEL 2)
	Asset Description
	Institutional money market funds	$	47,901	$	—			$	47,901		$	—		$	39,489		$	—		$	39,489		$	—
	Municipal bonds	9,631		—				9,631			—			10,203			—			10,203			—
	Corporate bonds	513		—				513			—			—			—			—			—
	Total assets	$	58,045	$	—			$	58,045		$	—		$	49,692		$	—		$	49,692		$	—
	Liability Description
	Interest rate derivatives	$	—	$	—			$	—		$	—		$	2,627		$	—		$	2,627		$	—
	Long-term debt	1,419,560		—				1,419,560			—			1,579,674			—			1,579,674			—
	Total liabilities	$	1,419,560	$	—			$	1,419,560		$	—		$	1,582,301		$	—		$	1,582,301		$	—
Effect of Derivatives On Consolidated Statements of Income	The following table presents the effect of derivatives designated as hedging instruments on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
		2013						2012
	(THOUSANDS)	AMOUNT		AMOUNT OF LOSS				AMOUNT			AMOUNT OF GAIN
		OF GAIN		RECLASSIFIED FROM				OF GAIN			RECLASSIFIED FROM
		RECOGNIZED		ACCUMULATED OCI				RECOGNIZED			ACCUMULATED OCI
		IN OCI		INTO INCOME				IN OCI			INTO INCOME
				(EFFECTIVE PORTION)							(EFFECTIVE PORTION)
	Interest rate	$	—	$	(86	)*		$	802		$	17	*
	derivatives (1)
	* The (loss) gain reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (effective portion) is reflected in interest charges.
	(1) During the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, Cleco had no ineffectiveness and losses related to the interest rate derivatives recorded as a regulatory asset.
		FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
		2013						2012
	(THOUSANDS)	AMOUNT		AMOUNT OF LOSS				AMOUNT			AMOUNT OF LOSS
		OF GAIN		RECLASSIFIED FROM				OF LOSS			RECLASSIFIED FROM
		RECOGNIZED		ACCUMULATED OCI				RECOGNIZED			ACCUMULATED OCI
		IN OCI		INTO INCOME				IN OCI			INTO INCOME
				(EFFECTIVE PORTION)							(EFFECTIVE PORTION)
	Interest rate	$	1,762	$	(165	)*		$	(733	)	$	(39	)*
	derivatives (1)
	* The loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (effective portion) is reflected in interest charges.
	(1) During the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, Cleco recorded ineffectiveness and losses related to the interest rate derivatives as a regulatory asset of $3.3 million and $2.6 million, respectively.
Cleco Power [Member]
Fair Value [Line Items]
Fair Value By Balance Sheet Grouping
	Cleco Power
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013						AT DEC. 31, 2012
	(THOUSANDS)	CARRYING		ESTIMATED				CARRYING			ESTIMATED
		VALUE		FAIR VALUE				VALUE			FAIR VALUE
	Financial instruments not marked-to-market:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	42,560	$	42,560			$	23,368		$	23,368
	Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$	8,374	$	8,374			$	14,124		$	14,124
	Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	$	1,306,230	$	1,419,560			$	1,320,198		$	1,554,674
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation	The following table provides a reconciliation of Cleco Power’s available-for-sale debt securities from amortized cost to fair value at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013													AT DEC. 31, 2012
	(THOUSANDS)	AMORTIZED		TOTAL					TOTAL			FAIR VALUE			AMORTIZED			TOTAL			TOTAL			FAIR VALUE
		COST		UNREALIZED GAINS (1)					UNREALIZED						COST			UNREALIZED GAINS (1)			UNREALIZED
									LOSSES (1)												LOSSES (1)
	Municipal bonds	$	9,641	$	5				$	15		$	9,631		$	10,228		$	3		$	28		$	10,203
	Corporate bonds	515		—					2			513			—			—			—			—
	Commercial paper	2,131		—			—		—			2,131			649			—			—			649
	Total available-for-sale debt securities	$	12,287	$	5				$	17		$	12,275		$	10,877		$	3		$	28		$	10,852
	(1)  Unrealized gains and losses are recorded to the restricted storm reserve.
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	The following table summarizes the debt securities that were in an unrealized loss position at September 30, 2013, but for which no other-than-temporary impairment was recognized:
		LESS THAN 12 MONTHS						12 MONTHS OR LONGER
	(THOUSANDS)	AGGREGATE UNREALIZED		AGGREGATE				AGGREGATE UNREALIZED			AGGREGATE
		LOSS		RELATED				LOSS			RELATED
				FAIR VALUE							FAIR VALUE
	Municipal bonds	$	7	$	2,698			$	8		$	2,518
	Corporate bonds	2		513				—			—
	Total	$	9	$	3,211			$	8		$	2,518
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	At September 30, 2013, the fair value of Cleco Power’s available-for-sale debt securities by contractual maturity was:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013
	One year or less	$	5,740
	Over one year through five years	6,535
	Total fair value	$	12,275
Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured On A Recurring Basis
	Cleco Power
		CLECO POWER FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS AT REPORTING DATE USING:
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		QUOTED PRICES IN				SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT			AT DEC. 31, 2012			QUOTED PRICES IN			SIGNIFICANT			SIGNIFICANT
				ACTIVE MARKETS				OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE						ACTIVE MARKETS			OTHER			UNOBSERVABLE
				FOR IDENTICAL				OBSERVABLE			INPUTS						FOR IDENTICAL			OBSERVABLE			INPUTS
				ASSETS				INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)						ASSETS			INPUTS			(LEVEL 3)
				(LEVEL 1)				(LEVEL 2)									(LEVEL 1)			(LEVEL 2)
	Asset Description
	Institutional money market funds	$	44,005	$	—			$	44,005		$	—		$	33,292		$	—		$	33,292		$	—
	Municipal bonds	9,631		—				9,631			—			10,203			—			10,203			—
	Corporate bonds	513		—				513			—			—			—			—			—
	Total assets	$	54,149	$	—			$	54,149		$	—		$	43,495		$	—		$	43,495		$	—
	Liability Description
	Interest rate derivatives	$	—	$	—			$	—		$	—		$	2,627		$	—		$	2,627		$	—
	Long-term debt	1,419,560		—				1,419,560			—			1,554,674			—			1,554,674			—
	Total liabilities	$	1,419,560	$	—			$	1,419,560		$	—		$	1,557,301		$	—		$	1,557,301		$	—

