| Cover Page | Nov. 23, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 23, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 1-15929 |
| Entity Registrant Name | PROGRESS ENERGY, INC. |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 56-2155481 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | NC |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 410 South Wilmington Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Raleigh |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 27601-1748 |
| City Area Code | 704 |
| Local Phone Number | 382-3853 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001094093 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
