Arq (ARQ) 10-K 19 Apr 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Apr. 14, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1,515,156
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		22,011,494
Entity Public Float			$ 207,838,774

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 9,265	$ 25,181	$ 37,890	$ 7,741
Receivables, net	8,361	16,594
Receivables, related parties, net	1,918	1,439
Restricted cash	728	2,527
Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	2,137	6,153
Prepaid expenses and other assets	2,306	2,535
Total current assets	24,715	54,429
Restricted cash, long-term	10,980	8,771
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,557 and $5,924, respectively	2,040	4,808
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	336	336
Cost method investment	2,776	2,776
Equity method investments	17,232	19,584
Other assets	2,696	2,995
Total Assets	60,775	93,699
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
Accounts payable	6,174	7,514
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	5,800	5,158
Current portion of notes payable, related parties	1,837	1,479
Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts	9,708	22,518
Short-term borrowings	12,676	0
Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation	6,502	3,749
Other current liabilities	6,198	6,739
Total current liabilities	48,895	47,157
Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties	13,512	14,431
Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term	13,797	20,273
Advance deposit, related party	2,980	6,524
Other long-term liabilities	6,569	6,011
Total Liabilities	$ 85,753	$ 94,396
Commitments and contingencies (Note 14)
Stockholders’ deficit:
Preferred stock: par value of $.001 and no par value per share, respectively, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock: par value of $.001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 21,943,872 and 21,853,263 shares issued and 21,809,164 and 21,643,342 shares outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively	22	22
Additional paid-in capital	116,029	110,169
Accumulated deficit	(141,029)	(110,888)
Total stockholders’ deficit	(24,978)	(697)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit	$ 60,775	$ 93,699

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ 4,557	$ 5,924
Preferred stock par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	21,943,872	21,853,263
Common stock, shares outstanding	21,809,164	21,643,342

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenues:
Equipment sales									$ 60,099	$ 12,044	$ 5,747
Consulting services									1,752	4,488	6,790
Chemicals and other									888	391	749
Total revenues	$ 13,202	$ 12,885	$ 14,895	$ 21,757	$ 3,693	$ 9,072	$ 3,175	$ 983	62,739	16,923	13,286
Operating expenses:
Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									45,433	9,277	9,459
Consulting services cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									1,518	2,203	3,827
Chemical and other cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									601	140	382
Payroll and benefits									23,589	20,767	16,228
Rent and occupancy									3,309	2,468	2,128
Legal and professional fees									16,604	14,430	4,534
General and administrative									6,104	6,066	4,101
Research and development, net									5,362	1,521	3,237
Depreciation and amortization									2,019	1,865	1,648
Total operating expenses									104,539	58,737	45,544
Operating loss	(7,135)	(9,989)	(17,778)	(6,898)	(15,545)	(10,279)	(8,420)	(7,570)	(41,800)	(41,814)	(32,258)
Other income (expense):
Earnings from equity method investments	3,788	(41)	4,860	314	20,693	5,603	9,791	6,625	8,921	42,712	15,502
Royalties, related party	2,876	3,273	2,299	2,194	2,154	2,275	849	1,132	10,642	6,410	2,505
Interest income									24	74	109
Interest expense									(8,402)	(5,725)	(1,338)
Other									494	26	(44)
Total other income (expense), net									11,679	43,497	16,734
Income (loss) before income tax expense	(3,039)	(8,610)	(12,384)	(6,088)	4,818	(3,586)	1,021	(570)	(30,121)	1,683	(15,524)
Income tax expense	(131)	44	63	44	141	113	29	13	20	296	463
Net income (loss)	$ (2,908)	$ (8,654)	$ (12,447)	$ (6,132)	$ 4,677	$ (3,699)	$ 992	$ (583)	$ (30,141)	$ 1,387	$ (15,987)
Earnings (loss) per common share (Note 1):
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,563	21,536	21,477	21,465	21,773	21,554	20,103
Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding (in shares)	21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,947	21,536	22,035	21,465	21,773	22,079	20,103

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Deficit - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Deficit
Beginning Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012		20,113,612
Beginning Balances at Dec. 31, 2012	$ (21,456)	$ 20	$ 74,812	$ (96,288)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Stock-based compensation (in shares)		70,420
Stock-based compensation	2,313	$ 1	2,312
Issuance of stock to 401(k) plan (in shares)		38,296
Issuance of stock to 401(k) plan	603		603
Issuance of stock upon exercise of options, net (in shares)		54,376
Issuance of stock upon exercise of options, net	354		354
Reclassification and settlement of equity awards	(991)		(991)
Issuance of stock to settle liabilities (in shares)		5,204
Issuance of stock to settle liabilities	81		81
Issuance of stock for cash (in shares)		1,380,000
Issuance of stock for cash	31,051	$ 1	31,050
Stock issuance costs	(2,135)		(2,135)
Net loss	(15,987)			(15,987)
Ending Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013		21,661,908
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2013	(6,167)	$ 22	106,086	(112,275)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Stock-based compensation (in shares)		40,729
Stock-based compensation	4,712		4,712
Issuance of stock to 401(k) plan (in shares)		5,250
Issuance of stock to 401(k) plan	127		127
Issuance of stock upon exercise of options, net (in shares)		260,126
Issuance of stock upon exercise of options, net	243		243
Repurchase of shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings (in shares)		(114,750)
Repurchase of shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings	(1,500)		(1,500)
Reclassification and settlement of equity awards	501		501
Net loss	1,387			1,387
Ending Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014		21,853,263
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	(697)	$ 22	110,169	(110,888)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Stock-based compensation (in shares)		127,867
Stock-based compensation	6,462		6,462
Clawback of equity awards (in shares)		(20,656)
Clawback of equity awards	(325)		(325)
Repurchase of shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings (in shares)		(16,602)
Repurchase of shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings	(277)		(277)
Net loss	(30,141)			(30,141)
Ending Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015		21,943,872
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2015	$ (24,978)	$ 22	$ 116,029	$ (141,029)

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)	$ (30,141)	$ 1,387	$ (15,987)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	2,019	1,865	1,648
Amortization of debt discount and debt issuance costs	987	100	0
Non-cash research and development expenses	0	0	1,075
Impairment of property, equipment and intangibles	2,087	355	277
Provision for bad debt expense and note receivable	633	500	10
Interest costs added to principal balance of notes payable	923	1,124	0
Consulting expense financed through note payable	0	1,600	0
Share-based compensation expense	7,204	4,712	2,312
Clawback of equity awards	(325)	0	0
Earnings from equity method investments	(8,921)	(42,712)	(15,502)
Other non-cash items, net	285	38	111
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquired businesses:
Receivables	8,361	(3,651)	(6,711)
Related party receivables	(479)	(809)	1,224
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(107)	(1,877)	361
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts	6,492	(56,606)	(19,313)
Restricted cash	1,690	(2,387)	0
Restricted cash, long-term	0	0	(4,860)
Other long-term assets	205	(47)	(49)
Accounts payable	(1,340)	2,328	2,225
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	(102)	686	1,655
Other current liabilities	(812)	(672)	5,918
Billings on uncompleted contracts	(15,186)	55,621	33,220
Advance deposit, related party	(3,544)	(2,135)	7,166
Other long-term liabilities	595	144	268
Settlement and royalty indemnification obligation	(3,722)	(4,622)	(5,245)
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment	5,019	2,509	5
Net cash used in operating activities	(28,179)	(42,549)	(10,192)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of investment securities	0	(105)	(105)
Maturity of investment securities	0	210	105
Purchase of investment securities, restricted	0	(3)	(3,427)
Maturity of investment securities, restricted	0	406	5,227
Increase in restricted cash	(2,100)	(1,243)	(2,807)
Acquisition of property and equipment	(507)	(1,563)	(2,135)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	942	26	1
Principal payments received on notes receivable, related party	0	0	500
Advance on note receivable	(500)	(500)	0
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired of zero	(2,124)	0	0
Purchase of cost method investment	0	(2,776)	0
Purchase of and contributions to equity method investee	(2,128)	(6,631)	0
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of cumulative earnings	8,651	43,584	13,813
Net cash provided by investing activities	2,234	31,405	11,172
Cash flows from financing activities
Short term borrowings	13,539	0	0
Repayments on short-term borrowings	(1,750)	0	0
Gross proceeds from issuance of common stock	0	0	31,050
Stock issuance and registration costs	0	0	(2,135)
Proceeds received upon exercise of stock options	0	243	354
Repurchase of shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings	(276)	(1,500)	0
Principal payments on note payable	(1,484)	(238)	0
Line of credit amendment fees	0	(70)	(100)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	10,029	(1,565)	29,169
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(15,916)	(12,709)	30,149
Cash and Cash Equivalents, beginning of period	25,181	37,890	7,741
Cash and Cash Equivalents, end of period	9,265	25,181	37,890
Supplemental disclosures of cash information:
Cash paid for interest	6,274	5,201	973
Cash paid for income taxes	29	566	9
Restricted stock award reclassification (equity to liability)	0	501	991
Issuance of common stock to settle liabilities	0	127	684
Acquisition of equity method investment through note payable	0	13,301	0
Acquisition of technology license through long-term payable	$ 0	$ 1,525	$ 0

Summary of Operations and Signi

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies Nature of Operations ADA-ES, Inc. (“ADA”), a Colorado corporation, was incorporated in 1997. Pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger ("Reorganization"), effective July 1, 2013, Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. (“ADES”), a Delaware company incorporated in 2011, replaced ADA as the publicly-held corporation and ADA became a wholly-owned subsidiary of ADES. Each outstanding share of ADA’s common stock automatically converted into one share of common stock of ADES and the shareholders of ADA became stockholders of ADES on a one -for-one basis, holding the same number of shares in and the same ownership percentage of ADES after the Reorganization as they held in and of ADA prior to the Reorganization. ADES’s Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation authorizes the issuance of 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value per share of $0.001 and 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value per share of $0.001 . ADES’s common stock became listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under “ADES”, ADA’s previous symbol, and ADA’s stock ceased trading on the NASDAQ Capital Market. As of March 30, 2015 , ADES's common stock was delisted from the NASDAQ Capital Markets and began trading on the OTC Pink® Marketplace - Limited Information Tier under the trading symbol "ADES". For further information on the reorganization, see Note 20 of the Consolidated Financial Statements. As this filing pertains to the year ended December 31, 2015 , the terms the “Company”, “we”, “us” and “our” means ADA for the periods through and including the period ended June 30, 2013 and ADES for the periods beginning after July 1, 2013, including their respective consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. As of December 31, 2015 ADES's wholly-owned subsidiaries included: • ADA • BCSI, LLC ("BCSI") • Advanced Clean Energy Solutions, LLC ("ACES") • ADEquity, LLC ("ADEquity") • ADA Environmental Solutions, LLC (“ADA LLC”) • ADA Intellectual Property, LLC (“ADA IP”) • ADA-RCM6, LLC (“ADA-RCM6”) • ADA Analytics, LLC • ADA Analytics Israel Ltd. (collectively with ADA Analytics, LLC, "ADA Analytics") None of ACES, ADEquity, ADA IP, ADA-RCM6 or ADA Analytics had operations prior to 2014. ADA LLC ceased operations in 2012 and ADA IP has had no operations. During 2015, the Company elected to cease the operations of ADA Analytics. The Company anticipates that ADA Analytics will be legally dissolved during 2016. In addition, the company terminated its manufacturing operations, conducted under BCSI, effective as of the end of the 2015. The Company anticipates that BCSI will eventually be legally dissolved upon the winding down of its remaining operations, commitments and obligations. However, the Company will continue to serve the Dry Sorbent Injection ("DSI") market, which BCSI previously served, through ADA. With the exceptions of ADA Analytics, and BCSI as a manufacturing of DSI systems, ADES and its subsidiaries have continued to conduct the business in substantially the same manner as conducted prior to the Reorganization. In addition, we are an investor in Clean Coal Solutions, LLC (“CCS”), Clean Coal Solutions Services, LLC ("CCSS") and RCM6, LLC ("RCM6"), whose performances significantly impact our financial position and results of operations. We account for these investments using the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2015 the Company holds equity interests of 42.50% , 50.00% , and 24.95% in CCS, CCSS, and RCM6, respectively. During March 2016, the Company sold its entire equity interest in RCM6. The Company is principally engaged in providing environmental and emissions control equipment, technologies and specialty chemicals to the coal-burning electric power generation industry. Although the Company has historically operated at a net loss, the Company generates substantial earnings and tax credits under Section 45 of the Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") ("IRC Section 45") from equity method investments and royalty payment streams related to its technologies utilized by its customers that results in enhanced combustion and reduced emissions of nitrogen oxide ("NO x ") and mercury from coal. The Company’s sales occur principally throughout the United States. Liquidity During the year ended December 31, 2015 the Company's working capital and cash balances continued to decline, due principally to continued losses. Such losses were driven primarily by poor operating performance related to Dry Sorbent Injection ("DSI") equipment, which is included within the Emissions Control segment as of December 31, 2015, substantial and continuing expenditures required to fund the restatement of certain prior period financial statements, including related litigation costs ("Restatement"), and a significant reduction in the receipt of cash distributions from CCS. This deterioration of working capital directly necessitated the securing of the loan transaction described in Note 9 ("Credit Agreement"). The Company expects that pressure on working capital will continue until such time as all Restatement activities are completed, including resolution of the SEC inquiry, and the conclusion of the private litigation, both of which are described in Note 14 . The Company's ability to generate sufficient cash flow required to meet ongoing operational needs and to meet obligations, including the repayment of the loan under the Credit Agreement, depends upon several factors, including executing on the Company's contracts and initiatives, receiving royalty payments from CCS and distributions from CCS and CCSS, and our ability to maintain a significant share of the market and increase operational efficiencies for emissions control equipment, chemicals and services. Increased distributions from CCS will likely be dependent upon the securing of additional tax equity investors for those CCS facilities that are currently not operating, or operating as retained Refined Coal ("RC") facilities. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow, we may be unable to meet our operational needs and/or repay our loan when due. Should this be the case, we will seek to refinance the loan or obtain alternative financing. If we are unable to refinance the loan or obtain alternative financing, our lenders would be entitled to take possession of the collateral securing the indebtedness, which includes substantially all of our assets, to the extent permitted by the Credit Agreement and applicable law. Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements include accounts of wholly owned subsidiaries. All investments in partially owned entities for which the Company has greater-than-20% ownership are accounted for using the equity method based on the legal form of the Company's ownership percentage and the applicable ownership percentage of the entity and are included in the Equity method investments line item in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets . In situations where an investment in a partially owned entity has been determined to be a variable interest entity ("VIE") and the Company is deemed to be the primary beneficiary in accordance with the variable interest model of consolidation, the Company will consolidate the investment into its financial statements. No VIEs were consolidated by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , there were no greater-than-50%-owned affiliates whose financial statements were not consolidated. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include bank deposits and other highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. Restricted Cash Restricted cash primarily consists of funds withheld to provide collateral support for certain Letters of Credit that had been issued to i) customers related to certain contractual performance and payment guarantees, and ii) certain settlement parties to provide security for continuing royalty indemnification payments related to the settlement of certain litigation. Upon covenant non-compliance in 2014, the Company was required to secure such letters of credit with 100% cash collateral. Receivables and Credit Policies Accounts receivable balances are uncollateralized customer obligations due under normal trade terms requiring payment typically within 30 - 45 days from the invoice date and are stated net of allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company records allowances for doubtful accounts when it is probable that the accounts receivable balances will not be collected. The following tables show the receivables balances: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Receivables $ 8,518 $ 16,609 Less allowance for doubtful accounts (157 ) (15 ) Total $ 8,361 $ 16,594 As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Receivables, related parties $ 1,918 $ 1,439 Total $ 1,918 $ 1,439 During the years ended December 31, 2015 the Company recognized $0.1 million of bad debt expense related to the write-off of specific accounts whose ultimate collection was in doubt. The Company did not recognize any bad debt expense for the years ended December 31, 2014 or 2013 . Bad debt expense is included within the General and administrative line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Notes receivable are reported at their outstanding principal balances, adjusted for any amounts determined to be uncollectible. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company recorded impairment charges related to a Note Receivable of $0.5 million , $0.5 million and zero , respectively, related to the write-off of a specific account whose ultimate collection was in doubt. Interest income is accrued and credited to income based on the unpaid principal balance outstanding. The accrual of interest is discontinued when substantial doubt exists about the ability to collect principal and interest based upon the contractual terms. Notes receivable are included within the Other assets line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . Additional details regarding Note receivable balances are included in Note 11 . Inventory Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market and consist principally of parts, components and materials for activated carbon injection ("ACI") and dry sorbent injection ("DSI") projects. The cost of inventory is determined using the first-in-first-out ("FIFO") method. Inventories are included within the Other assets line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . For the years ending December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the balance of inventory was comprised of materials and supplies and finished goods of $0.2 million and $0.6 million , respectively. Other Intangible Assets Other Intangible assets consist of patents and licensed technology and are included in the Other assets line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . During 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company did not recognize any intangible asset impairment charges. The Company has developed technologies resulting in patents being granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. All research and development costs associated with the technology development are expensed as incurred. Legal costs associated with securing the patent are capitalized and amortized over the legal or useful life beginning on the patent filing date. Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 (in thousands, except years) Weighted-Average Amortization Period (in years) Initial Cost Net of Accumulated Amortization Initial Cost Net of Accumulated Amortization Patents 20 $ 742 $ 581 $ 635 $ 523 Licensed technology 10 1,525 1,360 1,525 1,512 Total 12.9 $ 2,267 $ 1,941 $ 2,160 $ 2,035 Included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations is amortization expense of $0.4 million , zero and zero for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The estimated future amortization expense for existing intangible assets as of December 31, 2015 is expected to be $0.2 million for each of the five succeeding fiscal years. Investment Securities Investment securities represent certificates of deposits with original maturities greater than 90 days. Investment securities pledged as security for letters of credit, in the same amount as the investments, are classified as restricted in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and are carried at fair value. Investments in partially-owned subsidiaries for which the Company has less-than-20% ownership are accounted for using the cost method. Cost method investments are evaluated for impairment upon an indicator of impairment such as an event or change in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment. If no such events or changes in circumstances have occurred, the fair value is estimated only if practicable to do so. Equity Method of Accounting The investments in entities in which the Company does not have a controlling interest (financial or operating), but where it has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies, are accounted for using equity-method accounting. Whether or not the Company exercises significant influence with respect to an investee depends on an evaluation of several factors including, among others, representation on the investee company’s board of directors and ownership level. Under the equity method of accounting, an investee company’s accounts are not reflected within the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations ; however, the Company’s share of the earnings or losses of the investee company is reflected in the Earnings from equity method investments line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . The Company’s carrying value in an equity method investee company is reflected in the Equity method investments line in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . When the Company receives distributions in excess of the carrying value of the investment and the Company has not guaranteed any obligations of the investee, nor is it required to provide additional funding to the investee, the Company recognizes such excess distributions as equity method earnings in the period the distributions occur. When the investee subsequently reports income, the Company does not record its share of such income until it equals the amount of distributions in excess of carrying value that were previously recognized in income. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company had no such guarantees or requirements to provide additional funding. Additionally, when the Company's carrying value in an equity method investment is zero and the Company has not guaranteed any obligations of the investee, nor is it required to provide additional funding to the investee, the Company will not recognize its share of any reported losses by the investee until future earnings are generated to offset previously unrecognized losses. As a result, equity income or loss reported on the Company's income statement for certain equity method investment entities may differ from a mathematical calculation of net income or loss attributable to our equity interest based upon the factor of our equity interest and the net income or loss attributable to equity owners as shown on investee companies' income statements. Likewise, distributions from equity method investees are reported on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as “return on investment” within Operating cash flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero; thereafter, such distributions are reported as “distributions in excess of cumulative earnings” within Investing cash flows. See Note 7 for additional information regarding the Company's equity method investments. Royalties, Related Party The Company realizes royalties from licensing its M-45 TM and M-45-PC TM emission control technologies to CCS. Royalties are earned based upon (i) a percentage of the per-ton, pre-tax margin of Refined Coal ("RC") produced with the M-45 License that produces a valid and verifiable Section 45 Tax Credit, net of certain allocable operating expenses, (ii) a percentage of the Section 45 tax credits claimed, and not invested by a licensee, sublicensee, or licensee affiliate using the M-45 License, net of certain allocable operating expenses and (iii) a percentage of the revenue, net of all direct expenses, received by CCS as a direct result of CCS's exercise of the M-45 License. Property and Equipment Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and includes leasehold improvements. Depreciation on assets is computed using the straight-line method over the lesser of the estimated useful lives of the related assets or the lease term (ranging from 2 to 10 years). Maintenance and repairs which do not extend the useful life of the respective asset are charged to Operating expenses as incurred. When assets are retired, or otherwise disposed of, the property accounts are relieved of costs and accumulated depreciation and any resulting gain or loss is credited or charged to income. The Company performs an evaluation of the recoverability of the carrying value of its long-lived assets to determine if facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of assets may be impaired and if any adjustment is warranted. There were no indicators of impairment during the year ended December 31, 2013 . The Company recognized impairment charges on property and equipment related to the Company's BCSI subsidiary as projected future cash flows from operations related to the property and equipment did not support the carrying value recorded by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 of $0.3 million $0.4 million and $0.1 million , respectively. These impairment charge are included within the General and administrative line item in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations . Revenue Recognition The Company recognizes revenue when: (i) persuasive evidence of a customer arrangement exists; (ii) the price is fixed or determinable; (iii) collectability is reasonable assured; and (iv) product delivery has occurred or services have been rendered and it is probable that performance guarantees, if any, will be met. Equipment sales The Company enters into contracts that require, over a period of months, the design and construction of emissions control systems ("extended equipment contracts"). Revenue from such extended equipment contracts is recorded using the percentage of completion cost to cost method based on costs incurred to date compared with total estimated contract costs. However, if the Company does not have sufficient information to estimate either costs incurred or total estimated costs for extended equipment contracts, the completed contract method is used. Under the completed contract method, revenues and costs from extended equipment contracts are deferred and recognized when contract obligations are substantially complete. The Company defines substantially complete as delivery of equipment and start-up at the customer site or, as applicable to DSI systems, the completion of any major warranty service period. Such costs are accumulated in the Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts or Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts line items in the Consolidated Balance Sheets , and typically include direct materials, direct labor and subcontractor costs, and indirect costs related to contract performance, such as indirect labor, supplies, tools and repairs. For each of the years ended 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company did not have sufficient information to measure ongoing performance for its extended equipment contracts. Accordingly, the completed contract method of revenue recognition has been used for each of these years and revenues and costs are deferred until the equipment is placed into service and contract obligations are substantially complete. When multiple contracts exist with a single counterparty, the Company evaluates revenue recognition on a contract-by-contract basis. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts are recognized when it has been determined that a loss is probable. The Company also enters into other non-extended equipment contracts for which the Company recognizes revenues on time and material contracts as services to build equipment systems are performed or as equipment is delivered. Consulting services The Company recognizes revenue on time and material contracts as services are performed. Chemicals and other sales Revenues for direct sales of chemicals and other ancillary products not provided in the performance of construction of emissions control systems (extended equipment sales) are recognized at the date of delivery to, and acceptance by the customer. Cost of Revenues Costs of revenues include all labor, fringe benefits, subcontract labor, chemical and coal costs, materials, equipment, supplies, travel costs and any other costs and expenses directly related to the Company’s production of revenue. The Company records estimated contract losses, if any, in the period they are determined. Additionally, warranty costs for ACI equipment systems are estimated based on historical experience and are recorded as a percentage of revenue when the equipment is substantially complete. Warranty costs, comprised of the cost of replacement materials and direct labor, are included within the Equipment sales cost of revenue line of the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Warranty costs for DSI equipment systems cannot be estimated due to a lack of historical experience manufacturing DSI systems and the resulting claims history, if any, needed to determine an appropriate warranty amount. Therefore, revenue recognition has been deferred until the end of the warranty period, generally 12 to 24 months following substantial completion. As warranty claims are incurred, such costs are deferred within the Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets , until such time that revenue and cost of revenues are recognized. Subsequent to revenue having been recognized, warranty claims are included within the Other long-term liabilities line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and within Cost of revenues line of the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Additional information related to warranty obligations is included in Note 11 . The changes in the carrying amount of the Company’s warranty obligations, which do not include amounts for DSI systems as revenues are deferred until the end of the warranty period, are as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Beginning balance $ 152 $ 62 Warranties accrued, net 1,337 90 Warranty claims (292 ) — Ending balance $ 1,197 $ 152 In some cases, a letter of credit is obtained and held to cover the period of the warranty that could be used to satisfy the obligation. Payroll and Benefits Payroll and benefits costs include direct payroll, personnel related fringe benefits, sales and administrative staff labor costs and stock compensation expense. Payroll and benefits costs exclude direct labor included in Costs of revenues. Rent and Occupancy Rent and occupancy costs include rent, insurance, and other occupancy-related expenses. Legal and Professional Legal and professional costs include external legal, audit and consulting expenses. General and Administrative General and administrative costs include director fees and expenses, bad debt expense, impairments and other general costs of conducting business. Research and Development Costs Research and development costs are charged to operations in the period incurred. The Company has entered into development and cost-sharing contracts with the Department of Energy (the "DOE"). These contracts are best-effort-basis contracts and the Company generally includes industry cost-share partners to offset the costs incurred that are anticipated to be in excess of funded amounts from the DOE. The Company accounts for these contracts with the DOE and industry cost-share partners in accordance with accounting guidance whereby the Company recognizes amounts funded by the DOE under research-and-development-cost-sharing arrangements as an offset to the Company's aggregate research and development expense with the Research and development, net line in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Asset Retirement Obligations The Company's asset retirement obligation, or ARO liability consists of estimated costs to remove equipment and reclaim the land associated with one research and development project. The Company estimates its ARO liability for final reclamation based upon bids obtained from independent third parties and other exit alternatives, escalation for inflation, and then discounted at a credit-adjusted risk-free rate. Changes in estimates could occur due to revisions of estimated costs and changes in timing and performance of the reclamation activities. The ARO liability is included within the Other long-term liabilities line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and discussed further in Note 11 . Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on the basis of the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company recognizes deferred tax assets to the extent that it believes these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby (1) the Company determines whether it is more-likely-than-not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position and (2) for those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the Company recognizes the amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. The Company records interest expense due to the Company's share of CCS equity method earnings for RC facility leases which are treated as installment sales for tax purposes. IRS section 453A requires taxpayers using the installment method to pay an interest charge on the portion of the tax liability that was deferred under the installment method. The Company recognizes IRS section 453A interest ("453A interest") and other interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the Interest expense line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Stock-Based Compensation Stock-based compensation expense is measured at the grant date and expensed on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. An estimate of forfeitures is applied when calculating compensation expense. These costs are recorded in the Payroll and benefits line item in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations . Earnings (Loss) Per Share The Company computes earnings (loss) per share in accordance with FASB ASC 260-10. Under this guidance, unvested restricted stock awards ("RSA's") that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are deemed to be participating securities and, therefore, are included in computing basic earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. The two-class method determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating securities according to dividends or dividend equivalents and their respective participation rights in undistributed earnings (losses). The Company did not declare any cash dividends during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 or 2013 . Under the two-class method, net income (loss) for the period is allocated between common stockholders and the holders of the participating securities, in this case, the weighted-average number of unvested restricted stock awards outstanding during the period. The allocated, undistributed income (loss) for the period is then divided by the weighted-average number of common shares and participating securities outstanding during the period to arrive at basic earnings (loss) per common share or participating security for the period, respectively. Because the Company did not declare any dividends during the periods presented, and because the unvested RSA's possess substantially the same rights to undistributed earnings as common shares outstanding, there is no difference between the calculated basic earnings (loss) per share for common shares and participating securities. Accordingly, and pursuant to generally accepted accounting standards, the Company has elected not to separately present basic or diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to participating securities on its Consolidated Statements of Operations. Diluted earnings (loss) per share takes into consideration shares of common stock and unvested RSA's outstanding (computed under basic earnings (loss) per share) and potentially dilutive shares of common stock. Potentially dilutive shares consist of vested, in-the-money outstanding options and contingent PSU's ("Potential dilutive shares"). When there is a loss from continuing operations, all potentially dilutive shares become anti-dilutive and are thus excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share. Each PSU represents a contingent right to receive shares of the Company’s common stock, that may range from zero to two times the number of PSU's granted on the award date, depending upon the price performance of the Company's common stock as measured against a general index and a specific peer group index over requisite performance periods. The number of potentially dilutive shares related to PSU's is based on the number of shares, if any, that would be issuable at the end of the respective reporting period, assuming that the end of the reporting period was the end of the contingency period applicable to such PSU's. See Note 13 for additional information related to PSU's. No Potential Dilutive Shares were included in the calculations for the years ended December 31, 2015 or 2013 , as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive due to the Company’s net loss per share for those periods. On March 14, 2014, the Company completed a two-for-one stock split of the Company’s common stock, which was effected in the form of a common stock dividend. All periods reflect the per-share impact of the two -for-one stock split. The following table sets forth the calculations of basic and diluted earnings (losses) per common share: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 2014 2013 Net income (loss) $ (30,141 ) $ 1,387 $ (15,987 ) Less: Undistributed income (loss) allocated to participating securities (275 ) 18 (220 ) Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders $ (29,866 ) $ 1,369 $ (15,767 ) Basic weighted-average number of common shares outstanding 21,773 21,554 20,103 Add: dilutive effect of equity instruments — 525 — Diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding 21,773 22,079 20,103 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ (1.37 ) $ 0.06 $ (0.78 ) Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ (1.37 ) $ 0.06 $ (0.78 ) The table below presents the number of shares that were excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive to the calculation: Years Ended December 31, (share data in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Stock options 10 — 249 Restricted stock awards 163 — 250 Performance share units 182 — 33 Total shares excluded from diluted shares outstanding 355 — 532 Use of Estimates The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires

Restructuring

Restructuring	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring	Restructuring During the year ended December 31, 2015 , the Company recorded restructuring charges in connection with a reduction in force, the departure of executive officers and management's further alignment of the business with strategic objectives which will impact all segments of the Company's business. These charges related to severance arrangements with departing employees and executives, including non-cash charges related to the acceleration of vesting of certain stock awards, as well as to the closing of the BCSI facilities and the termination of the operations of a foreign subsidiary that was involved in the development of certain data analytics and monitoring products. Furthermore, during the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company closed its fabrication facility in McKeesport, Pennsylvania and recorded restructuring charges related thereto. The Company recorded restructuring charges during 2014 primarily related to a reduction in force, the departure of executive officers and management's alignment of the business with strategic objectives. These charges were related to severance agreements with departing employees and executives, including non-cash charges related to the acceleration of vesting of certain stock awards. Restructuring activity during 2013 related to one employee within the All Other and Corporate category. A summary of the net pretax charges, incurred by segment is as follows: Pretax Charge (in thousands, except employee data) Approximate Number of Employees Refined Coal Emissions Control All Other and Corporate Total Year ended December 31, 2015 Restructuring charges 162 — 5,108 5,264 10,372 Changes in estimates — (10 ) (2 ) (12 ) Total pretax charge, net of reversals — 5,098 5,262 10,360 Year ended December 31, 2014 Restructuring charges 29 — 1,294 2,209 3,503 Total pretax charge, net of reversals — 1,294 2,209 3,503 Year ended December 31, 2013 Restructuring charges 1 — — 60 60 Total pretax charge, net of reversals — — 60 60 The following table summarizes the Company's utilization of restructuring accruals for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 : (in thousands) Employee Severance Business Operations Closure Beginning accrual as of January 1, 2013 $ — $ — Expense provision (1) 60 — Cash payments and other (1) (31 ) — Change in estimates — — Accrual as of December 31, 2013 29 — Expense provision (1) 3,503 — Cash payments and other (1) (1,842 ) — Change in estimates — — Accrual as of December 31, 2014 1,690 — Expense provision (1) 8,498 2,650 Cash payments and other (1) (7,595 ) (1,873 ) Change in estimates (12 ) — Accrual as of December 31, 2015 $ 2,581 $ 777 (1) Included within the Expense provision and Cash payments and other line items in the above table is equity based compensation of $3.4 million , $1.0 million and zero for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively, resulting from the accelerated vesting of modified equity-based compensation awards for certain terminated employees. Additionally, as discussed in Note 8 , due to restructuring activities the Company fully impaired the carrying value of certain assets, thereby recognizing net impairment expense in the amount of $1.9 million during the third quarter of 2015. Restructuring accruals related to personnel are included within the Accrued payroll and related liabilities line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . Restructuring expenses related to personnel are included within the Payroll and benefits and Research and development, net line items in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Restructuring accruals related to facilities are included within the Other current liabilities line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . Restructuring expenses related to facilities are included within the Rent and occupancy line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations .

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment The carrying basis and accumulated depreciation of property and equipment at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are: Life in Years As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Machinery and equipment 3-10 $ 3,498 $ 7,194 Leasehold improvements 3-7 2,172 2,198 Furniture and fixtures 3-7 927 1,340 6,597 10,732 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (4,557 ) (5,924 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 2,040 $ 4,808 Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $1.7 million , $1.8 million and $1.6 million , respectively. As discussed in Note 2 , as part of a broader strategic restructuring of the Company's business, the Company’s management approved an action to wind down the manufacturing operations of BCSI, LLC, in order to focus the Company's efforts within the DSI market on engineering. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company classified certain assets used in the BCSI, LLC manufacturing operations as held for sale. In doing so, the Company recognized impairment expense of approximately $0.3 million to reduce the carrying value of the assets to their estimated sales value, less estimated costs to sell. The property and equipment was subsequently sold at auction. Proceeds from the sale of the impaired assets totaled approximately $0.6 million . No gain or loss was recognized on the sale of the property and equipment. Also during the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company sold certain property and equipment having a net book value of approximately $60 thousand . Proceeds from the sale totaled approximately $0.3 million , which resulted in the recognition of a gain on the sale of approximately $0.2 million . The Company also closed its fabrication facility in McKeesport, Pennsylvania during the fourth quarter of 2015 and recognized $0.8 million of expense related to the abandonment of leased facilities.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments	Investments The Company had investment securities related to certificates of deposit in the amount of $0.3 million as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 . No unrealized gains or losses were recorded as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 related to these investment securities. The Company also had a cost method investment in the amount of $2.8 million as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 . No unrealized gains or losses were recorded as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 related to this investment security. The Company's investment securities have maturities ranging from one to five years as of December 31, 2015 . In November 2014, the Company acquired an 8% ownership interest in the common stock of Highview Enterprises Limited ("Highview"), a London, England based developmental stage company specializing in power storage, for $2.8 million in cash. The Company evaluated the investment and determined that it should account for the investment under the cost method. This investment is evaluated for impairment upon an indicator of impairment such as an event or change in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment. As of December 31, 2015 , there were no indicators of impairment. When there are no indicators of impairment present, the Company estimates the fair value for the Highview investment only if it is practical to do so. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company estimated that the fair value of the cost method investment approximated the November 2014 purchase price due to the proximity of the purchase date to December 31, 2015 and no indicators of impairment were identified.

Costs and Billings on Uncomplet

Costs and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Costs and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts [Abstract]
Costs and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts	Costs and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts represent the gross costs as of the balance sheet dates. Billings on uncompleted contracts represent the gross billings as of the balance sheet dates. Costs and billings are netted on an individual contract basis, with contracts in a net cost position aggregated and presented as Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet, and contracts in a net billing position aggregated and presented as Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. The below table shows the components of these items. As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts (gross) $ 72,581 $ 79,108 Billings on uncompleted contracts (gross) (80,152 ) (95,473 ) $ (7,571 ) $ (16,365 ) Included in the accompanying balance sheets under the following captions (1) : Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts $ 2,137 $ 6,153 Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts (9,708 ) (22,518 ) $ (7,571 ) $ (16,365 ) (1) Amounts presented after netting of costs and billings on an individual contract basis. When it becomes apparent that a contract will ultimately be completed at a loss, the Company estimates such loss and accrues the loss as a loss contract accrual in the period that the loss determination becomes apparent. Loss contract accruals of $0.8 million and $2.9 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, are included in Other current liabilities line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company recorded loss contract provisions of $0.3 million , $0.3 million and $4.8 million , respectively. Loss contract provisions are included within the Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations .

Research and Development and Go

Research and Development and Government and Industry Funded Contracts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Government and Industry Funded Contracts [Abstract]
Research and Development and Government and Industry Funded Contracts	Research and Development and Government and Industry Funded Contracts The Company has performed research and development activities related to emerging technologies, such as those aimed at the separation, capture and control of CO 2 emissions related to power generation, oil & gas production technologies and energy storage applications through internal funds, and contracts supported by the DOE and industry participants. The contracts with the DOE can take the form of grants or cooperative agreements and are considered financial assistance awards. The deliverables required by the DOE agreements include various technical and financial reports that the Company submits on a prescribed schedule. The agreements require the Company to perform the negotiated scope of work in agreed phases, which includes testing and demonstration of technologies. The Company has participated in several contracts awarded by the DOE. The Company typically invoices the DOE and industry cost-share partners monthly for labor and expenditures plus estimated overhead factors, less any cost share amounts. The contracts under which the Company has performed are subject to audit and future appropriation of funds by Congress. The Company has not experienced any material adverse adjustments as a result of government audits. However, the government audits for years ended 2010 through 2015 have not yet been finalized. The following table shows the impact to Research and development expense amounts recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Operations: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Research and development expense $ 6,737 $ 3,554 $ 13,054 Less: DOE funding 1,375 1,756 9,400 Industry cost-share funding — 277 417 Net research and development expense $ 5,362 $ 1,521 $ 3,237 Included within the above research and development expenses during 2015 is net impairment expense of $1.9 million for the entire carrying value of its ADA Analytics assets, as discussed in Note 2 and Note 8 .