Pension_Plan_and_Employee_Bene1

Pension Plan and Employee Benefits (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
401(k) Plan [Abstract]
401(k) Plan expense	Cleco’s 401(k) Plan expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,						FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	401(k) Plan expense	$	936		$	963		$	3,361	$	3,303
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Net periodic benefit costs	The components of net periodic pension and other benefit cost for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, are as follows:
		PENSION BENEFITS						OTHER BENEFITS
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	Components of periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	2,472		$	2,078		$	614	$	303
	Interest cost	4,485			4,563			214		334
	Expected return on plan assets	(5,861		)	(5,201		)	—		—
	Amortizations:
	Transition obligation	—			—			6		5
	Prior period service credit	(18		)	(18		)	—		—
	Net loss	3,304			2,087			213		112
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	4,382		$	3,509		$	1,047	$	754
		PENSION BENEFITS						OTHER BENEFITS
		FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	Components of periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	7,417		$	6,234		$	1,242	$	1,096
	Interest cost	13,455			13,690			1,176		1,287
	Expected return on plan assets	(17,584		)	(15,604		)	—		—
	Amortizations:
	Transition obligation	—			—			15		15
	Prior period service credit	(53		)	(53		)	—		—
	Net loss	9,913			6,259			849		512
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	13,148		$	10,526		$	3,282	$	2,910
SERP Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Net periodic benefit costs	The components of net periodic SERP benefit cost for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, are as follows:
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,						FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012			2013		2012
	Components of periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	514		$	372		$	1,541	$	1,115
	Interest cost	645			632			1,934		1,895
	Amortizations:
	Prior period service cost	13			13			40		40
	Net loss	576			441			1,728		1,324
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,748		$	1,458		$	5,243	$	4,374

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective income tax rates	The following table summarizes the effective income tax rates for Cleco and Cleco Power for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,					FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
		2013		2012			2013			2012
	Cleco	34.1	%	24	%		33	%		27.8	%
	Cleco Power	35	%	25.5	%		34.6	%		31	%
Liability and expense related to unrecognized tax benefits	The total amounts of uncertain tax positions and related interest payable and interest expense, as reflected on Cleco and Cleco Power’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Income, are shown in the following tables.
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013			AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Interest payable
	Cleco	$	2,069		$	1,420
	Cleco Power	$	3,712		$	3,358
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,							FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013			2012				2013			2012
	Interest charges
	Cleco	$	174		$	(121	)		$	(116	)	$	(8,477	)
	Cleco Power	$	113		$	133			$	354		$	(9,504	)

Disclosures_about_Segments_Tab

Disclosures about Segments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information
	SEGMENT INFORMATION FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	2013 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	314,766		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	314,766
	Tolling operations	—			12,339			—			(12,339		)	—
	Other operations	14,301			1			541			—			14,843
	Electric customer credits	(846		)	—			—			—			(846		)
	Affiliate revenue	335			—			13,313			(13,648		)	—
	Operating revenue, net	$	328,556		$	12,340		$	13,854		$	(25,987	)	$	328,763
	Depreciation	$	39,962		$	1,522		$	272		$	—		$	41,756
	Interest charges	$	18,656		$	312		$	(110	)	$	156		$	19,014
	Interest income	$	331		$	—		$	(156	)	$	157		$	332
	Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	33,355		$	4,083		$	(3,048	)	$	(1	)	$	34,389
	Net income	$	61,885		$	1,164		$	3,358		$	—		$	66,407
	Additions to long-lived assets	$	38,585		$	337		$	358		$	—		$	39,280
	Equity investment in investees	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	1		$	14,541
	Total segment assets	$	3,881,391		$	219,028		$	106,158		$	(79,060	)	$	4,127,517
	2012 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	282,894		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	282,894
	Tolling operations	—			13,890			—			(13,890		)	—
	Other operations	14,905			1			502			—			15,408
	Electric customer credits	(930		)	—			—			—			(930		)
	Affiliate revenue	343			—			12,343			(12,686		)	$	—
	Operating revenue, net	$	297,212		$	13,891		$	12,845		$	(26,576	)	$	297,372
	Depreciation	$	33,199		$	1,499		$	233		$	—		$	34,931
	Interest charges	$	21,962		$	(69	)	$	(124	)	$	197		$	21,966
	Interest income	$	129		$	—		$	(194	)	$	197		$	132
	Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	19,740		$	2,489		$	(2,050	)	$	—		$	20,179
	Net income	$	57,783		$	3,429		$	2,606		$	—		$	63,818
	Additions to long-lived assets	$	65,073		$	799		$	503		$	—		$	66,375
	Equity investment in investees (1)	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	—		$	14,540
	Total segment assets  (1)	$	3,871,729		$	215,342		$	201,678		$	(141,400	)	$	4,147,349
	(1) Balances as of December 31, 2012
	SEGMENT INFORMATION FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	2013 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	796,957		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	796,957
	Tolling operations	—			26,483			—			(26,483		)	—
	Other operations	36,366			2			1,550			(1		)	37,917
	Electric customer credits	(1,270		)	—			—			—			(1,270		)
	Affiliate revenue	1,005			—			40,406			(41,411		)	—
	Operating revenue	$	833,058		$	26,485		$	41,956		$	(67,895	)	$	833,604
	Depreciation	$	105,251		$	4,523		$	755		$	—		$	110,529
	Interest charges	$	60,882		$	(338	)	$	334		$	480		$	61,358
	Interest income	$	784		$	—		$	(474	)	$	479		$	789
	Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	65,558		$	7,221		$	(5,887	)	$	—		$	66,892
	Net income	$	124,142		$	6,180		$	5,251		$	(1	)	$	135,572
	Additions to long-lived assets	$	124,731		$	2,664		$	1,629		$	—		$	129,024
	Equity investment in investees	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	1		$	14,541
	Total segment assets	$	3,881,391		$	219,028		$	106,158		$	(79,060	)	$	4,127,517
	2012 (THOUSANDS)	CLECO POWER			MIDSTREAM			OTHER			ELIMINATIONS			CONSOLIDATED
	Revenue
	Electric operations	$	720,776		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	720,776
	Tolling operations	—			21,434			—			(21,434		)	—
	Other operations	36,967			2			1,496			(1		)	38,464
	Electric customer credits	1,025			—			—			—			1,025
	Affiliate revenue	1,030			—			37,540			(38,570		)	—
	Operating revenue	$	759,798		$	21,436		$	39,036		$	(60,005	)	$	760,265
	Depreciation	$	93,847		$	4,491		$	689		$	1		$	99,028
	Interest charges	$	61,253		$	244		$	1,320		$	388		$	63,205
	Interest income	$	153		$	—		$	(379	)	$	389		$	163
	Equity income from investees, before tax	$	—		$	—		$	1		$	—		$	1
Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	$	54,748		$	7,278		$	(7,916	)	$	—		$	54,110
Net income	$	121,873		$	11,053		$	7,610		$	—		$	140,536
Additions to long-lived assets	$	159,836		$	6,811		$	1,371		$	—		$	168,018
Equity investment in investees (1)	$	14,532		$	—		$	8		$	—		$	14,540
Total segment assets (1)	$	3,871,729		$	215,342		$	201,678		$	(141,400	)	$	4,147,349
(1) Balances as of December 31, 2012

Variable_Interest_Entities_Tab

Variable Interest Entities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]
Components of Equity Investments	The following table presents the components of Cleco Power’s equity investment in Oxbow.
	INCEPTION TO DATE (THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Purchase price	$	12,873	$	12,873
	Cash contributions	1,659		1,659
	Total equity investment in investee	$	14,532	$	14,532
Comparison of Investee's Assets and Liabilities with Maximum Exposure to Loss	The following table compares the carrying amount of Oxbow’s assets and liabilities with Cleco’s maximum exposure to loss related to its investment in Oxbow.
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Oxbow’s net assets/liabilities	$	29,065	$	29,065
	Cleco Power’s 50% equity	$	14,532	$	14,532
	Cleco’s maximum exposure to loss	$	14,532	$	14,532
Equity Method Investments - Summarized Financial Information	The following tables contain summarized financial information for Oxbow.
	(THOUSANDS)	AT SEPT. 30, 2013		AT DEC. 31, 2012
	Current assets	$	2,182	$	1,814
	Property, plant, and equipment, net	22,698		23,029
	Other assets	4,254		4,248
	Total assets	$	29,134	$	29,091
	Current liabilities	$	69	$	26
	Partners’ capital	29,065		29,065
	Total liabilities and partners’ capital	$	29,134	$	29,091
		FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,				FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30,
	(THOUSANDS)	2013		2012		2013		2012
	Operating revenue	$	856	$	450	$	1,795	$	1,125
	Operating expenses	856		450		1,795		1,125
	Income before taxes	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—

Litigation_Other_Commitments_a1

Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees [Abstract]
Off-Balance Sheet Commitments	The following table summarizes the expected amount of commitment termination per period of off-balance sheet commitments and on-balance sheet guarantees discussed above.
								AT SEPT. 30, 2013
				AMOUNT OF COMMITMENT EXPIRATION PER PERIOD
	(THOUSANDS)	NET		LESS THAN		1-3 YEARS		3-5 YEARS		MORE
		AMOUNT		ONE YEAR						THAN
		COMMITTED								5 YEARS
	Off-balance sheet commitments	$	4,225	$	3,725	$	—	$	—	$	500
	On-balance sheet guarantees	4,906		900		—		—		4,006
	Total	$	9,131	$	4,625	$	—	$	—	$	4,506
	Cleco’s off-balance sheet commitments as of September 30, 2013, are summarized in the following table and a discussion of the off-balance sheet commitments follows the table. The discussion should be read in conjunction with the table to understand the impact of the off-balance sheet commitments on Cleco’s financial condition.
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	FACE		REDUCTIONS		NET
		AMOUNT				AMOUNT
	Cleco Corporation
	Guarantee issued to Entergy Mississippi on behalf of Attala	$	500	$	—	$	500
	Cleco Power
	Obligations under standby letter of credit issued to the Louisiana Department of Labor	3,725		—		3,725
	Total	$	4,225	$	—	$	4,225
Other Commitments	The following table reflects remaining future equity contributions.
	(THOUSANDS)	CONTRIBUTION
	Three months ending Dec. 31, 2013	$	12,071
	Years ending Dec. 31,
	2014	47,434
	2015	11,195
	2016	3,698
	2017	2,914
	Total	$	77,312
Equity Investments with an Imputed Interest Rate	The following table contains the disclosures required by the authoritative guidelines for equity investments with an imputed interest rate.
	(THOUSANDS)
	Equity contributions, imputed interest rate 6%
	Principal payment schedule above:	$	77,312
	Less:  unamortized discount	5,015
	Total	$	72,297

Affiliate_Transactions_Affilia

Affiliate Transactions Affiliate Transactions (Tables) (Cleco Power [Member])	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Cleco Power [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]	Cleco Power has affiliate balances that are payable to or due from its affiliates. The following table is a summary of those balances.
		AT SEPT. 30, 2013				AT DEC. 31, 2012
	(THOUSANDS)	ACCOUNTS		ACCOUNTS		ACCOUNTS		ACCOUNTS
		RECEIVABLE		PAYABLE		RECEIVABLE		PAYABLE
	Cleco Corporation	$	5	$	368	$	139	$	1,140
	Support Group	1,160		6,415		2,777		7,528
	Midstream	63		2		27		5
	Evangeline	21		3,371		6		1,401
	Diversified Lands	10		84		42		23
	Other (1)	1		—		—		—
	Total	$	1,260	$	10,240	$	2,991	$	10,097
	(1) Represents Perryville and Attala

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The
Cleco Power [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Cleco Power
					FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT NET (LOSS) GAIN			NET (LOSS) GAIN			TOTAL ACCUMULATED
					ON CASH			OTHER COMPREHENSIVE
					FLOW HEDGES			(LOSS) GAIN
	Balances, June 30, 2013	$	(12,272	)	$	(6,256	)	$	(18,528	)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income:
	Amortization of postretirement benefit net loss	207			—			207
	Reclassification of net loss to interest charges	—			53			53
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	207			53			260
	Balances, Sept. 30, 2013	$	(12,065	)	$	(6,203	)	$	(18,268	)
					FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPT. 30, 2013
	(THOUSANDS)	POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT NET (LOSS) GAIN			NET (LOSS) GAIN			TOTAL ACCUMULATED
					ON CASH			OTHER COMPREHENSIVE
					FLOW HEDGES			(LOSS) GAIN
	Balances, Dec. 31, 2012	$	(12,792	)	$	(7,629	)	$	(20,421	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications:
	Net derivative gain	—			1,355			1,355
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income:
	Amortization of postretirement benefit net loss	727			—			727
	Reclassification of net loss to interest charges	—			102			102
	Reclassification of ineffectiveness to regulatory asset	—			(31		)	(31		)
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	727			1,426			2,153
	Balances, Sept. 30, 2013	$	(12,065	)	$	(6,203	)	$	(18,268	)

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Property, Plant, and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Public Utility, Property, Plant, and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, plant, and equipment	$4,272,907	$4,140,194
Accumulated depreciation	-1,371,857	-1,311,273
Net property, plant, and equipment	2,901,050	2,828,921
Unregulated Operation [Member]
Public Utility, Property, Plant, and Equipment [Line Items]
Other	271,713	268,254
Regulated Operation [Member]
Public Utility, Property, Plant, and Equipment [Line Items]
Regulated utility plants	$4,001,194	$3,871,940

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$8,471,000		$8,471,000	$14,221,000
Diversified Lands Mitigation Escrow Agreement [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	97,000		97,000	97,000
Katrina/Rita Bond Payments [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	3,359,000		3,359,000	8,781,000
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cleco Katrina/Rita Storm Recover Bond Variance [Abstract]
Restricted cash collected by Cleco Katrina/Rita, net of administration fees			14,900,000
Restricted cash used by Cleco Katrina/Rita for bond principal payments	-6,800,000	-7,100,000
Restricted cash used by Cleco Katrina/Rita for bond interest payments	-3,100,000	-3,300,000
Future Storm Restoration Costs [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	4,944,000		4,944,000	5,343,000
Building Renovations Escrow [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$71,000		$71,000	$0