Equity Method Investments

Equity Method Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments	Equity Method Investments Clean Coal Solutions, LLC As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company’s ownership in CCS was 42.5% . CCS supplies technology, equipment and technical services to cyclone-fired and other boiler users, but CCS's primary purpose is to put into operation facilities that produce Refined Coal ("RC") that qualifies for tax credits available under Section 45 of the Internal Revenue Code ("Section 45 tax credits"). NexGen Refined Coal, LLC ("NexGen") and GSFS Investments I Corp. (“GSFS”), an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., also own 42.5% and 15.0% , respectively. GSFS owns Class B units which provide certain preferences over ADA and NexGen as to liquidation and profit distribution, including a guaranteed 15% annual return on GSFS unrecovered investment balance, which is calculated as the original GSFS investment, plus a 15% annual return thereon, less any distributions, including the allocation of Section 45 tax credits. Additionally, on the 10 year anniversary of the date the last RC facility owned by CCS or one of its subsidiaries is placed into service, but no later than December 31, 2021, if the GSFS's unrecovered investment balance has not been reduced to zero, GSFS may require CCS to redeem its Class B units for an amount equal to the then unrecovered investment balance, payable within 180 days of the notice of redemption. GSFS has no further capital call requirements and does not have a voting interest but does have approval rights over certain corporate transactions. However, the Class B units do not have voting rights and ADA and NexGen each maintain a 50% voting interest in CCS. CCS had been determined to be a VIE, however, the Company does not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and has therefore accounted for the investment under the equity method of accounting. The Company determined the voting partners of CCS have identical voting rights, equity control interests and board control interests, and therefore, concluded that the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance were shared. The following tables summarize the assets, liabilities and results of operations of CCS: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Current assets $ 41,099 $ 28,701 Non-current assets $ 90,509 $ 52,983 Current liabilities $ 60,987 $ 70,927 Non-current liabilities $ 9,434 $ 22,737 Redeemable Class B equity $ 30,449 $ 45,522 Members deficit attributable to Class A members $ 25,175 $ (63,027 ) Noncontrolling interests $ 5,563 $ 5,525 Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross margin $ 108,416 $ 89,099 $ 50,941 Operating expenses 23,405 21,502 17,462 Income from operations 85,011 67,597 33,479 Other expenses (2,203 ) (1,830 ) (527 ) Redeemable Class B preferred return (6,157 ) (8,707 ) (10,189 ) Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 10,675 11,023 — Net income available to Class A members $ 87,326 $ 68,083 $ 22,763 ADES equity earnings from CCS $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813 As shown above, the Company reported earnings from its equity investment in CCS of $8.7 million , $43.6 million and $13.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The difference between the Company's proportionate share of CCS's net income (at its equity interest of 42.5% ) as presented in the table below, and the Company's earnings from its CCS equity method investment as reported on its Consolidated Statements of Operations relates to the Company receiving cumulative and non-refundable distributions in excess of its cumulative, proportionate share of CCS's historical net income ("excess distributions"), thereby reducing the carrying value of the Company's equity investment in CCS to zero. In future periods, the Company will continue to report excess distributions as its earnings from CCS until such a time as when its cumulative, proportionate share of CCS's net income equals or exceeds the amount of its cumulative, non-refundable distributions. Thereafter, the Company will recognize its proportionate share of CCS's net income, unless future excess distributions occur, in which case the excess distributions would be recognized as the earnings from CCS. As shown in the table below, the Company’s carrying value in CCS has been reduced to zero in all periods presented, as cumulative, non-refundable cash distributions have exceeded the Company's cumulative, proportionate share of earnings in CCS net income. Therefore, in each of the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 , the Company has reported its non-refundable distributions as its earnings from CCS in its Consolidated Statements of Operations. In the Company's Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, distributions are reported as a return on the Company's equity investment within the operating cash flows section of the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero; thereafter, such distributions are reported as “distributions in excess of cumulative earnings” within Investing cash flows. The following table shows the Company's investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions in excess of the investment balance for the years ended December 31, 2013 through December 31, 2015 ( in thousands ). Description Date(s) Investment balance ADES equity earnings (loss) Cash distributions Memo Account: Cash distributions and equity loss in (excess) of investment balance Beginning balance 12/31/2012 $ — $ — $ — $ (8,003 ) ADES proportionate share of income from CCS (1) 2013 activity 8,910 8,910 — — Increase of equity loss in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions) 2013 activity (8,003 ) (8,003 ) — 8,003 Current year cash distributions from CCS 2013 activity (13,813 ) — 13,813 — Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance 2013 activity 12,906 12,906 — (12,906 ) Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions 12/31/2013 $ — $ 13,813 $ 13,813 $ (12,906 ) ADES proportionate share of income from CCS (1) 2014 activity $ 26,613 $ 26,613 $ — $ — Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions) 2014 activity (12,906 ) (12,906 ) — 12,906 Current year cash distributions from CCS 2014 activity (43,584 ) — 43,584 — Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance 2014 activity 29,877 29,877 — (29,877 ) Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions 12/31/2014 $ — $ 43,584 $ 43,584 $ (29,877 ) ADES proportionate share of income from CCS (1) 2015 activity $ 35,265 $ 35,265 $ — $ — Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions) 2015 activity (29,877 ) (29,877 ) — 29,877 Current year cash distributions from CCS 2015 activity (8,651 ) — 8,651 — Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance 2015 activity 3,263 3,263 — (3,263 ) Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions 12/31/2015 $ — $ 8,651 $ 8,651 $ (3,263 ) (1) The amounts of the Company's 42.5% proportionate share of net income as shown in the table above differ from mathematical calculations of the Company’s 42.5% equity interest in CCS multiplied by the amounts of Net Income available to Class A members as shown in the table above of CCS results of operations due to adjustments related to the Redeemable Class B preferred return and the elimination of CCS earnings attributable to RCM6, of which the Company owned 24.95% during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company's future proportionate share of CCS' net income must exceed approximately $3.3 million before the Company can recognize any earnings from CCS, unless future, non-refundable cash distributions occur, in which event such distributions would be recognized as earnings from CCS in the Company's consolidated statement of operations. Additional information related to CCS pursuant to Regulation S-X Rule 3-09 is included within Item 15 of this Form 10-K. Clean Coal Solutions Services, LLC In 2010, the Company, together with NexGen, formed CCSS for the purpose of operating the RC facilities. The Company has determined that CCSS is not a VIE and has evaluated the consolidation analysis under the Voting Interest Model. The Company has a 50% voting and economic interest in CCSS, which is equivalent to the voting and economic interest of NexGen. Therefore, as the Company does not have greater than 50% of the outstanding voting interests, either directly or indirectly, it has accounted for the investment under the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company’s ownership in CCSS was 50% . The Company’s investment in CCSS as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $4.0 million and $4.1 million , respectively. The following tables summarize the assets, liabilities and results of operations of CCSS: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Current assets $ 186,959 $ 215,944 Non-current assets $ 3,704 $ 12,623 Current liabilities $ 92,675 $ 127,858 Non-current liabilities $ 1,366 $ 1,214 Equity $ 7,936 $ 8,298 Noncontrolling interests $ 88,686 $ 91,197 Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross margin (loss) $ (42,496 ) $ (22,168 ) $ (11,055 ) Operating expenses 161,456 102,757 63,247 Loss from operations (203,952 ) (124,925 ) (74,302 ) Other expenses (118 ) (62 ) (134 ) Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 213,746 132,237 77,814 Net income $ 9,676 $ 7,250 $ 3,378 ADES equity earnings from CCSS $ 4,838 $ 3,625 $ 1,689 Included within the Consolidated Statement of Operations of CCSS during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 were losses related to VIE entities that are consolidated with CCSS of $213.7 million , $132.2 million and $77.8 million , respectively. These losses do not impact the Company's equity earnings from CCSS as 100% of those losses are attributable to a noncontrolling interest, and eliminated in the calculations of CCSS' net income attributable to our interest. CCSS did not meet the significant subsidiary test provided in Regulations S-X Rule 1-02 (w) in that the Company's equity earnings for the year ended December 31, 2015 or the year ended December 31, 2013 did not exceeded 20% of the Company's consolidated income from continuing operations before income taxes. However, CCSS did meet the significant subsidiary test for the year ended December 31, 2014 and therefore additional information related to CCSS pursuant to Regulation S-X Rule 3-09 is included within Item 15 of this Form 10-K. RCM6, LLC On February 10, 2014, the Company purchased a 24.95% membership interest in RCM6, LLC ("RCM6"), which owns and operates a single RC facility that produces RC that qualifies for Section 45 tax credits, from CCS through an up-front payment of $2.4 million and an initial note payable to CCS of $13.3 million , payable over seven years. Due to the payment terms of the note purchase agreement, the note payable periodically adds interest to the note payable balance and as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , was $14.2 million . In addition to the up front and note payments, the Company is also subject to quarterly capital calls and variable payments based upon differences in originally forecasted RC production as of the purchase date and actual quarterly production. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company paid aggregate capital calls and variable payments totaling $2.4 million and $4.2 million , respectively. RCM6 has been determined to be a VIE; however, the Company does not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the variable interest entity’s economic performance and has therefore accounted for the investment under the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company’s ownership in RCM6 was 24.95% . The Company’s investment in RCM6 as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $13.3 million and $15.4 million , respectively. The following tables summarize the assets, liabilities and results of operations of RCM6: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Current assets $ 12,240 $ 11,566 Non-current assets $ 2,472 $ 2,608 Current liabilities $ 1,489 $ 1,534 Non-current liabilities $ 7,649 $ 7,105 Equity $ 5,574 $ 5,535 Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Gross margin (loss) $ (7,877 ) $ (8,257 ) Operating expenses 2,178 2,123 Loss from operations (10,055 ) (10,380 ) Other expenses (641 ) (666 ) Net loss $ (10,696 ) $ (11,046 ) ADES equity loss from RCM6 $ (4,568 ) $ (4,497 ) The purchase of RCM6 resulted in the Company recording a basis difference related to property, plant and equipment and identifiable intangible assets. The amount by which the total of the Company's investment in RCM6 exceeded is proportionate share of the investee's net assets, recorded within the Equity method investments line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 is $11.9 million . The difference between the Company's proportionate share of RCM6's net loss and the Company's equity losses noted above relates to this depreciation and amortization. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company decreased its equity method earnings in RCM6 by $1.9 million and $1.7 million , respectively, due to the basis difference. As further discussed in Note 22 , during March 2016, the Company sold its entire ownership interest in RCM6 to a third party who already owned a portion of RCM6. Additional information related to RCM6 pursuant to Regulation S-X Rule 3-09 is included within Item 15 of this Form 10-K. The following table details the carrying value of the Company's respective equity method investments included within the Equity method investments line item on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and indicates the Company's maximum exposure to loss: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Equity method investment in CCS $ — $ — Equity method investment in CCSS 3,968 4,149 Equity method investment in RCM6 13,264 15,435 Total equity method investments $ 17,232 $ 19,584 The Company evaluates the investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the investment might not be recoverable. No impairments were recorded during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The following table details the components of the Company's respective earnings or loss from equity method investments included within the Earnings from equity method investments line item on the Consolidated Statements of Operations : Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Earnings from CCS $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813 Earnings from CCSS 4,838 3,625 1,689 Loss from RCM6 (4,568 ) (4,497 ) — Earnings from equity method investments $ 8,921 $ 42,712 $ 15,502 The following table details the components of additional cash investments related to the Company's respective equity method investments included within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows : Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Purchase of RCM6 interest from CCS $ — $ 3,153 $ — Contributions to RCM6 2,398 3,478 — Purchase of and contributions to equity method investments $ 2,398 $ 6,631 $ — The following table details the components of the cash distributions from the Company's respective equity method investments included within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows . Distributions from equity method investees are reported on our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as “return on investment” within Operating cash flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero; thereafter, such distributions are reported as “distributions in excess of cumulative earnings” within Investing cash flows. Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment CCSS $ 5,019 $ 2,509 $ 5 Included in Operating Cash Flows $ 5,019 $ 2,509 $ 5 Distributions from equity method investees in excess of cumulative earnings CCS $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813 Included in Investing Cash Flows $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition	Acquisitions 2015 Acquisition On November 20, 2014 , the Company entered into an agreement with InSyst Ltd. and ClearView Monitoring Solutions Ltd. (collectively "ClearView"), both Israel-based companies specializing in data analytics, to allow the Company the exclusive option to purchase certain assets of ClearView. The Company paid $0.2 million related to this option, which was included within the Prepaid expenses and other assets line item within the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014. The cost of the option would be applied to the future purchase price if applicable. On January 12, 2015 , the Company notified ClearView that it had elected to exercise its exclusive option to purchase certain assets of ClearView. On March 6, 2015 , the Company acquired the certain assets of InSyst Ltd. and ClearView Monitoring Solutions Ltd., to be operated under the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary ADA Analytics, for total cash payments of $2.4 million which is inclusive of value-add tax ("VAT tax") of $0.4 million . The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting, which requires the total purchase consideration to be allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on estimates of fair value. Operating results related to the acquired assets were consolidated into the Company’s results of operations beginning March 6, 2015 . A summary of the purchase consideration and allocation of the purchase consideration is as follows: (in thousands) Purchase consideration: Cash paid $ 2,360 Fair value of liabilities assumed: Accrued liabilities 10 Contingent consideration 451 Total fair value of liabilities assumed 461 Total purchase consideration $ 2,821 Allocation of purchase consideration Receivables $ 360 Property and equipment and other 82 Intangibles - in process research and development 2,379 Total $ 2,821 The transaction called for a series of contingent payments based upon the achievement of certain predetermined sales targets and the completion of certain sales transactions. These contingent payments were classified as contingent consideration. As part of the purchase price, the Company recorded a $0.5 million liability for the contingent consideration based upon the net present value of the Company's estimate of the future payments. During August 2015, as part of a broader strategic restructuring discussed above, the Company’s management approved an action to wind down operations of ADA Analytics. At that time, the predetermined sales targets had not yet been achieved. Restructuring charges related to these actions are included within Note 2 . As a result of these actions, the Company fully impaired the carrying value of the assets and recognized impairment expense of approximately $2.3 million . The impairment expense was partially offset by a $0.4 million gain that was recognized upon the write-off of the contingent consideration. The net amount of these was included as a component of research and development expense in Note 6 .

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions Accounts Receivables The following table shows the Company's receivable balance associated with related parties, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Receivable from related party - CCS $ 1,918 $ 1,439 Accounts Payable and Advanced Deposits The following table shows the Company's payable balance associated with related parties, exclusive of amounts owed to employees and directors in the normal course of business, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Payable to related party - RCM6 $ 270 $ — Prior to 2014, the Company received advanced payments totaling $10.0 million for M-45 TM technology royalties from CCS. These advanced payments are partially applied against royalties earned and therefore reduce future cash payments to the Company. The following table shows the Company's remaining advanced deposit balance, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Advance deposit from related party - CCS $ 2,981 $ 6,524 Revenues The following table shows the revenues associated with related parties, recognized by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenues from related party - CCS $ 55 $ 665 $ 1,330 The CCS revenues in the table above are included within the Consulting services line in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Other Income The following table shows the other income associated with related parties, recognized by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Royalties, related party - CCS $ 10,642 $ 6,410 $ 2,505 Interest income, related party - CCS — — 40 Interest income, related party - CCSS — — 29 $ 10,642 $ 6,410 $ 2,574 The above CCS royalties are included within the Royalties, related party line in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Notes Payable The following table summarizes the Company's notes payable (net of debt discount and issuance costs) classified according to payment terms, all of which are with related parties, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) Related Party 2015 2014 Short-term note payable Credit Agreement, net of discount Franklin Mutual $ 12,676 $ — Total Short-term borrowings 12,676 — Current portion of long-term borrowings RCM6 note payable, net of discount CCS 1,207 874 DSI Business Owner note payable DSI Business Owner 630 605 Total Current portion of long-term borrowings 1,837 1,479 Total Short-term and current portion of long-term borrowings 14,513 1,479 Long-term borrowings RCM6 note payable, net of discount CCS 13,023 13,312 DSI Business Owner note payable DSI Business Owner 489 1,119 Total Long-term borrowings 13,512 14,431 Total Borrowings $ 28,025 $ 15,910 Credit Agreement On October 22, 2015, the Company entered into a credit agreement for a $15.0 million short-term loan, with Franklin Mutual Quest Fund and MFP Investors LLC (the "Lenders"), and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as the administrative agent and collateral agent (the “Credit Agreement”) which was subsequently amended in 2016 as discussed below. Under the original terms and conditions, the Credit Agreement matured on April 22, 2016 , subject to a three month extension at the Company's option to the extent certain conditions are met. The Credit Agreement bears interest at an annual rate equal to 10.5% and is subject to various prepayment and other premiums if certain events, including a change in control, occur. The Company received net proceeds of $13.5 million and recorded debt discount and debt issuance costs of $1.5 million . The debt discounts and debt issuance costs will be amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the life of the Credit Agreement. As of December 31, 2015 , the unamortized debt discount and issuance costs was $0.6 million . The net proceeds were being used to fund working capital needs and for general operating purposes of the Company and its subsidiaries. On February 8, 2016, the Company entered into the first amendment to the Credit Agreement ("First Amendment") that extended the SEC filings date to March 30, 2016. On March 30, 2016, the Company entered into the second amendment to the Credit Agreement ("Second Amendment"). The Second Amendment extended the maturity date to July 8, 2016, extended the Company's filing date deadline related to its 2015 SEC filings to April 20, 2016, increased the stated interest rate from 10.5% to 15.0% and increased the minimum cash balance requirement from $3.0 million to $3.5 million. The Company incurred approximately $0.6 million in fees related to the Second Amendment. All obligations of the Company under the Credit Agreement are unconditionally guaranteed by each of the Company’s wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries (other than ADA Analytics, LLC) and are secured by perfected security interests in substantially all of the assets of the Company and the guarantors, subject to certain agreed upon exceptions. The Lenders are beneficial owners of Common Stock in the Company. The Credit Agreement was approved by the Company's Board of Directors and by the Audit Committee as a related party transaction. In connection with the Credit Agreement, and the Company's pledge and assignment to the Collateral Agent for all of ADA's equity interests in CCSS, the Lenders required that NexGen consent to a pledge. The Company entered into an Indemnity Agreement with NexGen whereby ADES and ADA agreed to indemnify NexGen from and against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities, costs, fees or expenses, which may arise in connection with the Company pledging its CCSS equity interests. The Indemnity Agreement was approved by the Company's Board of Directors and by the Audit Committee as a related party transaction. CCS - RCM6 Note Payable As described in Note 7 , the Company acquired membership interests in RCM6 from CCS on February 10, 2014, through an up-front payment of $2.4 million and an initial note payable, which fair value was determined to be $13.3 million as of the acquisition date. Due to the payment terms of the note purchase agreement, the note payable periodically adds interest to the outstanding note payable principal balance. The stated rate associated with the note is 1.65% and the effective rate of the note at inception was 20% . Due to the difference between the stated rate and the effective rate, the note payable is carried at a discount of $7.6 million as of December 31, 2015. Unpaid principal and interest on the note are due in 2022 . As described in Note 7 and in Note 22 , on March 3, 2016, the Company sold its 24.95% membership interest in RCM6 to a third party. DSI Business Owner As of December 31, 2014, the Company terminated the consulting portion of the agreements with the DSI Business Owner. However, per the terms of the remaining agreements the Company is still required to make all remaining payments structured as a note payable through the third quarter of 2017 . The interest rate on the note payable is 4% . As there are no longer any future service obligations related to the note payable, the Company recorded $1.1 million of expense within the Legal and professional fees line item of the Consolidated Statements of Operations during the years ended December 31, 2014. As described in Note 22 , in February 2016, the Company entered into an agreement with the DSI Business Owner to settle the remaining amounts owed as of the date of the agreement of approximately $1.1 million for $0.3 million , which was paid during the first quarter of 2016. Based upon the sale of the Company's ownership interest in RCM6, the notes payable owed to CCS was no longer due. The following table presents the future aggregate annual total borrowing amounts due, excluding unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, as of December 31, 2015 , after giving effect to the RCM6 transaction and the DSI Business Owner agreement which occurred during the first quarter of 2016, discussed above: Years Ending December 31, Amount ( in thousands ) 2016 $ 13,500 2017 — 2018 — 2019 — 2020 — Thereafter — Total $ 13,500 Highview License In November 2014, in addition to acquiring the cost method investment in Highview, as described in Note 4 , the Company's subsidiary, ADA-ES, Inc. also acquired an exclusive license to utilize Highview's technology in North America, payable in British Pounds through 2023 , with total payments of $3.4 million , based upon the exchange rate as of December 31, 2015 . The technology license is included within the Other assets line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and is being amortized over a 10 year period, as described in Note 1 . The liability is included within the Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities line items in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . The technology license agreement was amended in November 2015 to defer license fee payments for a period of one year, allowing the Company to elect a non-exclusive license at a lower cost, or to terminate the license in return for paying a buy-out fee starting at £0.2 million if terminated in 2016 ( $0.3 million based upon the exchange rate in effect as of the date of the November 2015 amendment) and decreases annually over the term of the 10 year agreement. Clearview As discussed in Note 8 , on November 20, 2014 , the Company entered into an agreement with InSyst Ltd. and ClearView Monitoring Solutions Ltd., both Israel-based companies specializing in data analytics, to allow the Company the exclusive option to purchase certain assets of ClearView. The Company paid $0.2 million related to this option which was included within the Prepaid expenses and other assets line item within the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014. Additionally, from November 20, 2014 through the date of the acquisition, the Company paid certain operating costs of Clearview. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded expenses of $0.2 million related to these payments within the General and administrative line in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . During 2015, prior to the acquisition, the Company recorded expenses of $0.2 million related to these payments within the General and administrative line in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Arch Coal License In June 2010, the Company entered into a Development and License Agreement and executed a Securities Subscription and Investment Agreement with Arch Coal, Inc. ("Arch") pursuant to which the Company licensed, on an exclusive, non-transferable basis, the use of certain of its technology to enhance coal by a proprietary treatment process. The Company received a non-refundable license fee payment from Arch in the amount of $2.0 million and incurred non-reimbursable costs associated with this agreement in the amount of $0.3 million . However, as the agreement does not specify an end date related to the completion of the agreement, the Company has recorded the applicable costs in the Deposits line item within Other Long-term assets and has recorded the payment received in the Deferred revenue lines item in of Other long-term liabilities in Note 12. Board of Director Matters An Arch designee holds one seat on the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). The appointment of one designee to the Board was made pursuant to a 2003 Subscription and Investment Agreement, as amended to reflect the effect of the Company's two-for-one stock split in March 2014, whereby the Company’s management agreed to make available one seat on our Board for an Arch designee and to vote all shares and proxies they are entitled to vote in favor of such designee for so long as Arch continues to hold at least 200,000 shares of our common stock. From May 2014 through September 2014, A. Bradley Gabbard, a member of the Board of Directors since November 2012, entered into a consulting agreement with the Company to assist in the Restatement process. Mr. Gabbard received compensation of $0.1 million during this period related to the services provided. In addition, as required by the Company's related-party transaction policy, the above noted agreement was approved by the Company’s Audit Committee before being recommended to the Board for approval and was then approved by the disinterested members of the Board. Mr. Gabbard became the Company's Chief Financial Officer in June 2015. Other Matters In January 2013, to assist with an executive's relocation to Colorado, the Company purchased a $0.3 million interest in the executive’s real estate owned in New Jersey, consisting of a single family residence and an adjacent vacant lot. The Company had a right to the net proceeds of the sale of the property and was obligated to reimburse the executive for the monthly carrying costs for the property until the property was sold. The property was sold during the second quarter of 2013, and the Company recognized a loss of $0.1 million . This transaction was ratified by our Audit Committee and the Board of Directors. Refer to Note 7 for a discussion of transactions entered into with the Company's equity investees.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying amounts of financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, deposits and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. Accordingly, these instruments are not presented in the table below. The following table provides the estimated fair values of the remaining financial instruments: As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Financial Instruments: Investment securities: Investment securities, restricted, long-term $ 336 $ 336 $ 336 $ 336 Cost method investment $ 2,776 $ 2,776 $ 2,776 $ 2,776 Borrowings and Notes Payable Short-term borrowings $ 12,676 $ 12,676 $ — $ — Current portion of notes payable, related parties $ 1,837 $ 1,457 $ 1,479 $ 1,439 Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties $ 13,512 $ 13,273 $ 14,431 $ 14,356 Highview technology license payable $ 519 $ 519 $ 155 $ 155 Highview technology license payable, long-term $ 1,038 $ 1,038 $ 1,389 $ 1,389 Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award $ 742 $ 742 $ — $ — (1) The fair value related to the DSI business owner note payable amounts as of December 31, 2015 was determined using the settlement agreement amount of $0.3 million , as described in Note 9 . Concentration of credit risk The Company's certificates of deposit investment securities are at two financial institutions. If those institutions were to be unable to perform their obligations, the Company would be at risk regarding the amount of investment in excess of the federal deposit insurance corporation limits ( $250 thousand ) that would be returned to the Company. Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis The estimated fair values of investment securities are described below. Refer to Note 4 of these Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the Company’s investment securities. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. The Company uses the hierarchy prescribed in the accounting guidance for fair value measurements, based upon the available inputs to the valuation and the degree to which they are observable or not observable in the market. The three levels in the hierarchy are as follows: • Level 1 Inputs - Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that are accessible as of the measurement date. • Level 2 Inputs - Inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable either directly or indirectly, including but not limited to quoted prices in markets that are not active, quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities and observable inputs other than quoted prices such as interest rates or yield curves. • Level 3 Inputs - Unobservable inputs reflecting the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Financial instruments carried and measured at fair value on a recurring basis are presented in the table below according to the fair value hierarchy described above: As of December 31, 2015 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Assets: Investment securities, restricted, long-term $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336 Total assets at fair value $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336 Liabilities: Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award $ — $ 742 $ — $ 742 Total liabilities at fair value $ — $ 742 $ — $ 742 As of December 31, 2014 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Assets: Investment securities, restricted, long-term $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336 Total assets at fair value $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336 The estimated fair value of certificates of deposit investments securities were estimated to be equal to the deposit value of the investment due to the market interest rates and relative short term nature of the instrument. The Company's experience with these types of investments and the expectations of the current investments held is that they will be satisfied at the current carrying amount. These securities were classified as Level 2. Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis The following tables show information related to assets and liabilities measured on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Total Losses Assets: Property and equipment $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Impaired note receivable — — — — (1,000 ) Total assets at fair value $ — $ — $ — $ — $ (1,000 ) During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company recorded impairments totaling approximately $0.3 million to reduce the carrying value of certain property and equipment that the Company intended to sell to its estimated sales value, less estimated costs to sell. The property and equipment was subsequently sold at auction. Proceeds from the sale of the impaired assets totaled approximately $0.6 million . No gain or loss was recognized on the sale of the property and equipment. Also during the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company sold certain property and equipment having a net book value of approximately $0.1 million . Proceeds from the sale totaled approximately $0.3 million , which resulted in the recognition of a gain on the sale of approximately $0.2 million . As of December 31, 2014 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Total Losses Assets: Property and equipment $ — $ — $ 424 $ 424 $ (355 ) Impaired note receivable — — — — (500 ) Total assets at fair value $ — $ — $ 424 $ 424 $ (855 ) During the year ended December 31, 2014 , the Company recorded impairments on property and equipment, with a total carrying value of $0.8 million , as a result of ongoing negative cash flows related to assets specifically related to the Company's DSI system fabrication facility. The fair values of the impaired assets were estimated using an appraisal obtained from a third party. The fair value measurements represent a Level 3 measurement as it is based on significant inputs not observable in the market. Additionally, the Company recorded impairment charges related to a Note Receivable, as discussed in Note 11 .