Summary_of_Significant_Account5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Risk Management (Details) (Energy Related Derivative [Member], Cleco Power [Member])	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	MMBTU	MMBTU
Energy Related Derivative [Member] | Cleco Power [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Number of open derivative positions	0	0

Summary_of_Significant_Account6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Earnings Per Average Common Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Income
Basic net income applicable to common stock	$66,407	$63,818	$135,572	$140,536
Diluted net income applicable to common stock	$66,407	$63,818	$135,572	$140,536
Shares
Average number of basic common shares outstanding (in shares)	60,450,384	60,346,476	60,428,944	60,375,538
Effect of dilutive securities
Add: stock option grants (in shares)	0	1,536	0	4,518
Add: restricted stock (LTICP) (in shares)	298,263	251,191	265,688	246,415
Average number of diluted common shares outstanding (in shares)	60,748,647	60,599,203	60,694,632	60,626,471
Per Share Amount
Net income applicable to common stock (in dollars per share)	$1.10	$1.06	$2.25	$2.33
Diluted net income per average common share (in dollars per share)	$1.09	$1.05	$2.23	$2.32
Stock Options [Member]
Per Share Amount
Amount of stock options excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)				0

Summary_of_Significant_Account7

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	$1,585	$1,988	$4,488	$4,834
Tax benefit	610	765	1,727	1,860
Equity Classification [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	1,585	1,141	4,487	3,282
Non-vested Stock [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	1,585	1,139	4,487	3,271
Stock Options [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	0	2	0	11
Common Stock Equivalent Units [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	0	847	1	1,552
Cleco Power [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	492	639	1,205	1,423
Tax benefit	189	246	463	548
Cleco Power [Member] | Equity Classification [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	492	301	1,204	792
Cleco Power [Member] | Non-vested Stock [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	492	301	1,204	792
Cleco Power [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	0	0	0	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Common Stock Equivalent Units [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	$0	$338	$1	$631
LTIP [Member] | Non-vested Stock [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation [Line Items]
Non-vested stock granted during the period (in shares)			139,048

Regulatory_Assets_and_Liabilit2

Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Summary of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities (Details) (Cleco Power [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Total regulatory assets, net	$529,030	$510,688
Construction carrying costs - liability [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory liabilities	0	-8,255
Deferred Income Tax Charges [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	217,550	210,445
Total regulatory assets - other [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	304,629	300,665
Mining costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	14,657	16,569
Interest costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	6,033	6,304
Asset removal costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	919	867
Postretirement plan costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	146,597	156,458
Tree trimming costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	4,945	5,656
Training costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	7,214	7,330
Storm surcredits, net [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	16,738	6,211
Construction carrying costs - asset [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	0	4,697
Lignite mining agreement contingency [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	3,781	3,781
Power purchase agreement capacity costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	13,316	6,217
AMI Deferred Revenue Requirement [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	3,960	1,483
AFUDC equity gross-up [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	73,518	74,158
Rate case costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	179	581
Acadia Unit 1 acquisition costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	2,786	2,865
IRP/RFP costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	0	39
AMI pilot costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	0	22
Financing costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	9,864	7,282
Biomass costs [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	122	145
Fuel and purchased power [Member]
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]
Regulatory assets	$6,851	$7,833

Regulatory_Assets_and_Liabilit3

Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Additional Disclosures (Details) (Cleco Power [Member], USD $)

36 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Apr. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2012

7-May-13

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Feb. 28, 2011

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Evangeline [Member]

Evangeline [Member]

Swap [Member]

Construction carrying costs - liability [Member]

Deferred storm surcredits, net [Member]

Deferred storm surcredits, net [Member]

Deferred storm surcredits, net [Member]

AMI Deferred Revenue Requirement [Member]

AMI Deferred Revenue Requirement [Member]

AMI Deferred Revenue Requirement [Member]

AMI Deferred Revenue Requirement [Member]

Construction carrying costs - asset [Member]

Construction carrying costs - asset [Member]

Fuel and purchased power [Member]

Fuel and purchased power [Member]

Fuel and purchased power [Member]

Biomass costs [Member]

Biomass costs [Member]

Financing costs [Member]

Financing costs [Member]

Financing costs [Member]

Evangeline Power Purchase Agreement [Member]

Evangeline Power Purchase Agreement [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Swap [Member]

MW

Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Net [Line Items]

Withdrawal from Restricted Storm Reserve

$10,000,000

Amortization period (in years)

P15Y

P4Y

Amount of construction carrying costs returned to customers

166,000,000

Long-term power purchase agreement, term (in years)

3 years

Capacity and energy provided by a power purchase agreement (in MW)

730

Regulatory assets

16,738,000

6,211,000

3,960,000

1,483,000

20,000,000

0

4,697,000

6,851,000

6,851,000

7,833,000

122,000

145,000

9,864,000

7,282,000

Gain (Loss) on the settlement of forward starting interest rate derivative

-3,300,000

Gain (Loss) deferred as a regulatory asset on settlement of forward starting interest rate derivative

-2,900,000

-2,900,000

Percentage of total fuel cost regulated by LPSC (in hundredths)

88.00%

Increase (decrease) in other regulatory assets

($1,000,000)

Fair_Value_Accounting_Carrying

Fair Value Accounting, Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Carrying Value [Member]
Financial instruments not marked-to-market [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$46,800	$31,020
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	8,471	14,221
Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	1,306,230	1,345,198
Estimated Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments not marked-to-market [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	46,800	31,020
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	8,471	14,221
Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	1,419,560	1,579,674
Cleco Power [Member] | Carrying Value [Member]
Financial instruments not marked-to-market [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	42,560	23,368
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	8,374	14,124
Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	1,306,230	1,320,198
Cleco Power [Member] | Estimated Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments not marked-to-market [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	42,560	23,368
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	8,374	14,124
Long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	$1,419,560	$1,554,674

Fair_Value_Accounting_Concentr

Fair Value Accounting, Concentration of Risk (Details) (Maximum Amount of Loss [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Concentrations of credit risk through short-term investments	$45.60
Concentrations of credit risk through short-term investments in cash equivalents	37.3
Concentrations of credit risk through short-term investments in restricted cash equivalents	8.3
Cleco Power [Member]
Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Concentrations of credit risk through short-term investments	41.8
Concentrations of credit risk through short-term investments in cash equivalents	33.5
Concentrations of credit risk through short-term investments in restricted cash equivalents	$8.30

Fair_Value_Accounting_Fair_Val

Fair Value Accounting, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures(Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	$37,300
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	3,400
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	5,100
Restricted Investment, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	2,100
Municipal Bonds [Member] | Restricted Investment, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	9,600
Corporate Bond Securities [Member] | Restricted Investment, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	500
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Estimated Fair Value [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	47,901	39,489
Total Assets	58,045	49,692
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	2,627
Long-term debt	1,419,560	1,579,674
Total Liabilities	1,419,560	1,582,301
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Estimated Fair Value [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	9,631	10,203
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Estimated Fair Value [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	513	0
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	0	0
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	0	0
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	47,901	39,489
Total Assets	58,045	49,692
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	2,627
Long-term debt	1,419,560	1,579,674
Total Liabilities	1,419,560	1,582,301
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	9,631	10,203
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	513	0
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	0	0
Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	0	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	33,500
Cleco Power [Member] | Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	3,400
Cleco Power [Member] | Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	5,000
Cleco Power [Member] | Restricted Investment, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	2,100
Cleco Power [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	9,631	10,203
Cleco Power [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member] | Restricted Investment, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	9,600
Cleco Power [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	513	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member] | Restricted Investment, Noncurrent [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	500
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Estimated Fair Value [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	44,005	33,292
Total Assets	54,149	43,495
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	2,627
Long-term debt	1,419,560	1,554,674
Total Liabilities	1,419,560	1,557,301
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Estimated Fair Value [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	9,631	10,203
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Estimated Fair Value [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	513	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	0	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	0	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	44,005	33,292
Total Assets	54,149	43,495
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	2,627
Long-term debt	1,419,560	1,554,674
Total Liabilities	1,419,560	1,557,301
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	9,631	10,203
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	513	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Asset Description
Institutional money market funds	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liability Description
Interest rate derivatives	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Municipal Bonds [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	0	0
Cleco Power [Member] | Measured On A Recurring Basis [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Asset Description
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Accounting_Restrict

Fair Value Accounting, Restricted Investments (Details) (Cleco Power [Member], USD $)	Jul. 02, 2012	Sep. 30, 2007	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
			Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Debt Securities [Member]	Municipal Bonds [Member]	Municipal Bonds [Member]	Corporate Bond Securities [Member]	Corporate Bond Securities [Member]	Commercial Paper [Member]	Commercial Paper [Member]
								Restricted Storm Reserve [Member]	Restricted Storm Reserve [Member]	Restricted Storm Reserve [Member]	Restricted Storm Reserve [Member]
								Maximum [Member]	Maximum [Member]	Maximum [Member]	Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
LPSC authorized storm reserve funding		$50,000,000
Amount of restricted cash and cash equivalents transfered to an investment manager	13,000,000
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities					0
Reconciliation of available-for-sale debt securities from amortized cost to fair value[Abstract]
Amortized Cost			12,287,000		12,287,000		10,877,000					9,641,000	10,228,000	515,000	0	2,131,000	649,000
Total Unrealized Gains					5,000		3,000					5,000	3,000	0	0	0	0
Total Unrealized Losses					17,000		28,000					15,000	28,000	2,000	0	0	0
Fair Value			12,275,000		12,275,000		10,852,000					9,631,000	10,203,000	513,000	0	2,131,000	649,000
Unrealized mark-to-market gain (loss) available-for-sale securities								100,000	-100,000	100,000	-100,000
Summary of the debt securities that were in an unrealized loss position [Abstract]
Less Than 12 Months Aggregate Unrealized Loss					9,000							7,000		2,000
Less Than 12 Months Aggregate Related Fair Value			3,211,000		3,211,000							2,698,000		513,000
12 Months or Longer Aggregate Unrealized Loss					8,000							8,000		0
12 Months or Longer Aggregate Related Fair Value			2,518,000		2,518,000							2,518,000		0
Available-for-sale securities, debt securities by contractual Maturity[Abstract]
One year or less			5,740,000		5,740,000
Over one year through five years			6,535,000		6,535,000
Total fair value			12,275,000		12,275,000		10,852,000					9,631,000	10,203,000	513,000	0	2,131,000	649,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Realized Gain (Loss)			$0	$0	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Accounting_Derivati

Fair Value Accounting, Derivatives and Hedging (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Nov. 14, 2011

30-May-13

7-May-13

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Swap [Member]

Swap [Member]

Swap [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

Energy Related Derivative [Member]

AccumulatedDeferredFuel [Member]

AccumulatedDeferredFuel [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member]

MMBTU

MMBTU

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]

AccumulatedDeferredFuel [Member]

AccumulatedDeferredFuel [Member]

Fuel Used For Electric Generation [Member]

Fuel Used For Electric Generation [Member]

Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]

Net gain (loss) on derivative recognized in income

$0

$0

$0

$0

Loss recognized in income

600,000

8,200,000

Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative

0

0

Net gain (loss) on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

0

0

Balance of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments recorded on the balance sheet

0

0

Number of open derivative positions

0

0

Notional amount of derivative

50,000,000

Remaining maturity of derivative

30 years

Interest rate on derivative

3.05%

Gain (Loss) on the settlement of forward starting interest rate derivative

-3,300,000

Gain (Loss) deferred as a regulatory asset on settlement of forward starting interest rate derivative

-2,900,000

Gain (loss) on forward starting interest rate swap remaining in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

-400,000

Amortization period of gain (loss) on settlement of the forward starting interest rate derivative

25 years

Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Abstract]

Gain (Loss) recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), effective portion

0

802,000

1,762,000

-733,000

Gain (Loss) reclassified from accumulated OCI into income, effective portion

-86,000

17,000

-165,000

-39,000

Net hedge ineffectiveness gain (loss)

0

0

3,300,000

2,600,000

Interest rate cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified during the next 12 months

($300,000)

Debt_Shortterm_Debt_Details

Debt, Short-term Debt (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	$0	$0
Cleco Power [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	$0	$0

Debt_Longterm_Debt_Details

Debt, Long-term Debt (Details) (USD $)

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

3-May-13

3-May-13

Sep. 30, 2013

7-May-13

Sep. 30, 2013

Mar. 01, 2013

9-May-13

Sep. 30, 2013

Mar. 20, 2013

Line of Credit [Member]

Capital Lease Obligations [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Debt Discount Amortization [Member]

Cleco Katrina Rita Storm Recovery Bonds [Member]

Series A GO Zone bonds [Member]

Series B GO Zone bonds [Member]

Cleco Power's solid waste disposal facility bonds, 5.25%, due 2037, mandatory tender on March 1, 2013 [Member]

Bank Term Loan [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Notes Payable to Banks [Member]

Capital Lease Obligations [Member]

Notes Payable to Banks [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Debt Discount Amortization [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Cleco Katrina Rita Storm Recovery Bonds [Member]

Series A GO Zone bonds [Member]

Series A GO Zone bonds [Member]

Series A GO Zone bonds [Member]

Series B GO Zone bonds [Member]

Series B GO Zone bonds [Member]

Cleco Power's solid waste disposal facility bonds, 5.25%, due 2037, mandatory tender on March 1, 2013 [Member]

Cleco Power's solid waste disposal facility bonds, 5.25%, due 2037, mandatory tender on March 1, 2013 [Member]

Bank Term Loan [Member]

Bank Term Loan [Member]

Bank Term Loan [Member]