Supplemental Financial Informat

Supplemental Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Supplemental Financial Information	Supplemental Financial Information Supplemental Balance Sheet Information The following table summarizes the components of Prepaid expenses and other assets and Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets : As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Other current assets: Prepaid expenses $ 2,117 $ 1,573 Inventory 189 630 Other — 332 $ 2,306 $ 2,535 Other long-term assets: Deposits $ 414 $ 638 Intangibles 1,941 2,035 Other long-term assets 341 322 $ 2,696 $ 2,995 In December 2014, the Company loaned $0.5 million to an independent technology development company exploring energy storage to provide financing to pursue emissions technology projects, bearing annual interest of 8% . Interest and principal were payable at maturity of the agreement in June 2015. During March 2015, the Company loaned an additional $0.5 million to the third party, continuing to bear annual interest at 8% , and all interest and principal payments were then due in March 2018. Subsequent to the second loan disbursement, the Company became aware that the independent technology development company exploring energy storage was not awarded contracts which would have utilized their emissions technology. The Company also became aware that without these contracts, the ability of the independent third party to repay these loans was in doubt. The Company concluded that it was probable that as of December 31, 2014 facts existed that caused the loan to be impaired as of that date, even though the Company did not become aware of these facts until 2015. Therefore, the Company concluded that it was not probable that the third party had the ability to repay principal and interest based upon the contract terms as of the date of the original disbursement. As a result, the Company recorded an allowance against the entire principal balance of the note receivable outstanding as of December 31, 2014 , reversed accrued interest and put the note on non-accrual status as of December 31, 2014 . The Company also recorded an allowance in 2015 against the additional principal balance of the note receivable disbursed in March 2015. The expense related to the note receivable allowance in included within the General and administrative line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . The following table details the components of Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets : As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Other current liabilities: Accrued compensation $ 369 $ 1,539 Accrued interest 1,042 894 Accrued losses on equipment contracts 759 3,127 Deferred revenue 682 414 Other 3,346 765 $ 6,198 $ 6,739 Other long-term liabilities: Deferred rent $ 767 $ 1,021 Warranty liabilities 1,197 152 Deferred revenue, related party 2,000 2,000 Other long-term liabilities 2,605 2,838 $ 6,569 $ 6,011 Included within Other long-term liabilities is the Company's asset retirement obligation. Changes in the Company's asset retirement obligations were as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Asset retirement obligation, beginning of year $ 1,188 $ 1,130 Accretion 60 58 Asset retirement obligations, end of year $ 1,248 $ 1,188 Supplemental Consolidated Statements of Operations Information The following table details the components of Interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations : Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 453A interest $ 4,639 $ 3,371 $ 1,313 RCM6 note payable, related party 2,468 2,245 — Credit agreement interest 1,180 — — Other 115 109 25 $ 8,402 $ 5,725 $ 1,338 During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recognized $1.1 million of depreciation expense, included within the Research and development, net line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the research and development asset giving rise to the asset retirement obligation.