Notes Payable to Banks [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Notes Payable to Banks [Member]

Notes Payable to Banks [Member]

Notes Payable to Banks [Member]

Bonds [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Long-term debt outstanding, total

$1,310,000,000

$1,310,000,000

Long-term debt due within one year

17,147,000

91,140,000

17,147,000

91,140,000

Principal payments for Cleco Katrina/Rita storm recovery bonds due within one year

14,900,000

14,900,000

Capital lease payments due within one year

2,200,000

2,200,000

Increase (Decrease) in debt instrument, net

-40,300,000

-25,000,000

-1,600,000

-75,000,000

300,000

-14,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

-60,000,000

35,000,000

-15,300,000

-1,600,000

-75,000,000

300,000

-14,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

-60,000,000

35,000,000

Face value of outstanding bonds purchased

60,000,000

Accrued interest paid on purchase of bonds

1,600,000

Face amount of debt instrument

50,000,000

50,000,000

60,000,000

Repayments of bank term loan

25,000,000

Balance of bank term loan

$35,000,000

Interest rate (in ten-thousandths)

0.93%

0.94%

4.25%

0.11%

Component of basis spread, percentage of variable interest rate (in ten-thousandths)

65.00%

Basis spread on variable interest rate (in ten-thousandths)

0.75%

0.82%

Debt_Credit_Facilities_Details

Debt, Credit Facilities (Details) (Line of Credit [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	$0
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity	250
Cleco Power [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	0
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity	$300

Pension_Plan_and_Employee_Bene2

Pension Plan and Employee Benefits, Pension Plan and Other Benefits Plan (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended			1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended			3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
	Pension Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Other Subsidiaries [Member]	Other Subsidiaries [Member]	Other Subsidiaries [Member]	Other Subsidiaries [Member]
											Pension Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Other Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]	Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension contributions designated for prior plan year											$34,000,000
Discretionary contributions to the pension plan					0
Current portion of other benefits liability						3,100,000		3,100,000		3,100,000		2,900,000		2,900,000		2,900,000
Components of periodic benefit costs
Service cost	2,472,000	2,078,000	7,417,000	6,234,000		614,000	303,000	1,242,000	1,096,000
Interest cost	4,485,000	4,563,000	13,455,000	13,690,000		214,000	334,000	1,176,000	1,287,000
Expected return on plan assets	-5,861,000	-5,201,000	-17,584,000	-15,604,000		0	0	0	0
Transition obligation	0	0	0	0		6,000	5,000	15,000	15,000
Prior period service cost (credit)	-18,000	-18,000	-53,000	-53,000		0	0	0	0
Net loss	3,304,000	2,087,000	9,913,000	6,259,000		213,000	112,000	849,000	512,000
Net periodic benefit cost	$4,382,000	$3,509,000	$13,148,000	$10,526,000		$1,047,000	$754,000	$3,282,000	$2,910,000			$900,000	$700,000	$2,800,000	$2,500,000		$600,000	$500,000	$1,900,000	$1,600,000

Pension_Plan_and_Employee_Bene3

Pension Plan and Employee Benefits, SERP (Details) (SERP Benefits [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer			$0	$0
Components of periodic benefit costs
Service cost (credit)	514,000	372,000	1,541,000	1,115,000
Interest cost	645,000	632,000	1,934,000	1,895,000
Prior period service cost (credit)	13,000	13,000	40,000	40,000
Net loss	576,000	441,000	1,728,000	1,324,000
Net periodic benefit cost	1,748,000	1,458,000	5,243,000	4,374,000
Curent portion of SERP liability	2,700,000		2,700,000		2,500,000
Cleco Power [Member]
Components of periodic benefit costs
Net periodic benefit cost	400,000	400,000	1,200,000	1,100,000
Curent portion of SERP liability	$800,000		$800,000		$800,000

Pension_Plan_and_Employee_Bene4

Pension Plan and Employee Benefits, 401 (K) Plans (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
401(k) Plan [Abstract]
401 (k) Plan expense	$936	$963	$3,361	$3,303
Other Subsidiaries [Member]
401(k) Plan [Abstract]
401 (k) Plan expense	$200	$200	$800	$800

Income_Taxes_Effective_Tax_Rat

Income Taxes, Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Effective Income Tax Rate [Line Items]
Effective income tax rates	34.10%	24.00%	33.00%	27.80%
Cleco Power [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate [Line Items]
Effective income tax rates	35.00%	25.50%	34.60%	31.00%

Income_Taxes_Valuation_Allowan

Income Taxes, Valuation Allowance (Details) (New Markets Tax Credit Carryforward [Member], USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
New Markets Tax Credit Carryforward [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance	$0
Tax credit carryforwards	$91.20	$78.80
Expiration date	1-Jan-29

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Uncert

Income Taxes, Income Tax Uncertainties (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract]
Interest payable associated with uncertain tax positions	$2,069,000		$2,069,000		$1,420,000
Interest charges related to uncertain tax positions	174,000	-121,000	-116,000	-8,477,000
Cleco Power [Member]
Uncertain Tax Positions [Abstract]
Interest payable associated with uncertain tax positions	3,712,000		3,712,000		3,358,000
Amounts expected to be recovered from customers under existing rate orders	8,400,000		8,400,000		6,200,000
Interest charges related to uncertain tax positions	$113,000	$133,000	$354,000	($9,504,000)

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Examin

Income Taxes, Income Tax Examination (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]	State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
				Minimum [Member]	Maximum [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Maximum [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Tax years that remain subject to examination				2007	2012	2002	2011
Summary of income tax examinations [Abstract]
Deposits with the IRS			$60.40
Deposits with the IRS remaining to offset tax and interest liabilities			43.5
Refund adjustment from settlement with taxing authority		42.3
Income tax years currently under examination				2010	2012
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Upper Bound	($4.60)

Disclosures_about_Segments_Det

Disclosures about Segments (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
	entity		entity
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of transmission interconnection facility subsidiaries	2		2
Revenue
Electric operations	$314,766	$282,894	$796,957	$720,776
Tolling operations	0	0	0	0
Other operations	14,843	15,408	37,917	38,464
Electric customer credits	-846	-930	-1,270	1,025
Affiliate revenue	0	0	0	0
Operating revenue, net	328,763	297,372	833,604	760,265
Depreciation	41,756	34,931	110,529	99,028
Interest Expense	19,014	21,966	61,358	63,205
Interest income	332	132	789	163
Equity income (loss) from investees, before tax			0	1
Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	34,389	20,179	66,892	54,110
Net income	66,407	63,818	135,572	140,536
Additions to long-lived assets	39,280	66,375	129,024	168,018
Equity investment in investees	14,541		14,541		14,540
Total segment assets	4,127,517		4,127,517		4,147,349
Operating Segments [Member] | Midstream [Member]
Revenue
Electric operations	0	0	0	0
Tolling operations	12,339	13,890	26,483	21,434
Other operations	1	1	2	2
Electric customer credits	0	0	0	0
Affiliate revenue	0	0	0	0
Operating revenue, net	12,340	13,891	26,485	21,436
Depreciation	1,522	1,499	4,523	4,491
Interest Expense	312	-69	-338	244
Interest income	0	0	0	0
Equity income (loss) from investees, before tax				0
Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	4,083	2,489	7,221	7,278
Net income	1,164	3,429	6,180	11,053
Additions to long-lived assets	337	799	2,664	6,811
Equity investment in investees	0		0		0
Total segment assets	219,028		219,028		215,342
Operating Segments [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member]
Revenue
Electric operations	0	0	0	0
Tolling operations	0	0	0	0
Other operations	541	502	1,550	1,496
Electric customer credits	0	0	0	0
Affiliate revenue	13,313	12,343	40,406	37,540
Operating revenue, net	13,854	12,845	41,956	39,036
Depreciation	272	233	755	689
Interest Expense	-110	-124	334	1,320
Interest income	-156	-194	-474	-379
Equity income (loss) from investees, before tax				1
Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	-3,048	-2,050	-5,887	-7,916
Net income	3,358	2,606	5,251	7,610
Additions to long-lived assets	358	503	1,629	1,371
Equity investment in investees	8		8		8
Total segment assets	106,158		106,158		201,678
Operating Segments [Member] | Cleco Power, LLC and Subsidiary, Segment [Member]
Revenue
Electric operations	314,766	282,894	796,957	720,776
Tolling operations	0	0	0	0
Other operations	14,301	14,905	36,366	36,967
Electric customer credits	-846	-930	-1,270	1,025
Affiliate revenue	335	343	1,005	1,030
Operating revenue, net	328,556	297,212	833,058	759,798
Depreciation	39,962	33,199	105,251	93,847
Interest Expense	18,656	21,962	60,882	61,253
Interest income	331	129	784	153
Equity income (loss) from investees, before tax				0
Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	33,355	19,740	65,558	54,748
Net income	61,885	57,783	124,142	121,873
Additions to long-lived assets	38,585	65,073	124,731	159,836
Equity investment in investees	14,532		14,532		14,532
Total segment assets	3,881,391		3,881,391		3,871,729
Intersegment Elimination [Member]
Revenue
Electric operations	0	0	0	0
Tolling operations	-12,339	-13,890	-26,483	-21,434
Other operations	0	0	-1	-1
Electric customer credits	0	0	0	0
Affiliate revenue	-13,648	-12,686	-41,411	-38,570
Operating revenue, net	-25,987	-26,576	-67,895	-60,005
Depreciation	0	0	0	1
Interest Expense	156	197	480	388
Interest income	157	197	479	389
Equity income (loss) from investees, before tax				0
Federal and state income tax expense (benefit)	-1	0	0	0
Net income	0	0	-1	0
Additions to long-lived assets	0	0	0	0
Equity investment in investees	1		1		0
Total segment assets	($79,060)		($79,060)		($141,400)

Electric_Customer_Credits_Deta

Electric Customer Credits (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 26, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013
			Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]
					Louisiana Public Service Commission [Member]	Louisiana Public Service Commission [Member]	Louisiana Public Service Commission [Member]	Louisiana Public Service Commission [Member]
					2010 FRP [Member]	2012 FRP Monitoring Report [Member]	2012 FRP Monitoring Report [Member]	2013 FRP Monitoring Report [Member]
Public Utilities, General Disclosures [Line Items]
Target return on equity allowed by FRP (in thousandths)					10.70%
Percentage of retail earnings within range to be returned to customers (in hundredths)					60.00%
Return on equity for customer credit, low range (in thousandths)					11.30%
Return on equity for customer credit, high range (in thousandths)					12.30%
Total customer credits						$2,400,000	$1,700,000	$2,200,000
Provision for rate refund	$2,967,000	$4,165,000	$2,967,000	$4,165,000

Variable_Interest_Entities_Det

Variable Interest Entities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Components of equity method investments [Abstract]
Total equity investment in investee	$14,541		$14,541		$14,540
Oxbow Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable interest entity, ownership percentage (in hundredths)			50.00%
Ownership percentage by other parties (in hundredths)			50.00%
Components of equity method investments [Abstract]
Purchase price	12,873		12,873		12,873
Cash contributions	1,659		1,659		1,659
Total equity investment in investee	14,532		14,532		14,532
Comparison of carrying amount of assets and liabilities to maximum loss exposure [Abstract]
Oxbow's net assets/liabilities	29,065		29,065		29,065
Cleco Power's 50% equity	14,532		14,532		14,532
Cleco's maximum exposure to loss	14,532		14,532		14,532
Summarized financial information [Abstract]
Current assets	2,182		2,182		1,814
Property, plant and equipment, net	22,698		22,698		23,029
Other assets	4,254		4,254		4,248
Total assets	29,134		29,134		29,091
Current liabilities	69		69		26
Partner's capital	29,065		29,065		29,065
Total liabilities and partners' capital	29,134		29,134		29,091
Operating revenue	856	450	1,795	1,125
Operating expenses	856	450	1,795	1,125
Income (loss) before taxes	0	0	0	0
Maximum [Member] | Subsidiaries Less Than 100% Owned by Diversified Lands LLC, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Components of equity method investments [Abstract]
Total equity investment in investee	$100		$100

Litigation_Other_Commitments_a2

Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees, Litigation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Mar. 09, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010
	Discrimination Complaint [Member]	Other Litigation Matters [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]	Cleco Power [Member]
	employee		Discrimination Complaint [Member]	Discrimination Complaint [Member]	City of Opelousas Litigation [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Customer [Member]
					claim	City of Opelousas Litigation [Member]	City of Opelousas Litigation [Member]
					resident		customer
Litigation [Abstract]
Loss contingency, damages sought, minimum amount			$2.50	$35		$30
Loss contingency, number of plaintiffs (in ones)	2						3
Number of residents in second class action lawsuit (in ones)					249
Number of class action law suits (in ones)					2
Amount of estimated loss		$8.90

Litigation_Other_Commitments_a3

Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees, Off-Balance Sheet Commitments (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2006
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Face amount	$4,225
Reductions	0
Net amount	4,225
Guarantee Issued to Entergy Mississippi on behalf of Attala [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Face amount	500
Reductions	0
Net amount	500	500
Cleco Power [Member] | Obligations Under Standby Letter of Credit Issued to the Louisiana Department of Labor [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Face amount	3,725
Reductions	0
Net amount	$3,725
Percentage of average losses on which letter of credit is based (in hundredths)	110.00%

Litigation_Other_Commitments_a4

Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees, Disclosures about Guarantees (Details) (USD $)

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jan. 31, 2006

Sep. 30, 2013

Feb. 28, 2010

Sep. 30, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Feb. 23, 2010

Sep. 30, 2013

Apr. 30, 2011

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Apr. 29, 2011

Feb. 28, 2010

Sep. 30, 2013

Financial Guarantee [Member]