Stockholders Equity

Stockholders Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Stockholders Equity	Stockholders Equity The Company has two classes of capital stock authorized, common stock and preferred stock, which are described as follows: Preferred Stock The Board of Directors is authorized to provide, out of the unissued shares of Preferred Stock and to fix the number of shares constituting a series of Preferred Stock and, with respect to each series, to fix the number of shares and designation of such series, the voting powers, if any, the preferences and relative, participating, option or other special rights, if any, and any qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, of the shares of such series. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , there was no Preferred Stock outstanding. Common Stock Holders of common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held of record on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders. Additionally, holders of common stock are entitled to receive dividends when and if declared by the Board of Directors, subject to any statutory or contractual restrictions on payment of dividends and to any restrictions on the payment of dividends imposed by the terms of any outstanding preferred stock. Upon dissolution, liquidation or the sale of all or substantially all of the Company's assets, after payment in full of any amounts required to be paid to creditors and to the holders of preferred stock having liquidation preferences, if any, the holders of shares of common stock will be entitled to receive the Company's remaining assets for distribution on a pro rata basis. Dividends The Company is limited in its ability to pay dividends without concurrently increasing its letters of credit related to the Royalty Award, further discussed in Note 14 , in an amount equal to 50% of the fair market value of the dividend. The Company is also restricted from paying dividends as a result of the Credit Agreement entered into during the fourth quarter of 2015. Should the Company pay dividends, the payment of such dividends will be dependent upon earnings, financial condition and other factors considered relevant by the Company's Board of Directors and will be subject to limitations imposed under Delaware law. Activity On November 20, 2013, the Company closed on an underwritten public offering selling 1,380,000 shares of common stock for $22.50 per share generating approximately $29.0 million in net proceeds. On March 14, 2014, the Company completed a two -for-one stock split of the Company’s common stock, which was effected in the form of a common stock dividend. All share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for the split. On February 1, 2015, the Company entered into a Rights Agreement with Computershare Trust Company N.A. as the Rights Agent (“Rights Agreement”) whereby it declared a dividend distribution of one Right for each outstanding share of common stock, par value of $0.001 . The dividend was payable to holders of record as of the close of business on February 16, 2015 (the "Record Date"). Each holder of Common Stock as of the Record Date received a dividend of one Right per share of Common Stock. One Right was also issued together with each share of Common Stock issued by the Company after the Record Date and prior to the Distribution Date, and in certain circumstances, after the Distribution Date. New certificates for Common Stock issued after the Record Date contain a notation incorporating the Rights Agreement by reference. Until the distribution date, the Rights are not exercisable and can only be transferred in connection with the transfer of Common Stock. As of the distribution date, if it occurs, the Rights will separate from the Common Stock and become exercisable to purchase one one-thousands of a share of Series A Junior Preferred Stock of the Company at a purchase price, which may be adjusted, of $63.00 . This portion of a share of Preferred Stock would give the holder approximately the same dividend, voting and liquidation rights as would one share of Common Stock. The Series A Junior Preferred Stock is not redeemable and ranks junior to all other series of the Company's Preferred Stock as to the payment of dividends and distribution of assets. On December 16, 2015, the Company entered into the First Amendment to the Rights Agreement ("Amendment"). The Amendment amended the definition of an “Acquiring Person” to increase the beneficial ownership threshold of the Company's common stock in such definition from 10% to 20% . The Amendment did not change the expiration date. The Rights expired on February 1, 2016.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation The number of shares and units described in this Note 13 have been retroactively restated to reflect the two for one stock split of the Company’s common stock, which was effected in the form of a common stock dividend distributed on March 14, 2014. The Plans The Company currently has several stock and option plans, including the 2005 Directors’ Compensation Plan (the “2005 Plan”), the Amended and Restated 2007 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (the “2007 Plan”), the Amended and Restated 2010 Non-Management Compensation and Incentive Plan, as amended (the “2010 Plan”) and the Profit Sharing Retirement Plan, which is a plan qualified under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “401(k) Plan”) as described below. These plans allow the Company to issue stock-based awards, including common stock, restricted stock, stock options and other rights and benefits under the plans to employees, directors and non-employees. As discussed in Note 1 and Note 20 , effective July 1, 2013, ADES replaced ADA as the publicly held corporation and assumed and adopted these plans and the outstanding awards granted pursuant to the plans. The 2005 Plan - During 2005, the Company adopted the 2005 Plan, which authorized the issuance of shares of common stock and the grant of options to purchase shares of common stock to non-management directors. Under the 2005 Plan, the award of stock is limited to not more than 2,000 shares per individual per year, and the grant of options is limited to 10,000 per individual in total. The aggregate number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2005 Plan totals 180,000 shares ( 100,000 in the form of stock awards and 80,000 in the form of options). These stock options vest in three equal annual installments beginning one year after the grant date. The 2005 Plan terminated during 2015. The 2007 Plan - During 2007, the Company adopted the 2007 Plan, as amended and restated on July 1, 2013 and amended on July 19, 2012 and February 12, 2014, with two additional amendments, approved by the Board on February 13, 2014 and June 5, 2015, pending stockholder approval. The 2007 Plan permits grants to employees, directors and non-employees of shares of common stock, restricted stock, stock options, cash awards and other rights and benefits under the plan. The maximum annual grant limit for a non-management director on an annual basis is 50,000 shares (subject to stockholder approval). The maximum awards available to be granted from the 2007 Plan on an annual basis to any other individual is 400,000 shares (subject to stockholder approval). The total number of shares authorized for issuance under the 2007 Plan is 3.6 million . The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has also approved annual long-term incentive awards for executive officers under the 2007 Plan. The awards vest in equal installments over a period of three years subject to the grantee’s continuous service with the Company and the grant of PSU's. Each PSU represents a contingent right to receive shares of the Company’s common stock if the Company meets certain performance measures over the requisite period. Vesting of the PSU's, if at all, will occur no later than January 2 after the conclusion of the third year of the performance period, subject to the grantee’s continuous service and the achievement of certain pre-established performance goals. Amounts vested are measured as of December 31st, immediately prior to the end of the service period, unless the PSU's vest sooner at the target amount as a result of certain transactions pursuant to Section 11 of the 2007 Plan. The number of shares of common stock a participant receives will be increased (up to 200 percent of target levels) or reduced (down to zero ) based on the level of achievement of performance goals. The number of PSU's that may be earned by a participant is determined at the end of the performance period based on the relative placement of the Company’s total stockholder return (“TSR”) for that period with approximately 75% of the award based on the relative performance of the Company’s TSR performance compared to the respective TSRs of a specified group of peer companies and the remaining portion of the award based on the Company’s TSR performance compared to the Russell 3000 Index. The 2010 Plan - During 2010, the Company adopted the 2010 Plan which permits grants of awards to employees, which may be shares, rights to purchase restricted stock, bonuses of restricted stock, or other rights or benefits under the plan. The Company reserved 600,000 shares of its common stock for these purposes. The Plan was amended and restated as of July 19, 2012 to make non-material changes to assure Internal Revenue Code Section 409A compliance. The 401(k) Plan - In 2009, the Company revised its 401(k) Plan to allow the issuance of shares of its common stock to employees to satisfy its obligation to match employee contributions under the terms of the plan in lieu of matching contributions in cash. The Company reserved 600,000 shares of its common stock for this purpose. The value of common stock issued as matching contributions under the plan is determined based on the per share market value of the Company’s common stock generally on quarterly authorization dates. Activity related to the 401(k) Plan is included in Note 15 . Collectively, these plans are called the “Plans.” Expense Restricted Stock - Restricted stock is typically granted with vesting terms of three or five years. The fair value of Restricted Stock Awards ("RSA's") is determined based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the authorization date of the grant multiplied by the number of shares subject to the stock award. Compensation expense for restricted stock awards is generally recognized over the entire vesting period on a straight-line basis. Stock Options - Stock options generally vest over three years and have a contractual limit of five years from the date of grant to exercise. The fair value of stock options granted is determined on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the related expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the entire vesting period. The following table indicates the weighted average assumptions that were used related to the awards granted for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively: Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Stock options granted: Risk-free interest rate 1.8 % 1.6 % 0.9 % Dividend yield — % — % — % Volatility 74.5 % 80.4 % 91.0 % Expected term (in years) 5.0 5.0 5.0 The Company uses historical data to estimate inputs used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Risk-free interest rate - The risk-free interest rate for stock options granted during the period was determined by using a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury rate for the periods that coincided with the expected terms listed above. Dividends - As no dividends have been paid, nor are expected to be paid in future periods, no dividend yield was included in the calculations. Expected volatility - To calculate expected volatility, the Company’s historical volatility of common shares was used. Expected term - The Company’s expected term of options was based upon historical exercise behavior and consideration of the vesting term of the Company’s options and the options’ contractual term of five years. Stock Appreciation Rights - Stock Appreciation Rights ("SAR's") generally vest over three years and have a contractual limit of five years from the date of grant to exercise. The fair value of SAR's granted is determined on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the related expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the derived service period of the respective awards. For those awards granted during the year ended December 31, 2015 , as settlement of the award is out of the control of the Company, the awards are currently classified as liability based equity awards and are recorded at the estimated fair value at each balance sheet date. The following table indicates the weighted average assumptions that were used related to the awards granted for the year ended December 31, 2015 . No SAR's were granted prior to January 1, 2015. Years Ended December 31, 2015 SAR's granted: Risk-free interest rate 1.8 % Dividend yield — % Volatility 74.5 % Expected term (in years) 5.0 The Company uses historical data to estimate inputs used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Risk-free interest rate - The risk-free interest rate for SAR's granted during the period was determined by using a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury rate for the periods that coincided with the expected terms listed above. Dividends - As no dividends have been paid, nor are expected to be paid in future periods, no dividend yield was included in the calculations. Expected volatility - To calculate expected volatility, the Company’s historical volatility of common shares was used. Expected term - The Company’s expected term of SAR's was based upon consideration of the contractual term of the Company’s SAR's of five years. PSU's - Compensation expense is recognized for PSU awards on a straight-line basis over a three -year service period based on the estimated fair value at the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model using the following weighted average assumptions: Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 PSUs granted: Risk-free interest rate 1.0 % 0.8 % 0.4 % Dividend yield — % — % — % Volatility 64.3 % 74.5 % 81.4 % Performance period (in years) 3.0 3.0 3.0 The Company uses historical data to estimate inputs used in the Monte Carlo pricing model. Risk-free interest rate - The risk-free interest rate for PSU's granted during the period was determined by using a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury rate for the periods that coincided with the expected terms listed above. Dividends - As no dividends have been paid, nor are expected to be paid in future periods, no dividend yield was included in the calculations. Expected volatility - To calculate expected volatility, the Company’s historical volatility of common shares was used. Performance period - The Company’s performance period is based upon the vesting term of the Company’s PSU awards. The Company recorded the following compensation expense related to its various plans: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 RSA expense $ 2,909 $ 2,612 $ 1,681 Stock option expense 658 117 48 SAR expense 742 — — PSU expense 2,895 1,983 583 Total stock-based compensation expense 7,204 4,712 2,312 Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation expense — — — Net income impact $ 7,204 $ 4,712 $ 2,312 The Company recorded awards to Directors in General and administrative expense line and all other awards within the Payroll and benefit expense line in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company modified the terms of awards granted to 37 and 17 employees, respectively, in connection with its restructuring plans and termination of the impacted employees discussed in Note 2 . These modifications resulted in the accelerated vesting and incremental expense related to certain performance-based awards and restricted stock awards. As a result, during 2015 and 2014 , the Company recognized incremental share-based compensation of $3.4 million and $1.0 million , respectively, which was included in the Payroll and benefits line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The amount of unrecognized compensation cost as of December 31, 2015 , and the expected weighted average period over which the cost will be recognized is as follows: As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Unrecognized Compensation Cost Expected Weighted Average Period of Recognition (in years) RSA expense $ 775 0.7 Stock option expense 202 0.9 SAR expense 746 0.3 PSU expense 613 1.0 Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense $ 2,336 0.7 Activity Restricted Stock A summary of the status and activity of non-vested RSA is presented in the following table: For the Years Ended December 31. 2015 2014 2013 (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Shares Weighted Shares Weighted-Average Shares Weighted-Average Non-vested at beginning of year 209,921 $13.59 263,989 $9.05 254,156 $6.96 Granted 127,943 $14.97 112,643 $24.74 82,440 $16.88 Vested (165,796 ) $17.51 (118,364 ) $15.75 (63,187 ) $10.73 Forfeited (1) (37,360 ) $19.30 (48,347 ) $9.49 (9,420 ) $9.53 Non-vested at end of year 134,708 $8.49 209,921 $13.59 263,989 $9.05 (1) Included within the 2015 forfeited / canceled units are RSA's related to a former executive that were clawed back. The Company recognized $0.1 million within Other Income line item on the Consolidated Statement of Operations related to these awards. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of RSA's granted or modified during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 was $1.9 million , $2.8 million , and $1.4 million , respectively. The total fair value of shares vested during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $2.9 million , $1.9 million and $0.7 million , respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2015 , the Company accelerated the terms of equity awards granted to employees as part of the reduction in workforce. The Company recorded incremental expense of $1.2 million in the Payroll and benefits line item in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company accelerated the vesting and expense recognition of 95,088 , 55,106 and 744 RSA's granted to 37 , 17 and one employees, respectively, in accordance with severance agreements. As a result, during 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company recognized incremental share-based compensation of $1.2 million , $1.0 million and zero , respectively, which was included in the Payroll and benefits line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Stock Options A summary of option activity under the Plans is presented below: (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Number of Weighted Aggregate Intrinsic Value Weighted For the year ended December 31, 2013 Options outstanding, start of year 371,952 $ 5.10 Options granted 10,000 $ 11.93 Options exercised (54,376 ) $ 6.51 Options expired / forfeited (10,000 ) $ 5.10 Options outstanding, end of year 317,576 $ 5.07 $ 7,002 1.0 Options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2013 300,909 $ 4.74 $ 6,734 0.8 For the year ended December 31, 2014 Options outstanding, start of year 317,576 $ 5.07 Options granted 30,000 $ 20.67 Options exercised (260,126 ) $ 4.30 Options expired / forfeited (13,250 ) $ 6.90 Options outstanding, end of year 74,200 $ 13.76 $ 670 3.0 Options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2014 34,199 $ 8.44 $ 491 1.6 For the year ended December 31, 2015 Options outstanding, start of year 74,200 $ 13.76 Options granted 56,250 13.87 Options exercised — — Options expired / forfeited (24,200 ) 7.59 Options outstanding, end of year 106,250 $ 15.22 $ — 3.76 Options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2015 82,915 $ 14.04 $ — 3.88 The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 was $0.8 million , $0.6 million , and $0.1 million , respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was zero , $4.9 million and $0.8 million , respectively. The total fair value of shares issued as a result of options exercised (measured as of the date of exercise) during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was zero , $6.1 million and $1.2 million , respectively. Cash flows resulting from excess tax benefits, if any, are classified as part of cash flows from financing activities. Excess tax benefits are realized tax benefits from tax deductions for vested RSA's, settled PSU's, and exercised options in excess of the deferred tax asset attributable to stock compensation costs for such equity awards. The Company recorded no excess tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 . During 2015, approximately $0.5 million of stock-based compensation expense was recognized as a result of granting an executive officer stock options which were immediately vested, with an exercise price of $13.87 per option. SAR's A summary of SAR activity under the Plans is presented below: Years Ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Number of Weighted Aggregate Intrinsic Value Weighted SAR's outstanding at beginning of year — $ — Granted 243,750 $ 13.87 Exercised — $ — Expired / forfeited — $ — SAR's outstanding, end of year 243,750 $ 13.87 $ — 4.5 SAR's vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2015 43,750 $ 13.87 $ — 0 The SAR's awarded during 2015 were granted to the Company's Chief Executive Officer. If Amendment No. 4 to the Company’s Amended and Restated 2007 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, is approved by a vote of the stockholders prior to June 5, 2017, the SAR award will automatically terminate and the Option award granted in tandem with the SAR award will become exercisable pursuant to the vesting terms thereof. However, until stockholder approval is obtained, as settlement of the award is out of the control of the Company, the awards are currently classified as liability based equity awards and are recorded at the estimated fair value at each balance sheet date. PSU's A summary of the status and activity of non-vested PSU's is presented in the following table: For the Years Ended December 31. 2015 2014 2013 (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Units Weighted-Average Units Weighted-Average Units Weighted-Average Non-vested at beginning of year 142,357 $ 30.65 89,578 $ 26.04 — $ — Granted (1) 69,218 20.10 57,547 37.45 89,578 26.04 Vested (1) (13,763 ) 30.52 — — — — Forfeited / Canceled (1) (2) (28,478 ) 30.44 (4,768 ) 26.04 — — Non-vested at end of year 169,334 $ 26.38 142,357 $ 30.65 89,578 $ 26.04 (1) The number of units shown in the table above are based on target performance. The final number of shares of common stock issued may vary depending on the achievement of market conditions established within the awards, which could result in the actual number of shares issued ranging from zero to a maximum of two times the number of units shown in the above table. (2) Included within the 2015 forfeited / canceled units are PSU's related to a former executive that were clawed back. The Company recognized $0.2 million within Other Income line item on the Consolidated Statement of Operations related to these awards. The weighted-average grant date fair value of PSU's granted during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 was $1.4 million , $2.2 million , and $2.3 million , respectively. The PSU's granted will remain unvested until the third anniversary date of their issuance, at which time the actual number of vested shares will be determined based upon the actual price performances of the Company’s common stock relative to a broad stock index and a peer group performance index. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company modified and accelerated certain PSU's that were granted to former executive officers in 2013, 2014, and 2015. The Company recorded incremental expense of $2.1 million and $0.2 million in the Payroll and benefits line item in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The following table shows the PSUs that were settled by issuing the Company's common stock relative to a peer group performance index and broad stock index. Year of Grant Net Number of Issued Shares upon Vesting Shares Withheld to Settle Tax Withholding Obligations TSR Multiple Range Russell 3000 Multiple Low High Low High For the year ended December 31, 2015 2013 8,768 3,954 1.75 1.75 2.00 2.00 2014 2,506 1,145 0.63 0.75 — 0.75 There were no PSUs settled during the year ended December 31, 2014 . Other Matters Cash received from the exercise of stock options for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was zero , $0.2 million , and $0.4 million , respectively. There were no other cash receipts during these years from the exercise of other share-based compensation arrangements.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Legal Proceedings The Company is involved in certain legal actions, described below. The outcomes of these legal actions are not within the Company’s complete control and may not be known for prolonged periods of time. In some actions, the claimants seek monetary damages and other penalties that could require significant expenditures. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the Company records a liability in the Consolidated Financial Statements for loss contingencies when a loss is known or considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If the reasonable estimate of a known or probable loss is a range, and no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other, the minimum amount of the range is accrued. If a loss is reasonably possible but not known or probable, and can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss or range of loss is disclosed. When determining the estimated loss or range of loss, significant judgment is required to estimate the amount and timing of a loss to be recorded. Estimates of probable losses resulting from litigation and governmental proceedings involving the Company are inherently difficult to predict, particularly when the matters are in early procedural stages, with incomplete facts or legal discovery; involve unsubstantiated or indeterminate claims for damages; potentially involve penalties or fines. We cannot predict with any certainty the final outcome of any legal proceedings as described in the paragraphs below, and we cannot assure you that the ultimate resolution of any such matter will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Securities class action lawsuit: United Food and Commercial Workers Union v. Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. , No. 14-cv-01243-CMA-KMT (U.S. District Court, D. Colo.) A class action lawsuit against ADES and certain of its current and former officers is pending in the federal court in Denver, Colorado. This lawsuit and a companion case were originally filed in May 2014. On February 19, 2015, the Court consolidated these cases and appointed the United Foods and Commercial Workers Union and Participating Food Industry Employers Tri-State Pension Fund as lead plaintiff and approved its selection of the law firms. The consolidated case is now captioned United Food and Commercial Workers Union v. Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. , No. 14-cv-01243-CMA-KMT (U.S. District Court, D. Colo.). The lead plaintiff filed “Lead Plaintiff’s Consolidated Class Action Complaint” on April 20, 2015 (the “Consolidated Complaint”). The Consolidated Complaint names as defendants the Company and certain current and former Company officers. Plaintiffs allege that ADES and other defendants misrepresented to the investing public the Company’s financial condition and its financial controls to artificially inflate and maintain the market price of ADES’s common stock. The Consolidated Complaint alleges two claims for relief for: 1) alleged violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5, and 2) control person liability under Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act. The lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary damages together with costs, and attorneys’ fees incurred in prosecuting the class action, among other relief. The Consolidated Complaint, alleges a class period covering all purchasers or acquirers of the common stock of ADES or its predecessor-in-interest during the proposed class period from May 12, 2011 through January 29, 2015. Defendants filed a motion to dismiss the Consolidated Complaint on June 19, 2015, contending the Consolidated Complaint: 1) fails to meet the strict pleading standards required for Section 10(b) claims; and 2) fails to establish the primary violation required for any claim of secondary (control person) liability. Plaintiffs filed a response in opposition to this motion on July 2, 2015 and Defendants filed their reply brief on July 16, 2015. On March 7, 2016 the parties filed a stipulated motion to stay the case while the parties mediate the matter. On March 8, 2016, the motion to stay was granted, and the Defendants’ motion to dismiss was denied without prejudice with the option to refile should mediation fail. The case is stayed until further order of the court. The Company has not recorded an expense related to losses in connection with this matter because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter. Stockholder derivative lawsuits: In Re Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. Shareholder Derivative Litigation , No. 2014CV-30709 (District Court, Douglas County, Colorado) (consolidated actions). Consolidated stockholder derivative claims against certain of the Company’s current and former officers and directors, along with the Company as a "nominal defendant", are pending in the District Court for Douglas County, Colorado, and are currently stayed. In June and July 2014 stockholder derivative actions were filed in the Colorado District Courts for Douglas County and for the City and County of Denver. By agreement of the parties, the case in the Denver District Court was transferred to the Douglas County District Court and the cases were consolidated. In separate complaints, the plaintiffs allege breach of fiduciary duties, waste of corporate assets, and unjust enrichment against the defendants for their allegedly utilizing improper accounting techniques and failing to maintain effective internal controls that together resulted in materially inaccurate financial statements from which incentive compensation was derived and paid. Plaintiffs demand, on behalf of the Company, unspecified monetary damages, “appropriate equitable relief,” and the costs and disbursements of the action, including attorneys', accountants and expert fees, costs, expenses, and restitution, as well as certain corporate governance changes. On August 28, 2014, the Colorado state court approved a Stipulation and proposed Order Consolidating Actions (the "Order"), Appointing Co-Lead Plaintiffs and Co-Lead Counsel, and Staying Consolidated Action. Under that Order, the consolidated derivative actions are stayed at least 30 days after a decision by the U.S. District Court on the Defendants’ motion to dismiss the operative complaint in the securities class action. Any party has the right to move to lift the stay on 30-days’ written notice to the other parties. The Company has not recorded an expense related to losses in connection with this matter because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter. SEC Inquiry On April 7, 2014, the SEC’s Division of Enforcement informed the Company that it had initiated an inquiry to determine if violations of the federal securities laws have occurred (the “SEC Inquiry”), and in September 2014 the SEC issued a formal order of investigation. The SEC Inquiry generally pertains to the restatement of the Company's financial statements and internal controls processes, as described in Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014. The Company is fully cooperating with the SEC and has provided information and documents to the SEC on an ongoing basis. To date, the SEC has not asserted any formal claims. While we cannot predict the duration or outcome of the SEC Inquiry, it could result in the payment of monetary penalties and other relief. The Company has not recorded an expense related to losses in connection with this matter because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter. Settlement and Royalty Indemnity In August 2008, Norit International N.V. f/k/a Norit N.V. ("Norit") filed a lawsuit against the Company asserting claims for misappropriation of trade secrets and other claims related to the Company's ADA Carbon Solutions, LLC joint venture ("Carbon Solutions"). In August 2011, the Company and Norit entered into a settlement agreement whereby the Company paid amounts related to the non-solicitation breach of contract claim and ADA was also required to pay additional damages related to certain future revenues generated from the former equity method investment through the second quarter of 2018 (the “Royalty Award”). Payments of amounts due under the Royalty Award for each quarter are payable three months after such quarter ends through the second quarter of 2018. In October 2011, an arbitration panel endorsed and confirmed the terms of the settlement agreement. Additionally, during November 2011, the Company entered into an Indemnity Settlement Agreement whereby the Company agreed to settle certain indemnity obligations asserted against the Company related to the Norit litigation and relinquished all of its equity interest in Carbon Solutions to Carbon Solutions and amended the Intellectual Property License Agreement dated October 1, 2008 between the Company and Carbon Solutions. In the event that the Company declares or otherwise issues a dividend to any or all of its stockholders prior to January 1, 2018, other than repurchases of common stock under employee stock plans, the Company must increase its letter of credit amounts, which support the payments which must be paid to Norit, equal to 50% of the aggregate fair market value of such dividends. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company has recorded the components of the Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation and Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term line items in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation, short-term $ 6,502 $ 3,749 Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term 13,797 20,273 Total settlement and royalty indemnity $ 20,299 $ 24,022 Future amounts to be paid related to the Royalty Award may materially differ from current estimates due to future revenues generated from the former equity method investment. CCS The Company also has certain limited obligations contingent upon future events in connection with the activities of CCS. The Company, NexGen and two entities affiliated with NexGen have provided GSFS with limited guarantees (the “CCS Party guarantees”) related to certain losses it may suffer as a result of inaccuracies or breach of representations and covenants. The Company also is a party to a contribution agreement with NexGen under which any party called upon to pay on a CCS Party Guaranty is entitled to receive contribution from the other party equal to 50% of the amount paid. No liability or expense provision has been recorded by the Company related to this contingent obligation as the Company believes that it is not probable that a loss will occur with respect to CCS Party Guaranties. Consultant Obligation On January 1, 2012 , the Company entered into a residual payment agreement with a former consultant who was involved in the development and deployment of RC technologies. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company was required to make annual payments based upon CCS RC production from January 1, 2012 through June 30, 2015 . These expenses are recorded within the Legal and professional fees line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and are recorded as RC production occurs. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , December 31, 2014 and 2013 , the Company recorded expenses under this agreement of $0.3 million , $1.4 million and $0.6 million , respectively. The Company made the final payment related to this obligation, in the amount of approximately $0.3 million , in January 2016. Line of Credit In September 2013, ADA, as borrower, and ADES, as guarantor, entered into a 2013 Loan and Security Agreement with a bank for an aggregate principal amount of $10 million that is secured by certain amounts due to the Company from certain CCS RC leases (the "Line of Credit"). As amended, the Line of Credit is available until May 31, 2016. Covenants in the Line of Credit include a borrowing base limitation that is based on a percentage of the net present value of ADA’s portion of payments due to CCS from the RC leases. The Line of Credit also contains other affirmative and negative covenants and customary indemnification obligations of ADA to the lender and provides for the issuance of Letters of Credit provided that the aggregate amount of the Letters of Credit plus all advances then outstanding does not exceed the calculated borrowing base. The Company guaranteed the obligations and agreements of ADA under the Line of Credit. Amounts outstanding under the Line of Credit bear interest payable monthly at a rate per annum equal to the higher of 5% or the “Prime Rate” (as defined in the agreement) plus 1% . There were no outstanding balances under this agreement at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. As a result of certain covenant violations, the Company has no borrowing availability under this facility. The Line of Credit has been amended six times (December 2, 2013, April 3, 2014, September 20, 2014, December 15, 2014, May 29, 2015 and September 30, 2015), most notably to extend the maturity date. The lender has also provided seven waivers relating to various transactions and obligations to provide financial information to the lender. Letters of Credit The Company has letters of credit ("LOC") with two financial institutions related to equipment projects, the royalty indemnification and certain other agreements. The following tables summarize the letters of credit outstanding, collateral, by type, and the related line items within the Consolidated Balance Sheets where the collateral related to the letters of credit is recorded: As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) LOC Outstanding Restricted Cash Restricted cash, long-term Investment securities, restricted, long-term Contract performance - equipment systems $ 5,556 $ 728 $ 4,830 $ — Royalty indemnification 6,150 — 6,150 — Other 328 — — 336 Total LOC outstanding $ 12,034 $ 728 $ 10,980 $ 336 As of December 31, 2014 (in thousands) LOC Outstanding Restricted Cash Restricted cash, long-term Investment securities, restricted, long-term Contract performance - equipment systems $ 7,247 $ 2,527 $ 4,721 $ — Royalty indemnification 4,050 — 4,050 — Other 328 — — 336 Total LOC outstanding $ 11,625 $ 2,527 $ 8,771 $ 336 Restricted balances may exceed the letters of credit outstanding due to interest income earned on the restricted balances. The following tables summarizes the expiration periods of the letters of credit, based upon the ultimate maturity date of the letters of credit as of December 31, 2015 : Expiration of Letters of Credit as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Less than 1 year 1-3 years 4-5 years After 5 years Letters of credit $ 728 $ 5,156 $ 6,150 $ — Performance Guarantee on Equipment Systems In the normal course of business related to ACI and DSI systems, the Company may guarantee certain performance thresholds during a discrete performance testing period that do not extend beyond six months from the initial test date, the commencement of which is determined by the customer. Performance thresholds include such matters as the achievement of a certain level of mercury removal and other emissions based upon the injection of a specified quantity of a qualified activated carbon or other chemical at a specified rate given other plant operating conditions, availability of equipment and electric power usage. In the event the equipment fails to perform as specified during the testing period, the Company may have an obligation to correct or replace the equipment. With respect to certain contracts, in the event the level of mercury removal is not achieved, "make right" provisions within the contracts may require the Company to spend additional funds, up to the total value of the contract, to make the necessary modifications and corrections to the equipment, and related systems, in order to meet the mercury removal specification. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had never incurred a performance guarantee claim. If incurred, guarantees would be included within the Equipment sales cost of revenue line of the Consolidated Statements of Operations . During 2015, the Company began working to modify and correct two performance guarantee issues, subject to "make right" provisions, related to EC systems that were installed during 2015. Resolution of these performance guarantees is not expected to result in a material adverse effect on the Company’s operating performance or liquidity in 2016 or beyond. However, the Company will not recognize any revenues related to these two contracts until the performance guarantee issues are resolved. Purchase Obligations The Company does not have any future purchase obligations as of December 31, 2015 . DOE Audits Certain of the Company's completed and current contracts awarded by the DOE and related industry participants remain subject to adjustments as a result of future government audits. The Company's historical experience with these audits has not resulted in significant adverse adjustments to amounts previously received; however the audits for the years 2010 and later have not been finalized. Operating Lease Obligations The Company leases office, warehouse and laboratory space in Highlands Ranch, Colorado under operating leases. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company leased approximately 259 thousand square feet under approximately five leases. Original lease terms ranged from 3 to 7 years. Certain of these leases have options permitting renewals for additional periods. In addition to minimum fixed payments, a number of leases contain annual escalation clauses which are related to increases in the inflation index. Annual minimum commitments under the leases as of December 31, 2015 are as follows: Years Ending December 31, Operating Lease Commitments (in thousands) 2016 $ 1,506 2017 1,298 2018 1,006 2019 102 2020 — Thereafter — Total $ 3,912 Rental expense incurred for the years ended are as follows: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Rent expense $ 1,838 $ 1,531 $ 871

Defined Contributions Savings P

Defined Contributions Savings Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Defined Contributions Savings Plan	Defined Contributions Savings Plan The Company has an employee retirement plan (the "401(k) Plan") that provides eligible employees of the Company an opportunity to accumulate retirement funds. The Company makes matching contributions to the 401(k) Plan in the form of cash and its common stock. The following table presents the amount the Company recognized as expense within the Payroll and benefits line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations : Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 401(K) employer expense $ 439 $ 509 $ 625

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The provision for income taxes consists of the following: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands, except for rate) 2015 2014 2013 Current portion of income tax expense: Federal $ — $ — $ — State 20 296 463 20 296 463 Deferred portion of income tax expense — — — Total income tax expense $ 20 $ 296 $ 463 Effective tax rate — % 18 % (3 )% A reconciliation of expected federal income taxes on income from operations at statutory rates with the expense (benefit) for income taxes is as follows: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Amount Amount Amount Federal statutory rate $ (10,542 ) $ 589 $ (5,435 ) State income taxes, net of federal benefit (781 ) 31 (1,077 ) Disallowed compensation — 721 — Permanent differences 35 52 45 Tax credits (38,998 ) (25,607 ) (14,727 ) Valuation allowances 50,066 23,794 21,843 Changes in state effective rates (243 ) 716 — Share based compensation 487 — — Other (4 ) — (186 ) Expense (Benefit) for the provision for income taxes $ 20 $ 296 $ 463 Deferred income taxes are provided for the effects of temporary differences between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its reported amount in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. These temporary differences result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years. Details of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are summarized as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets Settlements $ 7,807 $ 9,177 Deferred revenues and loss contract provisions 2,899 4,650 Employee related liabilities 4,598 3,643 Intangible assets 1,733 1,070 Equity method investments 7,500 7,507 Net operating loss carryforward 23,193 10,831 Tax credits 97,484 58,486 Deposits on equipment contracts 1,146 2,492 Other 2,118 1,105 Total deferred tax assets 148,478 98,961 Less valuation allowance (148,269 ) (98,203 ) Net deferred tax assets 209 758 Less: Deferred tax liabilities Property and equipment and other (209 ) (758 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (209 ) (758 ) Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ — $ — The Company assesses the available positive and negative evidence to determine if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use the existing deferred tax assets. A significant piece of objective negative evidence evaluated was the cumulative loss incurred over the three-year period ended December 31, 2015 . As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company has recorded a full valuation allowance against the net deferred tax assets of $148.3 million and $98.2 million , respectively, to reflect the estimated amount of deferred tax assets that may not be realized. During 2015 , the Company’s valuation allowance increased by $50.1 million primarily due to increases in tax credits, offset by net decreases in other deferred tax assets. The following table presents the approximate amount of federal and state net operating loss carryforwards and federal tax credit carryforwards available to reduce future taxable income, along with the respective range of years that the net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards would expire if not utilized: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 Beginning expiration year Ending expiration year Federal net operating loss carryforwards $ 59,042 2031 2035 State net operating loss carryforwards $ 62,422 2017 2035 Federal tax credit carryforwards $ 97,484 2031 2035 The Company does not believe it has any significant uncertain tax positions. The Company specifically evaluated whether the installment sale treatment compared to lease treatment for tax purposes at CCS gives rise to an uncertain tax position. As this accounting related to a potential uncertain tax position would result in the Company recording a tax asset, no amount has been recorded. Accordingly, the Company did not record any adjustments or recognize interest expense for uncertain tax positions for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . In the future, if uncertain tax positions arise, interest and penalties will be accrued and included in the Interest expense line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Additionally, the Company does recognize interest expense related to tax treatment of RC facilities at CCS in the Interest expense line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Additional information related to these interest amounts is included in Note 11 . The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. and in various states. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal examinations by tax authorities for years before 2012 . The Company is generally no longer subject to State and local examinations by tax authorities for years before 2011 .