Financial Guarantee [Member]

2004 sale of Perryville facility [Member]

Acadia Unit 1 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 1 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 1 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 1 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 1 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 1 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 2 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 2 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 2 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 2 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 2 Transaction [Member]

Acadia Unit 2 Transaction [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Cleco Power [Member]

Performance Guarantee [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Acadia Unit 1 Transaction [Member]

Lignite Mining Agreement Guarantee [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Guarantee Issued to Cleco Power on behalf of Acadia [Member]

Financial Guarantee [Member]

Disclosures about Guarantees [Abstract]

Liability recognized on the balance sheets

$4,906,000

$200,000

$900,000

$900,000

$3,800,000

Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted

4,225,000

500,000

42,400,000

10,000,000

298,800,000

298,800,000

30,000,000

72,500,000

Guarantees, Fair Value Disclosure

0

13,500,000

21,800,000

Guarantor Obligations, Term

P3Y

P3Y

Maximum residual value of indemnification obligation

200,000

200,000

Income from contractual expiration of indemnification

0

400,000

7,200,000

100,000

0

0

6,900,000

11,800,000

Off-balance sheet commitments, expected termination dates [Abstract]

Net amount

4,225,000

500,000

500,000

Less than 1 year

3,725,000

1-3 years

0

3-5 years

0

More than 5 years

500,000

On-balance sheet guarantees, expected termination dates [Abstract]

Net amount committed

4,906,000

200,000

900,000

900,000

3,800,000

Less than 1 year

900,000

1-3 years

0

3-5 years

0

More than 5 years

4,006,000

Total off-balance sheet commitments and on-balance sheet guarantees, expected termination dates [Abstract]

Total net amount committed

9,131,000

Total less than 1 year

4,625,000

Total 1-3 years

0

Total 3-5 years

0

Total more than 5 years

$4,506,000

Litigation_Other_Commitments_a5

Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees, Other Commitments (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2008
Litigation, Other Commitments and Contingencies, and Disclosures about Guarantees [Abstract]
Membership interest in U.S Bank New Markets Tax Credit Fund (in thousandths)		99.90%
Equity contributions to be made to the Fund	$283,600,000
Net tax benefits to be received from the Fund	301,900,000
Difference between equity contributions and total benefits received will be recognized over the life of the Fund as net tax benefits	18,300,000
Future equity contributions to the NMTC Fund [Abstract]
Three months ending Dec. 31, 2013	12,071,000
Year ending Dec. 31, 2014	47,434,000
Year ending Dec. 31, 2015	11,195,000
Year ending Dec. 31, 2016	3,698,000
Year ending Dec. 31, 2017	2,914,000
Total	77,312,000
Total future equity contributions	77,312,000
Future equity contributions due within the next 12 months	48,300,000
Tax benefits in excess of capital contributions	83,400,000
Tax benefits not utilized	112,300,000
Equity contributions with an imputed interest rate [Abstract]
Equity contributions - imputed interst rate (in hundredths)	6.00%
Principal payment schedule above:	77,312,000
Less: unamortized discount	5,015,000
Total	$72,297,000
Period of recognition of gross investment amortization expense (in years)	10 years
Remaining period of recognition of gross investment amortization expense (in years)	4 years

Affiliate_Transactions_Details

Affiliate Transactions (Details) (Cleco Power [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts payable - affiliate	$10,240	$10,097
Accounts receivable - affiliate	1,260	2,991
Cleco Corporation [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts payable - affiliate	368	1,140
Accounts receivable - affiliate	5	139
Support Group [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts payable - affiliate	6,415	7,528
Accounts receivable - affiliate	1,160	2,777
Midstream [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts payable - affiliate	2	5
Accounts receivable - affiliate	63	27
Evangeline [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts payable - affiliate	3,371	1,401
Accounts receivable - affiliate	21	6
Diversified Lands [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts payable - affiliate	84	23
Accounts receivable - affiliate	10	42
Others [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts payable - affiliate	0	0
Accounts receivable - affiliate	$1	$0

Storm_Restoration_Details

Storm Restoration (Details) (Cleco Power [Member], Hurricane Isaac [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 02, 2012	Aug. 28, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified			customer
Cleco Power [Member] | Hurricane Isaac [Member]
Storm Resotration [Line Items]
Approximate number of customers affected (in ones)			95,000
Percent of customers affected (in hundredths)			34.00%
Percent of customers restored (in hundredths)		100.00%
Cost of storm restoration	$24.30
Percent of storm restoration costs capitalized (in hundredths)	56.00%
Capitalized storm restoration costs	$13.60

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	($29,875)		($32,370)
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	497		1,619
Net current-period other comprehensive income	550	815	3,045	2,364
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-29,325		-29,325
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-23,619		-24,741
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	497		1,619
Net current-period other comprehensive income	497		1,619
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-23,122		-23,122
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-6,256		-7,629
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Net current-period other comprehensive income	53		1,426
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-6,203		-6,203
Interest Expense [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Interest Expense [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Regulatory Asset [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			-31
Regulatory Asset [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			-31
Cleco Power [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-18,528		-20,421
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	207		727
Net current-period other comprehensive income	260	607	2,153	1,698
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-18,268		-18,268
Cleco Power [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-12,272		-12,792
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	207		727
Net current-period other comprehensive income	207		727
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-12,065		-12,065
Cleco Power [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-6,256		-7,629
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Net current-period other comprehensive income	53		1,426
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-6,203		-6,203
Cleco Power [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Cleco Power [Member] | Interest Expense [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Cleco Power [Member] | Regulatory Asset [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			-31
Cleco Power [Member] | Regulatory Asset [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			($31)

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss YTD (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	($29,875)		($32,370)
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications			1,355
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	497		1,619
Net current-period other comprehensive income	550	815	3,045	2,364
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-29,325		-29,325
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-23,619		-24,741
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications			0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	497		1,619
Net current-period other comprehensive income	497		1,619
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-23,122		-23,122
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-6,256		-7,629
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications			1,355
Net current-period other comprehensive income	53		1,426
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-6,203		-6,203
Interest Expense [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Interest Expense [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Regulatory Asset [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			-31
Regulatory Asset [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			-31
Cleco Power [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-18,528		-20,421
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications			1,355
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	207		727
Net current-period other comprehensive income	260	607	2,153	1,698
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-18,268		-18,268
Cleco Power [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-12,272		-12,792
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications			0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	207		727
Net current-period other comprehensive income	207		727
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-12,065		-12,065
Cleco Power [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance	-6,256		-7,629
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications			1,355
Net current-period other comprehensive income	53		1,426
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance	-6,203		-6,203
Cleco Power [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Cleco Power [Member] | Interest Expense [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	53		102
Cleco Power [Member] | Regulatory Asset [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			-31
Cleco Power [Member] | Regulatory Asset [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax			($31)