Business Segment Information

Business Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segment Information	Business Segment Information Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by a company's chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), or a decision making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing financial performance. As of December 31, 2015, the Company's CODM was the Company's CEO. The Company's operating and reportable segments are organized by products and services provided. Segments have been reorganized from prior periods due to changes within the Company's management structure and the manner in which the Company is operating the business. All prior periods have been conformed to the current year presentation. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company realigned is operating segments into two reportable segments: (1) Refined Coal ("RC"); and (2) Emissions Control ("EC"). Following the realignment, the Company retroactively adjusted all segment related disclosures included within the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The business segment measurements provided to and evaluated by the CODM are computed in accordance with the principles listed below: • The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies except as described below. • Segment revenues include the Company's equity method earnings and losses from the Company's equity method investments. Segment revenue also includes the Company's royalty earnings from CCS. • Segment operating income (loss) includes the Company's equity method earnings and losses from the Company's equity method investments and royalty earnings from CCS. However, segment operating income (loss) excludes Payroll and benefits , Rent and occupancy , Legal and professional fees , and General and administrative ("Corporate general and administrative expenses"), as well as depreciation and amortization expense, unless otherwise specifically attributable to a segment. • Items not included in consolidated operating income are excluded from segment operating income except for 453A interest and RCM6 interest expense, which is directly attributable to the RC segment. The following table presents the Company's operating segment results for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . All assets are located in the U.S. and all significant customers are U.S. companies. Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenues: Refined Coal: Earnings from equity method investments $ 8,921 $ 42,712 $ 15,502 Consulting services 55 665 1,330 Royalties, related party 10,642 6,410 2,505 19,618 49,787 19,337 Emissions Control: Equipment sales 60,099 12,044 5,747 Consulting services 1,697 3,823 5,460 Chemical and other 888 391 749 62,684 16,258 11,956 Total segment reporting revenues $ 82,302 $ 66,045 $ 31,293 Adjustments to reconcile to reported revenues: Refined Coal: Earnings from equity method investments $ (8,921 ) $ (42,712 ) $ (15,502 ) Royalties, related party (10,642 ) (6,410 ) (2,505 ) (19,563 ) (49,122 ) (18,007 ) Total reported revenues $ 62,739 $ 16,923 $ 13,286 Segment reporting operating income (loss) Refined Coal $ 12,131 $ 42,094 $ 16,227 Emissions Control (7,583 ) (13,348 ) (14,494 ) Total segment operating income (loss) $ 4,548 $ 28,746 $ 1,733 A reconciliation of reportable segment amounts to the Company's consolidated balances is as follows: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Segment income Total reported segment operating income (loss) $ 4,548 $ 28,746 $ 1,733 Adjustments to reconcile to net loss attributable to Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. Corporate payroll and benefits (14,842 ) (12,621 ) (10,898 ) Corporate rent and occupancy (707 ) (694 ) (593 ) Corporate legal and professional fees (15,199 ) (9,514 ) (2,563 ) Corporate general and administrative (3,640 ) (3,980 ) (2,961 ) Corporate depreciation and amortization (578 ) (354 ) (307 ) Interest income 24 74 109 Other income (expense) 273 26 (44 ) Income tax (expense) benefit (20 ) (296 ) (463 ) Net income (loss) $ (30,141 ) $ 1,387 $ (15,987 ) Corporate general and administrative expenses include certain costs that benefit the business as a whole but are not directly related to one of our segments. Such costs include but are not limited to accounting and human resources staff, information systems costs, legal fees, facility costs, audit fees and corporate governance expenses. Segment assets were as follows as of the dates presented: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Assets: Refined Coal $ 19,507 $ 21,322 Emissions Control 31,467 51,891 All Other and Corporate 9,801 20,486 Consolidated $ 60,775 $ 93,699

Major Customers

Major Customers	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Major Customers Disclosure [Abstract]
Major Customers	Major Customers Sales to unaffiliated customers who represent 10% or more of the Company’s sales in any one year were as follows: Years Ended December 31, Customer Revenue Type Segment(s) 2015 2014 2013 A Equipment sales, Consulting services EC 16% 37% 2% B Equipment sales, Consulting services, Other EC 2% 24% —% C Equipment sales EC —% 1% 11% D Consulting services EC 11% 8% 12% E Equipment sales EC —% —% 25% F Equipment sales EC 15% —% —%

Quarterly Financial Results (un

Quarterly Financial Results (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Results (unaudited)	Quarterly Financial Results (unaudited) Summarized quarterly results for the two years ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 , respectively, are as follows: For the Quarter Ended (in thousands, except per share data) December 31, 2015 September 30, 2015 June 30, 2015 March 31, 2015 Revenues $ 13,202 $ 12,885 $ 14,895 $ 21,757 Cost of revenues, exclusive of operating expenses shown below 7,224 10,610 14,003 15,715 Other operating expenses 13,113 12,264 18,670 12,940 Operating loss (7,135 ) (9,989 ) (17,778 ) (6,898 ) Earnings (loss) from equity method investments 3,788 (41 ) 4,860 314 Royalties, related party 2,876 3,273 2,299 2,194 Other income (expenses), net (2,568 ) (1,853 ) (1,765 ) (1,698 ) Income (loss) before income tax expense (3,039 ) (8,610 ) (12,384 ) (6,088 ) Income tax expense (131 ) 44 63 44 Net income (loss) $ (2,908 ) $ (8,654 ) $ (12,447 ) $ (6,132 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – basic $ (0.13 ) $ (0.40 ) $ (0.57 ) $ (0.28 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – diluted $ (0.13 ) $ (0.40 ) $ (0.57 ) $ (0.28 ) Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (1) Basic 21,676 21,687 21,715 21,696 Diluted 21,676 21,687 21,715 21,696 For the Quarter Ended (in thousands, except per share data) December 31, 2014 September 30, 2014 June 30, 2014 March 31, 2014 Revenues $ 3,693 $ 9,072 $ 3,175 $ 983 Cost of revenues, exclusive of operating expenses shown below 2,903 6,512 1,754 451 Other operating expenses 16,335 12,839 9,841 8,102 Operating income (Loss) (15,545 ) (10,279 ) (8,420 ) (7,570 ) Earnings from equity method investments 20,693 5,603 9,791 6,625 Royalties, related party 2,154 2,275 849 1,132 Other income (expenses), net (2,484 ) (1,185 ) (1,199 ) (757 ) Income (loss) before income tax expense 4,818 (3,586 ) 1,021 (570 ) Income tax expense 141 113 29 13 Net income (loss) $ 4,677 $ (3,699 ) $ 992 $ (583 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – basic $ 0.21 $ (0.17 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.03 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – diluted $ 0.21 $ (0.17 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.03 ) Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (1) Basic 21,563 21,536 21,477 21,465 Diluted 21,947 21,536 22,035 21,465 (1) The number of shares and per share amounts have been retroactively restated to reflect the two -for-one stock split of the Company’s common stock, which was effected in the form of a common stock dividend distributed on March 14, 2014.

Reorganization

Reorganization	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Reorganizations [Abstract]
Reorganization	Reorganization At ADA’s 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, its shareholders approved a proposal to reorganize the Company. Effective July 1, 2013, ADES replaced ADA as the publicly-held corporation. As a result of the Reorganization: • Each outstanding share of ADA’s common stock automatically converted into one share of common stock of ADES and the shareholders of ADA became stockholders of ADES on a one -for-one basis, holding the same number of shares in and the same ownership percentage of ADES after the reorganization as they held in and of ADA prior to the reorganization. • ADES’s Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation authorizes the issuance of 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value per share of $0.001 and 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value per share of $0.001 . The additional authorized shares of common stock enable the Company to issue additional common stock to raise capital expeditiously and economically for its ongoing operational needs and could be used for other purposes when the Board of Directors and management believe that such issuance is appropriate. • ADA became a wholly-owned subsidiary of ADES. • All direct subsidiaries of ADA became indirect subsidiaries of ADES. • Each outstanding option to acquire shares of ADA’s common stock became an option to acquire an identical number of shares of ADES’s common stock with substantially the same terms and conditions as before the reorganization. • Each outstanding PSU, which prior to the reorganization represented the right to receive shares of common stock of ADA, became a PSU with the right to receive an identical number of shares of ADES’s common stock with substantially the same terms and conditions as before the reorganization. • The management and business operations of ADA did not change. Certain executive officers of ADA are also executive officers of ADES. We believe this simplified top-level management structure best serves ADES and allows for continued growth. • The publicly traded company became subject to Delaware law. • ADES’s common stock became listed on the NASDAQ under “ADES”, ADA’s previous symbol, and ADA’s stock ceased trading on the NASDAQ. The reorganization into a holding company structure is treated as a merger of entities under common control for accounting purposes. • The primary objectives of the Reorganization into a Delaware holding company structure include: • to better align our corporate structure with our business operations; • to provide us with greater strategic, business and administrative flexibility, which may allow us to acquire or form other businesses, if and when appropriate and feasible, that may be owned and operated by us, but which could be separate from our current businesses; and • to take advantage of the benefits of Delaware corporate law. There was no impact on net income (loss), comprehensive income or earnings per share as a result of the reorganization.

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed F

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information	Note 21 - Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information The unaudited pro forma condensed balance sheet and unaudited pro forma condensed statement of operations (collectively, “unaudited pro forma condensed financial information”) of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. (“ADES” or the “Company”) give effect to the following transaction, the sale of RCM6, LLC ("RCM6") as if it occurred on January 1, 2015 for the pro forma condensed combined statement of operations, and as if it occurred on December 31, 2015 for the pro forma condensed balance sheet: • the Company's disposition, through its wholly-owned subsidiary ADA-RCM6, LLC, of its 24.95% membership interest in RCM6, which the Company accounted for using equity-method accounting, which closed on March 3, 2016 ("RCM6 Disposition") The unaudited pro forma condensed financial information is based on the historical consolidated financial statements of the Company. The pro forma condensed financial information is presented for illustrative purposes only, is based on certain assumptions that we believe are reasonable, and is not necessarily indicative of our financial position or the results of our operations that would have occurred had the RCM6 Disposition been completed as of the dates indicated, nor is it necessarily indicative of our future operating results or financial position. In the opinion of management, all adjustments have been made that are necessary to fairly present the unaudited pro forma condensed financial information. Assumptions and estimates underlying the pro forma adjustments are described in the accompanying notes, which should be read in conjunction with the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information. The information presented in the unaudited pro forma condensed balance sheet as of December 31, 2015 assumes the RCM6 Disposition was completed on that date. The information presented in the unaudited pro forma condensed statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 assumes that the RCM6 Disposition was completed as of January 1, 2015. The actual amounts recorded upon finalization of the accounting for dates subsequent to December 31, 2015 for the balance sheet and January 1, 2015 for the statement of operations may differ materially from the information presented in the accompanying unaudited pro forma condensed financial information. Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) ADES Historical Pro Forma adjustments related to RCM6 Disposition ADES Pro Forma ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 9,265 $ 1,773 A $ 11,038 Receivables, net 8,361 — 8,361 Receivables, related parties, net 1,918 — 1,918 Restricted cash 728 — 728 Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts 2,137 — 2,137 Prepaid expenses and other assets 2,306 — 2,306 Total current assets 24,715 1,773 26,488 Restricted cash, long-term 10,980 — 10,980 Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation 2,040 — 2,040 Investment securities, restricted, long-term 336 — 336 Cost method investment 2,776 — 2,776 Equity method investments 17,232 (13,264 ) B 3,968 Other assets 2,696 — 2,696 Total Assets $ 60,775 $ (11,491 ) $ 49,284 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 6,174 $ — 6,174 Accrued payroll and related liabilities 5,800 — 5,800 Current portion of notes payable, related parties 1,837 (1,207 ) B 630 Short-term borrowings 12,676 — 12,676 Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts 9,708 — 9,708 Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation 6,502 — 6,502 Other current liabilities 6,198 — 6,198 Total current liabilities 48,895 (1,207 ) 47,688 Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties 13,512 (13,023 ) B 489 Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term 13,797 — 13,797 Advance deposit, related party 2,980 — 2,980 Other long-term liabilities 6,569 — 6,569 Total Liabilities 85,753 (14,230 ) 71,523 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders’ deficit: Preferred stock — — — Common stock 22 — 22 Additional paid-in capital 116,029 — 116,029 Accumulated deficit (141,029 ) 2,739 C (138,290 ) Total stockholders’ deficit (24,978 ) 2,739 (22,239 ) Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit $ 60,775 $ (11,491 ) $ 49,284 Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations Year ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands, except per share data) ADES Historical Pro Forma adjustments related to RCM6 Disposition ADES Pro Forma Revenues: Equipment sales $ 60,099 $ — $ 60,099 Consulting services 1,752 — 1,752 Chemicals and other 888 — 888 Total revenues 62,739 — 62,739 Operating expenses: Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization 45,433 — 45,433 Consulting services cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization 1,518 — 1,518 Chemical and other cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization 601 — 601 Payroll and benefits 23,589 — 23,589 Rent and occupancy 3,309 — 3,309 Legal and professional fees 16,604 — 16,604 General and administrative 6,104 — 6,104 Research and development, net 5,362 — 5,362 Depreciation and amortization 2,019 — 2,019 Total operating expenses 104,539 — 104,539 Operating loss (41,800 ) — (41,800 ) Other income (expenses): Earnings from equity method investments 8,921 4,568 D 13,489 Royalties, related party 10,642 — 10,642 Interest income 24 — 24 Interest expense (8,402 ) 2,468 E (5,934 ) Other 494 524 F 1,018 Total other income (expense), net 11,679 7,560 19,239 Income (loss) before income tax expense (30,121 ) 7,560 (22,561 ) Income tax expense 20 — G 20 Net income (loss) $ (30,141 ) $ 7,560 $ (22,581 ) Earnings (loss) per common share: Basic $ (1.37 ) $ (1.04 ) Diluted $ (1.37 ) $ (1.04 ) Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 21,773 21,773 Diluted 21,773 21,773 Pro Forma Note 1 - Basis of Presentation The unaudited pro forma condensed financial information presented is derived from the Company’ s audited financial statements as of and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 included in this Form 10-K. The unaudited pro forma condensed financial information has been prepared to reflect the pro forma impact of the RCM6 Disposition on those financial statements at or as of the dates indicated, and is presented for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of the Company’s financial position or results of operations that would have occurred had the RCM6 Disposition been completed at or as of the dates indicated, nor is it necessarily indicative of our future operating results or financial position. The information presented in the unaudited pro forma condensed balance sheet as of December 31, 2015 assumes the RCM6 Disposition was completed on that date. The information presented in the unaudited pro forma condensed statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 assumes that the RCM6 Disposition was completed as of January 1, 2015. Pro forma adjustments reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed balance sheet are based on items that are directly attributable to the RCM6 Disposition and factually supportable. Pro forma adjustments reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed statement of operations are based on items directly attributable to the RCM6 Disposition, factually supportable and expected to have a continuing impact on ADES. Pro Forma Note 2 - Unaudited Pro Forma Balance Sheet Adjustments Pro Forma Balance Sheet Adjustments : A. Represents the actual cash received by ADES from the buyer upon closing of the RCM6 Disposition. In determining these pro-forma adjustments, the Company has assumed that the consideration received, had the transaction occurred on December 31, 2015, would have also been the actual cash received upon Disposition in the amount of $1.773 million . The actual amount of cash consideration that may have been received by the Company had the closing occurred on December 31, 2015 would likely have been different. Matters potentially impacting the actual amount of consideration received as of the RCM6 Disposition date include capital contributions to RCM6 and payments related to the Company's note payable balance for the acquisition of RCM6, which occurred from January 1, 2016 through the RCM6 Disposition date. B. Represents the removal of the carrying value of the Company’s equity method investment in RCM6 and related assets and liabilities as a result of the RCM6 Disposition. The Company’s equity method investment in RCM6 is discussed within Note 7 . The liabilities removed include short-term and long-term portions of the Company's note payable related to the acquisition of RCM6 membership interests, which are discussed within Note 7 and Note 9 . The note payable was assumed by the buyer as partial consideration for the sale. C. Represents the estimated gain on the sale of RCM6 membership interest that would have been recognized had the RCM6 Disposition occurred as of December 31, 2015. Pro Forma Statement of Operations Adjustments D. Represents the elimination of the losses from the Company's RCM6 equity method investment included within the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. The losses from the Company's investment were discussed within Note 7 . E. Represents the elimination of the interest expense related to the note payable that was assumed by the buyer as partial consideration for the sale. This interest expense was included in total interest expense recognized by the Company for the year ended December 31, 2015, as discussed within Note 11 . F. Represents the estimated gain that the Company would have recognized had the RCM6 Disposition occurred on January 1, 2015. The following table presents the components of the pro forma loss calculation: (in thousands) Cash received upon RCM6 Disposition (1) $ 1,773 Note payable balance - as of January 1, 2015 14,186 Subtotal 15,959 Estimated assets relinquished - as of January 1, 2015 15,435 Estimated pro forma gain for the year ended December 31, 2015 $ 524 (1) Represents the actual cash received by ADES from the buyer upon closing of the RCM6 Disposition. In determining these pro-forma adjustments, the Company has assumed that the consideration received, had the transaction occurred on January 1, 2015, would have also been the cash received upon Disposition in the amount of $1.773 million . The actual amount of cash consideration that may have been received by the Company had the closing occurred on January 1, 2015 would likely have been different. As a result, the estimate of the pre-tax gain or loss as of that date would change in direct correlation to the actual change in cash received. Matters potentially impacting the actual amount of consideration received as of the RCM6 assumed pro-forma disposition date of January 1, 2015 include capital contributions to RCM6 and payments related to the Company's note payable balance for the acquisition of RCM6 which occurred from January 2, 2015 through the RCM6 Disposition date. (2) Based on the purchase price accounting related to the Company's acquisition of RCM6, as described in Note 7 . G. Although the Company earned, directly as a result of its investment in RCM6, tax credits of approximately $5.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2015 and tax benefits due to the RCM6 operating losses, the Company's maintains a full valuation allowance against all of its deferred tax assets; therefore, there are no tax effect adjustments to the pro forma consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events In March 2016, the Company entered into an agreement to settle all amounts outstanding under the DSI Business Owner note payable for a one-time payment of approximately $0.3 million . The Company will recognize a gain on the extinguishment of debt of approximately $0.8 million during the first quarter of 2016. Also in March 2016, the Company entered into an agreement to terminate various lease agreements covering approximately 207 thousand square feet of manufacturing, warehouse and office space located in Pennsylvania. As consideration for terminating the leases, the Company agreed to pay the lessor termination fees of $250 thousand in April 2016 and the same amount in April 2017 . As a result, future minimum commitments under leases and annual rent expense will be reduced by approximately $0.4 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017, respectively. The Company will also record a gain related to the difference between the amount accrued as of the cease use date of December 31, 2015 and the settlement amount during the first quarter of 2016. On March 3, 2016, the Company sold its 24.95% membership interest in RCM6 for a cash payment of approximately $1.8 million and assumption of the outstanding note payable made by the Company in connection with its purchase of RCM6 membership interests from CCS in February 2014. As a result of the sale, the Company is no longer a member of RCM6 and is no longer subject to any quarterly capital calls and variable payments to RCM6. However, the Company will still be positively impacted by the RCM6 RC facility in that it will receive its pro-rata share of income and cash distributions through its ownership in CCS. The income and cash distribution will be generated from the RCM6 RC facility lease payments made to CCS. On February 8, 2016, the Company entered into the first amendment to the Credit Agreement ("First Amendment") that extended the SEC filings date to March 30, 2016. On March 30, 2016, the Company entered into the second amendment to the Credit Agreement ("Second Amendment"). The Second Amendment extended the maturity date to July 8, 2016, extended the Company's filing date deadline related to its 2015 SEC filings to April 20, 2016, increased the stated interest rate from 10.5% to 15.0% and increased the minimum cash balance requirement from $3.0 million to $3.5 million . The Company incurred approximately $0.6 million in fees related to the Second Amendment. In April 2016, the Company initiated a workforce reduction plan affecting approximately 30% of the Company’s employees ("Restructuring"). In connection with these actions, the Company currently expects to record aggregate charges with respect to severance payments, benefits continuation and vesting of certain equity awards that are estimated to be approximately $0.6 million - $0.9 million and are expected to be recorded during the second and third quarters of 2016. Cash expenditures related to the Restructuring are expected to be approximately $0.6 million - $0.9 million .

Summary of Operations and Sig29

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	The Consolidated Financial Statements include accounts of wholly owned subsidiaries. All investments in partially owned entities for which the Company has greater-than-20% ownership are accounted for using the equity method based on the legal form of the Company's ownership percentage and the applicable ownership percentage of the entity and are included in the Equity method investments line item in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets . In situations where an investment in a partially owned entity has been determined to be a variable interest entity ("VIE") and the Company is deemed to be the primary beneficiary in accordance with the variable interest model of consolidation, the Company will consolidate the investment into its financial statements. No VIEs were consolidated by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , there were no greater-than-50%-owned affiliates whose financial statements were not consolidated. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include bank deposits and other highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. Restricted Cash Restricted cash primarily consists of funds withheld to provide collateral support for certain Letters of Credit that had been issued to i) customers related to certain contractual performance and payment guarantees, and ii) certain settlement parties to provide security for continuing royalty indemnification payments related to the settlement of certain litigation. Upon covenant non-compliance in 2014, the Company was required to secure such letters of credit with 100% cash collateral.
Receivables and Credit Policies	Accounts receivable balances are uncollateralized customer obligations due under normal trade terms requiring payment typically within 30 - 45 days from the invoice date and are stated net of allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company records allowances for doubtful accounts when it is probable that the accounts receivable balances will not be collected. Notes receivable are reported at their outstanding principal balances, adjusted for any amounts determined to be uncollectible. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company recorded impairment charges related to a Note Receivable of $0.5 million , $0.5 million and zero , respectively, related to the write-off of a specific account whose ultimate collection was in doubt. Interest income is accrued and credited to income based on the unpaid principal balance outstanding. The accrual of interest is discontinued when substantial doubt exists about the ability to collect principal and interest based upon the contractual terms. Notes receivable are included within the Other assets line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets .
Inventory	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market and consist principally of parts, components and materials for activated carbon injection ("ACI") and dry sorbent injection ("DSI") projects. The cost of inventory is determined using the first-in-first-out ("FIFO") method. Inventories are included within the Other assets line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets .
Other Intangible Assets	Other Intangible assets consist of patents and licensed technology and are included in the Other assets line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . The Company has developed technologies resulting in patents being granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. All research and development costs associated with the technology development are expensed as incurred. Legal costs associated with securing the patent are capitalized and amortized over the legal or useful life beginning on the patent filing date.
Investment Securities	Investment securities represent certificates of deposits with original maturities greater than 90 days. Investment securities pledged as security for letters of credit, in the same amount as the investments, are classified as restricted in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and are carried at fair value. Investments in partially-owned subsidiaries for which the Company has less-than-20% ownership are accounted for using the cost method. Cost method investments are evaluated for impairment upon an indicator of impairment such as an event or change in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment. If no such events or changes in circumstances have occurred, the fair value is estimated only if practicable to do so.
Equity method of accounting	The investments in entities in which the Company does not have a controlling interest (financial or operating), but where it has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies, are accounted for using equity-method accounting. Whether or not the Company exercises significant influence with respect to an investee depends on an evaluation of several factors including, among others, representation on the investee company’s board of directors and ownership level. Under the equity method of accounting, an investee company’s accounts are not reflected within the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations ; however, the Company’s share of the earnings or losses of the investee company is reflected in the Earnings from equity method investments line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations . The Company’s carrying value in an equity method investee company is reflected in the Equity method investments line in the Consolidated Balance Sheets . When the Company receives distributions in excess of the carrying value of the investment and the Company has not guaranteed any obligations of the investee, nor is it required to provide additional funding to the investee, the Company recognizes such excess distributions as equity method earnings in the period the distributions occur. When the investee subsequently reports income, the Company does not record its share of such income until it equals the amount of distributions in excess of carrying value that were previously recognized in income. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company had no such guarantees or requirements to provide additional funding. Additionally, when the Company's carrying value in an equity method investment is zero and the Company has not guaranteed any obligations of the investee, nor is it required to provide additional funding to the investee, the Company will not recognize its share of any reported losses by the investee until future earnings are generated to offset previously unrecognized losses. As a result, equity income or loss reported on the Company's income statement for certain equity method investment entities may differ from a mathematical calculation of net income or loss attributable to our equity interest based upon the factor of our equity interest and the net income or loss attributable to equity owners as shown on investee companies' income statements. Likewise, distributions from equity method investees are reported on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as “return on investment” within Operating cash flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero; thereafter, such distributions are reported as “distributions in excess of cumulative earnings” within Investing cash flows. See Note 7 for additional information regarding the Company's equity method investments.
Royalties, related party	The Company realizes royalties from licensing its M-45 TM and M-45-PC TM emission control technologies to CCS. Royalties are earned based upon (i) a percentage of the per-ton, pre-tax margin of Refined Coal ("RC") produced with the M-45 License that produces a valid and verifiable Section 45 Tax Credit, net of certain allocable operating expenses, (ii) a percentage of the Section 45 tax credits claimed, and not invested by a licensee, sublicensee, or licensee affiliate using the M-45 License, net of certain allocable operating expenses and (iii) a percentage of the revenue, net of all direct expenses, received by CCS as a direct result of CCS's exercise of the M-45 License.
Property and Equipment	Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and includes leasehold improvements. Depreciation on assets is computed using the straight-line method over the lesser of the estimated useful lives of the related assets or the lease term (ranging from 2 to 10 years). Maintenance and repairs which do not extend the useful life of the respective asset are charged to Operating expenses as incurred. When assets are retired, or otherwise disposed of, the property accounts are relieved of costs and accumulated depreciation and any resulting gain or loss is credited or charged to income. The Company performs an evaluation of the recoverability of the carrying value of its long-lived assets to determine if facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of assets may be impaired and if any adjustment is warranted.
Revenue Recognition	The Company recognizes revenue when: (i) persuasive evidence of a customer arrangement exists; (ii) the price is fixed or determinable; (iii) collectability is reasonable assured; and (iv) product delivery has occurred or services have been rendered and it is probable that performance guarantees, if any, will be met. Equipment sales The Company enters into contracts that require, over a period of months, the design and construction of emissions control systems ("extended equipment contracts"). Revenue from such extended equipment contracts is recorded using the percentage of completion cost to cost method based on costs incurred to date compared with total estimated contract costs. However, if the Company does not have sufficient information to estimate either costs incurred or total estimated costs for extended equipment contracts, the completed contract method is used. Under the completed contract method, revenues and costs from extended equipment contracts are deferred and recognized when contract obligations are substantially complete. The Company defines substantially complete as delivery of equipment and start-up at the customer site or, as applicable to DSI systems, the completion of any major warranty service period. Such costs are accumulated in the Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts or Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts line items in the Consolidated Balance Sheets , and typically include direct materials, direct labor and subcontractor costs, and indirect costs related to contract performance, such as indirect labor, supplies, tools and repairs. For each of the years ended 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company did not have sufficient information to measure ongoing performance for its extended equipment contracts. Accordingly, the completed contract method of revenue recognition has been used for each of these years and revenues and costs are deferred until the equipment is placed into service and contract obligations are substantially complete. When multiple contracts exist with a single counterparty, the Company evaluates revenue recognition on a contract-by-contract basis. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts are recognized when it has been determined that a loss is probable. The Company also enters into other non-extended equipment contracts for which the Company recognizes revenues on time and material contracts as services to build equipment systems are performed or as equipment is delivered. Consulting services The Company recognizes revenue on time and material contracts as services are performed. Chemicals and other sales Revenues for direct sales of chemicals and other ancillary products not provided in the performance of construction of emissions control systems (extended equipment sales) are recognized at the date of delivery to, and acceptance by the customer.
Cost of Revenues	Costs of revenues include all labor, fringe benefits, subcontract labor, chemical and coal costs, materials, equipment, supplies, travel costs and any other costs and expenses directly related to the Company’s production of revenue.
Warranty Costs	Additionally, warranty costs for ACI equipment systems are estimated based on historical experience and are recorded as a percentage of revenue when the equipment is substantially complete. Warranty costs, comprised of the cost of replacement materials and direct labor, are included within the Equipment sales cost of revenue line of the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Warranty costs for DSI equipment systems cannot be estimated due to a lack of historical experience manufacturing DSI systems and the resulting claims history, if any, needed to determine an appropriate warranty amount. Therefore, revenue recognition has been deferred until the end of the warranty period, generally 12 to 24 months following substantial completion. As warranty claims are incurred, such costs are deferred within the Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts line item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets , until such time that revenue and cost of revenues are recognized.
Expenses	Payroll and Benefits Payroll and benefits costs include direct payroll, personnel related fringe benefits, sales and administrative staff labor costs and stock compensation expense. Payroll and benefits costs exclude direct labor included in Costs of revenues. Rent and Occupancy Rent and occupancy costs include rent, insurance, and other occupancy-related expenses. Legal and Professional Legal and professional costs include external legal, audit and consulting expenses. General and Administrative General and administrative costs include director fees and expenses, bad debt expense, impairments and other general costs of conducting business.
Research and Development Costs	Research and development costs are charged to operations in the period incurred. The Company has entered into development and cost-sharing contracts with the Department of Energy (the "DOE"). These contracts are best-effort-basis contracts and the Company generally includes industry cost-share partners to offset the costs incurred that are anticipated to be in excess of funded amounts from the DOE. The Company accounts for these contracts with the DOE and industry cost-share partners in accordance with accounting guidance whereby the Company recognizes amounts funded by the DOE under research-and-development-cost-sharing arrangements as an offset to the Company's aggregate research and development expense with the Research and development, net line in the Consolidated Statements of Operations .
Asset Retirement Obligations	The Company's asset retirement obligation, or ARO liability consists of estimated costs to remove equipment and reclaim the land associated with one research and development project. The Company estimates its ARO liability for final reclamation based upon bids obtained from independent third parties and other exit alternatives, escalation for inflation, and then discounted at a credit-adjusted risk-free rate. Changes in estimates could occur due to revisions of estimated costs and changes in timing and performance of the reclamation activities.
Income Taxes	The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on the basis of the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company recognizes deferred tax assets to the extent that it believes these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby (1) the Company determines whether it is more-likely-than-not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position and (2) for those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the Company recognizes the amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. The Company records interest expense due to the Company's share of CCS equity method earnings for RC facility leases which are treated as installment sales for tax purposes. IRS section 453A requires taxpayers using the installment method to pay an interest charge on the portion of the tax liability that was deferred under the installment method. The Company recognizes IRS section 453A interest ("453A interest") and other interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the Interest expense line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations .
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-based compensation expense is measured at the grant date and expensed on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. An estimate of forfeitures is applied when calculating compensation expense. These costs are recorded in the Payroll and benefits line item in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations .
Earnings (Loss) Per Share	The Company computes earnings (loss) per share in accordance with FASB ASC 260-10. Under this guidance, unvested restricted stock awards ("RSA's") that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are deemed to be participating securities and, therefore, are included in computing basic earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. The two-class method determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating securities according to dividends or dividend equivalents and their respective participation rights in undistributed earnings (losses). The Company did not declare any cash dividends during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 or 2013 . Under the two-class method, net income (loss) for the period is allocated between common stockholders and the holders of the participating securities, in this case, the weighted-average number of unvested restricted stock awards outstanding during the period. The allocated, undistributed income (loss) for the period is then divided by the weighted-average number of common shares and participating securities outstanding during the period to arrive at basic earnings (loss) per common share or participating security for the period, respectively. Because the Company did not declare any dividends during the periods presented, and because the unvested RSA's possess substantially the same rights to undistributed earnings as common shares outstanding, there is no difference between the calculated basic earnings (loss) per share for common shares and participating securities. Accordingly, and pursuant to generally accepted accounting standards, the Company has elected not to separately present basic or diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to participating securities on its Consolidated Statements of Operations. Diluted earnings (loss) per share takes into consideration shares of common stock and unvested RSA's outstanding (computed under basic earnings (loss) per share) and potentially dilutive shares of common stock. Potentially dilutive shares consist of vested, in-the-money outstanding options and contingent PSU's ("Potential dilutive shares"). When there is a loss from continuing operations, all potentially dilutive shares become anti-dilutive and are thus excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share. Each PSU represents a contingent right to receive shares of the Company’s common stock, that may range from zero to two times the number of PSU's granted on the award date, depending upon the price performance of the Company's common stock as measured against a general index and a specific peer group index over requisite performance periods. The number of potentially dilutive shares related to PSU's is based on the number of shares, if any, that would be issuable at the end of the respective reporting period, assuming that the end of the reporting period was the end of the contingency period applicable to such PSU's. See Note 13 for additional information related to PSU's. No Potential Dilutive Shares were included in the calculations for the years ended December 31, 2015 or 2013 , as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive due to the Company’s net loss per share for those periods. On March 14, 2014, the Company completed a two-for-one stock split of the Company’s common stock, which was effected in the form of a common stock dividend. All periods reflect the per-share impact of the two -for-one stock split.
Use of Estimates	The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the Company’s management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in these financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The Company makes significant assumptions concerning: • Revenue recognition, warranty estimates and performance guarantee accruals related to the Company's extended equipment contracts; • the impairment, or lack thereof, of the remaining realizability of, its long-lived assets including equity method investments; • stock compensation costs related to performance share unit awards; • estimated future royalty obligations associated with our settlement and royalty indemnification accrual and other legal accruals; and • the deferred tax assets expected to be realized in future periods and uncertain tax positions.
Reclassifications	Certain balances have been reclassified from prior years to conform to current year presentation.
New Accounting Guidance	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue Recognition (Topic 606): Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("ASU 2014-09"). This new standard provides accounting guidance for all revenue arising from contracts with customers and affects all entities that enter into contracts to provide goods or services to their customers (unless the contracts are in the scope of other US GAAP requirements). The guidance also provides a model for the measurement and recognition of gains and losses on the sale of certain nonfinancial assets, such as property and equipment, including real estate. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date , which defers the effective date of the guidance in ASU 2014-09 by one year. ASU 2014-09 is now effective for fiscal years, and interim reporting periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early application is permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Company has not yet selected a transition method nor has it determined the effect of the standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (Topic 205-40), Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entities Ability to Continue as a Going Concern that requires management to evaluate whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the entity’s financial statements are issued, or within one year after the date the entity’s financial statements are available to be issued, and to provide disclosures when certain criteria are met. This guidance is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing its impact on the Company’s financial statements and disclosures. In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810), Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis that meant to clarify the consolidation reporting guidance in GAAP. This guidance is to be applied using a retrospective method or a modified retrospective method, as outlined in the guidance, and is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early application is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating this guidance but does not believe the adoption of this standard will impact the Company's financial statements and disclosures. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs , which requires an entity to present debt issuance costs related to a debt liability as a direct deduction from the debt liability rather than as an asset. ASU 2015-03 is effective retrospectively for fiscal years, and interim reporting periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted for financial statements that have not been previously issued. The adoption of this standard impacted the presentation of certain financial statement line items within the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and related disclosures, but did not affect the Company’s consolidated results of operations. In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Simplifying the Accounting Measurement-Period Adjustments , which eliminates the requirement for an entity to retrospectively adjust the financial statements for measurement-period adjustments that occur in periods after a business combination is completed. ASU 2015-16 is effective prospectively for fiscal years, and interim reporting periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this standard will not have an impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations. In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes , to simplify the presentation of deferred income taxes. The amendments in ASU 2015-17 require that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as non-current in a classified statement of financial position. The current requirement that deferred tax liabilities and assets of a tax-paying component of an entity be offset and presented as a single amount is not affected by the amendments in the update. ASU 2015-17 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years, and may be applied either prospectively to all deferred tax liabilities and assets or retrospectively to all periods presented. The adoption of this standard will not have an impact on the Company's financial position. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities . This new standard provides guidance on how entities measure certain equity investments and present changes in the fair value. This standard requires that entities measure certain equity investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method at fair value and recognize any changes in fair value in net income. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing its impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which requires lessees to recognize a right of use asset and related lease liability for those leases classified as operating leases at the commencement date and have lease terms of more than 12 months. This topic retains the distinction between finance leases and operating leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, and must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing its impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-06, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), which requires that embedded derivatives be separated from the host contract and accounted for separately as derivatives if certain criteria are met, including the “clearly and closely related” criterion. The amendments in this Update clarify the requirements for assessing whether contingent call (put) options that can accelerate the payment of principal on debt instruments are clearly and closely related to their debt hosts. An entity performing the assessment under the amendments is required to assess the embedded call (put) options solely in accordance with the four-step decision sequence. The amendments apply to all entities that are issuers of or investors in debt instruments (or hybrid financial instruments that are determined to have a debt host) with embedded call (put) options. ASU 2016-06 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years, and must apply a modified retrospective transition approach. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing its impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-07, Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), which simplifies the accounting for equity method investments by removing the requirement that an entity retroactively adopt the equity method of accounting if an investment qualifies for use of the equity method as a result of an increase in the level of ownership or degree of influence. The amendments require that the equity method investor add the cost of acquiring the additional interest in the investee to the current basis of the investor’s previously held interest and adopt the equity method of accounting as of the date the investment becomes qualified for equity method accounting. ASU 2016-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years, and must apply a prospective adoption approach. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing its impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net), which clarify the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations. ASU 2016-08 is effective for effective for fiscal years, and interim reporting periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early application is permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing its impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation- Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (Topic 718), which involves several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. Under the new standard, income tax benefits and deficiencies are to be recognized as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement and the tax effects of exercised or vested awards should be treated as discrete items in the reporting period in which they occur. An entity should also recognize excess tax benefits regardless of whether the benefit reduces taxes payable in the current period. Excess tax benefits should be classified along with other income tax cash flows as an operating activity. In regards to forfeitures, the entity may make an entity-wide accounting policy election to either estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest or account for forfeitures when they occur. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 including interim periods within that reporting period, however early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the guidance to determine the Company's adoption method and the effect it will have on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	The estimated fair value of certificates of deposit investments securities were estimated to be equal to the deposit value of the investment due to the market interest rates and relative short term nature of the instrument. The Company's experience with these types of investments and the expectations of the current investments held is that they will be satisfied at the current carrying amount. These securities were classified as Level 2. The carrying amounts of financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, deposits and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The estimated fair values of investment securities are described below. Refer to Note 4 of these Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the Company’s investment securities. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. The Company uses the hierarchy prescribed in the accounting guidance for fair value measurements, based upon the available inputs to the valuation and the degree to which they are observable or not observable in the market. The three levels in the hierarchy are as follows: • Level 1 Inputs - Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that are accessible as of the measurement date. • Level 2 Inputs - Inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable either directly or indirectly, including but not limited to quoted prices in markets that are not active, quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities and observable inputs other than quoted prices such as interest rates or yield curves. • Level 3 Inputs - Unobservable inputs reflecting the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of credit risk The Company's certificates of deposit investment securities are at two financial institutions. If those institutions were to be unable to perform their obligations, the Company would be at risk regarding the amount of investment in excess of the federal deposit insurance corporation limits ( $250 thousand ) that would be returned to the Company.
Segment Reporting	Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by a company's chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), or a decision making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing financial performance. As of December 31, 2015, the Company's CODM was the Company's CEO. The Company's operating and reportable segments are organized by products and services provided. Segments have been reorganized from prior periods due to changes within the Company's management structure and the manner in which the Company is operating the business. All prior periods have been conformed to the current year presentation. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company realigned is operating segments into two reportable segments: (1) Refined Coal ("RC"); and (2) Emissions Control ("EC"). Following the realignment, the Company retroactively adjusted all segment related disclosures included within the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The business segment measurements provided to and evaluated by the CODM are computed in accordance with the principles listed below: • The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies except as described below. • Segment revenues include the Company's equity method earnings and losses from the Company's equity method investments. Segment revenue also includes the Company's royalty earnings from CCS. • Segment operating income (loss) includes the Company's equity method earnings and losses from the Company's equity method investments and royalty earnings from CCS. However, segment operating income (loss) excludes Payroll and benefits , Rent and occupancy , Legal and professional fees , and General and administrative ("Corporate general and administrative expenses"), as well as depreciation and amortization expense, unless otherwise specifically attributable to a segment. • Items not included in consolidated operating income are excluded from segment operating income except for 453A interest and RCM6 interest expense, which is directly attributable to the RC segment. Corporate general and administrative expenses include certain costs that benefit the business as a whole but are not directly related to one of our segments. Such costs include but are not limited to accounting and human resources staff, information systems costs, legal fees, facility costs, audit fees and corporate governance expenses.

Summary of Operations and Sig30

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Receivables	The following tables show the receivables balances: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Receivables $ 8,518 $ 16,609 Less allowance for doubtful accounts (157 ) (15 ) Total $ 8,361 $ 16,594 As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Receivables, related parties $ 1,918 $ 1,439 Total $ 1,918 $ 1,439
Schedule of Intangible Assets	Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 (in thousands, except years) Weighted-Average Amortization Period (in years) Initial Cost Net of Accumulated Amortization Initial Cost Net of Accumulated Amortization Patents 20 $ 742 $ 581 $ 635 $ 523 Licensed technology 10 1,525 1,360 1,525 1,512 Total 12.9 $ 2,267 $ 1,941 $ 2,160 $ 2,035
Schedule of Warranty Obligations	The changes in the carrying amount of the Company’s warranty obligations, which do not include amounts for DSI systems as revenues are deferred until the end of the warranty period, are as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Beginning balance $ 152 $ 62 Warranties accrued, net 1,337 90 Warranty claims (292 ) — Ending balance $ 1,197 $ 152
Calculations of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share	The following table sets forth the calculations of basic and diluted earnings (losses) per common share: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 2014 2013 Net income (loss) $ (30,141 ) $ 1,387 $ (15,987 ) Less: Undistributed income (loss) allocated to participating securities (275 ) 18 (220 ) Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders $ (29,866 ) $ 1,369 $ (15,767 ) Basic weighted-average number of common shares outstanding 21,773 21,554 20,103 Add: dilutive effect of equity instruments — 525 — Diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding 21,773 22,079 20,103 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ (1.37 ) $ 0.06 $ (0.78 ) Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ (1.37 ) $ 0.06 $ (0.78 )
Schedule of Anti-dilutive Equity Instruments	The table below presents the number of shares that were excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive to the calculation: Years Ended December 31, (share data in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Stock options 10 — 249 Restricted stock awards 163 — 250 Performance share units 182 — 33 Total shares excluded from diluted shares outstanding 355 — 532

Restructuring (Tables)

Restructuring (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Costs	A summary of the net pretax charges, incurred by segment is as follows: Pretax Charge (in thousands, except employee data) Approximate Number of Employees Refined Coal Emissions Control All Other and Corporate Total Year ended December 31, 2015 Restructuring charges 162 — 5,108 5,264 10,372 Changes in estimates — (10 ) (2 ) (12 ) Total pretax charge, net of reversals — 5,098 5,262 10,360 Year ended December 31, 2014 Restructuring charges 29 — 1,294 2,209 3,503 Total pretax charge, net of reversals — 1,294 2,209 3,503 Year ended December 31, 2013 Restructuring charges 1 — — 60 60 Total pretax charge, net of reversals — — 60 60
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost	The following table summarizes the Company's utilization of restructuring accruals for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 : (in thousands) Employee Severance Business Operations Closure Beginning accrual as of January 1, 2013 $ — $ — Expense provision (1) 60 — Cash payments and other (1) (31 ) — Change in estimates — — Accrual as of December 31, 2013 29 — Expense provision (1) 3,503 — Cash payments and other (1) (1,842 ) — Change in estimates — — Accrual as of December 31, 2014 1,690 — Expense provision (1) 8,498 2,650 Cash payments and other (1) (7,595 ) (1,873 ) Change in estimates (12 ) — Accrual as of December 31, 2015 $ 2,581 $ 777 (1) Included within the Expense provision and Cash payments and other line items in the above table is equity based compensation of $3.4 million , $1.0 million and zero for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively, resulting from the accelerated vesting of modified equity-based compensation awards for certain terminated employees. Additionally, as discussed in Note 8 , due to restructuring activities the Company fully impaired the carrying value of certain assets, thereby recognizing net impairment expense in the amount of $1.9 million during the third quarter of 2015.

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	The carrying basis and accumulated depreciation of property and equipment at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are: Life in Years As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Machinery and equipment 3-10 $ 3,498 $ 7,194 Leasehold improvements 3-7 2,172 2,198 Furniture and fixtures 3-7 927 1,340 6,597 10,732 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (4,557 ) (5,924 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 2,040 $ 4,808

Costs and Billings on Uncompl33

Costs and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Costs and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts [Abstract]
Schedule of Deferred Project Costs and Revenue	The below table shows the components of these items. As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts (gross) $ 72,581 $ 79,108 Billings on uncompleted contracts (gross) (80,152 ) (95,473 ) $ (7,571 ) $ (16,365 ) Included in the accompanying balance sheets under the following captions (1) : Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts $ 2,137 $ 6,153 Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts (9,708 ) (22,518 ) $ (7,571 ) $ (16,365 ) (1) Amounts presented after netting of costs and billings on an individual contract basis.

Research and Development and 34

Research and Development and Government and Industry Funded Contracts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Government and Industry Funded Contracts [Abstract]
Schedule of Government and Industry Funded Contracts	The following table shows the impact to Research and development expense amounts recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Operations: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Research and development expense $ 6,737 $ 3,554 $ 13,054 Less: DOE funding 1,375 1,756 9,400 Industry cost-share funding — 277 417 Net research and development expense $ 5,362 $ 1,521 $ 3,237

Equity Method Investments (Tabl

Equity Method Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments	The following table details the components of the Company's respective earnings or loss from equity method investments included within the Earnings from equity method investments line item on the Consolidated Statements of Operations : Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Earnings from CCS $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813 Earnings from CCSS 4,838 3,625 1,689 Loss from RCM6 (4,568 ) (4,497 ) — Earnings from equity method investments $ 8,921 $ 42,712 $ 15,502 The following table details the components of additional cash investments related to the Company's respective equity method investments included within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows : Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Purchase of RCM6 interest from CCS $ — $ 3,153 $ — Contributions to RCM6 2,398 3,478 — Purchase of and contributions to equity method investments $ 2,398 $ 6,631 $ — The following table details the components of the cash distributions from the Company's respective equity method investments included within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows . Distributions from equity method investees are reported on our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as “return on investment” within Operating cash flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero; thereafter, such distributions are reported as “distributions in excess of cumulative earnings” within Investing cash flows. Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment CCSS $ 5,019 $ 2,509 $ 5 Included in Operating Cash Flows $ 5,019 $ 2,509 $ 5 Distributions from equity method investees in excess of cumulative earnings CCS $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813 Included in Investing Cash Flows $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813 The following tables summarize the assets, liabilities and results of operations of CCS: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Current assets $ 41,099 $ 28,701 Non-current assets $ 90,509 $ 52,983 Current liabilities $ 60,987 $ 70,927 Non-current liabilities $ 9,434 $ 22,737 Redeemable Class B equity $ 30,449 $ 45,522 Members deficit attributable to Class A members $ 25,175 $ (63,027 ) Noncontrolling interests $ 5,563 $ 5,525 Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross margin $ 108,416 $ 89,099 $ 50,941 Operating expenses 23,405 21,502 17,462 Income from operations 85,011 67,597 33,479 Other expenses (2,203 ) (1,830 ) (527 ) Redeemable Class B preferred return (6,157 ) (8,707 ) (10,189 ) Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 10,675 11,023 — Net income available to Class A members $ 87,326 $ 68,083 $ 22,763 ADES equity earnings from CCS $ 8,651 $ 43,584 $ 13,813 The following tables summarize the assets, liabilities and results of operations of RCM6: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Current assets $ 12,240 $ 11,566 Non-current assets $ 2,472 $ 2,608 Current liabilities $ 1,489 $ 1,534 Non-current liabilities $ 7,649 $ 7,105 Equity $ 5,574 $ 5,535 Year ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Gross margin (loss) $ (7,877 ) $ (8,257 ) Operating expenses 2,178 2,123 Loss from operations (10,055 ) (10,380 ) Other expenses (641 ) (666 ) Net loss $ (10,696 ) $ (11,046 ) ADES equity loss from RCM6 $ (4,568 ) $ (4,497 ) The following tables summarize the assets, liabilities and results of operations of CCSS: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Current assets $ 186,959 $ 215,944 Non-current assets $ 3,704 $ 12,623 Current liabilities $ 92,675 $ 127,858 Non-current liabilities $ 1,366 $ 1,214 Equity $ 7,936 $ 8,298 Noncontrolling interests $ 88,686 $ 91,197 Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross margin (loss) $ (42,496 ) $ (22,168 ) $ (11,055 ) Operating expenses 161,456 102,757 63,247 Loss from operations (203,952 ) (124,925 ) (74,302 ) Other expenses (118 ) (62 ) (134 ) Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 213,746 132,237 77,814 Net income $ 9,676 $ 7,250 $ 3,378 ADES equity earnings from CCSS $ 4,838 $ 3,625 $ 1,689 The following table details the carrying value of the Company's respective equity method investments included within the Equity method investments line item on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and indicates the Company's maximum exposure to loss: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Equity method investment in CCS $ — $ — Equity method investment in CCSS 3,968 4,149 Equity method investment in RCM6 13,264 15,435 Total equity method investments $ 17,232 $ 19,584 The following table shows the Company's investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions in excess of the investment balance for the years ended December 31, 2013 through December 31, 2015 ( in thousands ). Description Date(s) Investment balance ADES equity earnings (loss) Cash distributions Memo Account: Cash distributions and equity loss in (excess) of investment balance Beginning balance 12/31/2012 $ — $ — $ — $ (8,003 ) ADES proportionate share of income from CCS (1) 2013 activity 8,910 8,910 — — Increase of equity loss in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions) 2013 activity (8,003 ) (8,003 ) — 8,003 Current year cash distributions from CCS 2013 activity (13,813 ) — 13,813 — Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance 2013 activity 12,906 12,906 — (12,906 ) Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions 12/31/2013 $ — $ 13,813 $ 13,813 $ (12,906 ) ADES proportionate share of income from CCS (1) 2014 activity $ 26,613 $ 26,613 $ — $ — Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions) 2014 activity (12,906 ) (12,906 ) — 12,906 Current year cash distributions from CCS 2014 activity (43,584 ) — 43,584 — Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance 2014 activity 29,877 29,877 — (29,877 ) Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions 12/31/2014 $ — $ 43,584 $ 43,584 $ (29,877 ) ADES proportionate share of income from CCS (1) 2015 activity $ 35,265 $ 35,265 $ — $ — Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions) 2015 activity (29,877 ) (29,877 ) — 29,877 Current year cash distributions from CCS 2015 activity (8,651 ) — 8,651 — Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance 2015 activity 3,263 3,263 — (3,263 ) Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions 12/31/2015 $ — $ 8,651 $ 8,651 $ (3,263 ) (1) The amounts of the Company's 42.5% proportionate share of net income as shown in the table above differ from mathematical calculations of the Company’s 42.5% equity interest in CCS multiplied by the amounts of Net Income available to Class A members as shown in the table above of CCS results of operations due to adjustments related to the Redeemable Class B preferred return and the elimination of CCS earnings attributable to RCM6, of which the Company owned 24.95% during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Summary of Purchase Consideration and Allocation	A summary of the purchase consideration and allocation of the purchase consideration is as follows: (in thousands) Purchase consideration: Cash paid $ 2,360 Fair value of liabilities assumed: Accrued liabilities 10 Contingent consideration 451 Total fair value of liabilities assumed 461 Total purchase consideration $ 2,821 Allocation of purchase consideration Receivables $ 360 Property and equipment and other 82 Intangibles - in process research and development 2,379 Total $ 2,821

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions	The following table shows the other income associated with related parties, recognized by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Royalties, related party - CCS $ 10,642 $ 6,410 $ 2,505 Interest income, related party - CCS — — 40 Interest income, related party - CCSS — — 29 $ 10,642 $ 6,410 $ 2,574 The following table summarizes the Company's notes payable (net of debt discount and issuance costs) classified according to payment terms, all of which are with related parties, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) Related Party 2015 2014 Short-term note payable Credit Agreement, net of discount Franklin Mutual $ 12,676 $ — Total Short-term borrowings 12,676 — Current portion of long-term borrowings RCM6 note payable, net of discount CCS 1,207 874 DSI Business Owner note payable DSI Business Owner 630 605 Total Current portion of long-term borrowings 1,837 1,479 Total Short-term and current portion of long-term borrowings 14,513 1,479 Long-term borrowings RCM6 note payable, net of discount CCS 13,023 13,312 DSI Business Owner note payable DSI Business Owner 489 1,119 Total Long-term borrowings 13,512 14,431 Total Borrowings $ 28,025 $ 15,910 The following table shows the Company's remaining advanced deposit balance, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Advance deposit from related party - CCS $ 2,981 $ 6,524 The following table shows the Company's payable balance associated with related parties, exclusive of amounts owed to employees and directors in the normal course of business, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Payable to related party - RCM6 $ 270 $ — The following table shows the Company's receivable balance associated with related parties, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Receivable from related party - CCS $ 1,918 $ 1,439 The following table shows the revenues associated with related parties, recognized by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenues from related party - CCS $ 55 $ 665 $ 1,330
Notes Payable Maturity	The following table presents the future aggregate annual total borrowing amounts due, excluding unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, as of December 31, 2015 , after giving effect to the RCM6 transaction and the DSI Business Owner agreement which occurred during the first quarter of 2016, discussed above: Years Ending December 31, Amount ( in thousands ) 2016 $ 13,500 2017 — 2018 — 2019 — 2020 — Thereafter — Total $ 13,500 The following tables summarizes the expiration periods of the letters of credit, based upon the ultimate maturity date of the letters of credit as of December 31, 2015 : Expiration of Letters of Credit as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Less than 1 year 1-3 years 4-5 years After 5 years Letters of credit $ 728 $ 5,156 $ 6,150 $ —

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Estimated Fair Values of Remaining Financial Instruments	The following table provides the estimated fair values of the remaining financial instruments: As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Financial Instruments: Investment securities: Investment securities, restricted, long-term $ 336 $ 336 $ 336 $ 336 Cost method investment $ 2,776 $ 2,776 $ 2,776 $ 2,776 Borrowings and Notes Payable Short-term borrowings $ 12,676 $ 12,676 $ — $ — Current portion of notes payable, related parties $ 1,837 $ 1,457 $ 1,479 $ 1,439 Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties $ 13,512 $ 13,273 $ 14,431 $ 14,356 Highview technology license payable $ 519 $ 519 $ 155 $ 155 Highview technology license payable, long-term $ 1,038 $ 1,038 $ 1,389 $ 1,389 Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award $ 742 $ 742 $ — $ — (1) The fair value related to the DSI business owner note payable amounts as of December 31, 2015 was determined using the settlement agreement amount of $0.3 million , as described in Note 9 .
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	Financial instruments carried and measured at fair value on a recurring basis are presented in the table below according to the fair value hierarchy described above: As of December 31, 2015 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Assets: Investment securities, restricted, long-term $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336 Total assets at fair value $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336 Liabilities: Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award $ — $ 742 $ — $ 742 Total liabilities at fair value $ — $ 742 $ — $ 742 As of December 31, 2014 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Assets: Investment securities, restricted, long-term $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336 Total assets at fair value $ — $ 336 $ — $ 336
Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis	As of December 31, 2014 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Total Losses Assets: Property and equipment $ — $ — $ 424 $ 424 $ (355 ) Impaired note receivable — — — — (500 ) Total assets at fair value $ — $ — $ 424 $ 424 $ (855 ) The following tables show information related to assets and liabilities measured on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 Fair Value Measurement Using (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Total Losses Assets: Property and equipment $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Impaired note receivable — — — — (1,000 ) Total assets at fair value $ — $ — $ — $ — $ (1,000 )

Supplemental Financial Inform39

Supplemental Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets and Other assets	The following table summarizes the components of Prepaid expenses and other assets and Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets : As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Other current assets: Prepaid expenses $ 2,117 $ 1,573 Inventory 189 630 Other — 332 $ 2,306 $ 2,535 Other long-term assets: Deposits $ 414 $ 638 Intangibles 1,941 2,035 Other long-term assets 341 322 $ 2,696 $ 2,995
Schedule of Other Liabilities	The following table details the components of Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets : As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Other current liabilities: Accrued compensation $ 369 $ 1,539 Accrued interest 1,042 894 Accrued losses on equipment contracts 759 3,127 Deferred revenue 682 414 Other 3,346 765 $ 6,198 $ 6,739 Other long-term liabilities: Deferred rent $ 767 $ 1,021 Warranty liabilities 1,197 152 Deferred revenue, related party 2,000 2,000 Other long-term liabilities 2,605 2,838 $ 6,569 $ 6,011
Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation	Included within Other long-term liabilities is the Company's asset retirement obligation. Changes in the Company's asset retirement obligations were as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Asset retirement obligation, beginning of year $ 1,188 $ 1,130 Accretion 60 58 Asset retirement obligations, end of year $ 1,248 $ 1,188
Schedule of Statement of Operations, Supplemental Disclosures	The following table details the components of Interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations : Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 453A interest $ 4,639 $ 3,371 $ 1,313 RCM6 note payable, related party 2,468 2,245 — Credit agreement interest 1,180 — — Other 115 109 25 $ 8,402 $ 5,725 $ 1,338

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Option Valuation Assumptions	The following table indicates the weighted average assumptions that were used related to the awards granted for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively: Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Stock options granted: Risk-free interest rate 1.8 % 1.6 % 0.9 % Dividend yield — % — % — % Volatility 74.5 % 80.4 % 91.0 % Expected term (in years) 5.0 5.0 5.0
Equity Instruments, Other than Options, Valuation Assumptions	PSU's - Compensation expense is recognized for PSU awards on a straight-line basis over a three -year service period based on the estimated fair value at the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model using the following weighted average assumptions: Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 PSUs granted: Risk-free interest rate 1.0 % 0.8 % 0.4 % Dividend yield — % — % — % Volatility 64.3 % 74.5 % 81.4 % Performance period (in years) 3.0 3.0 3.0 The following table indicates the weighted average assumptions that were used related to the awards granted for the year ended December 31, 2015 . No SAR's were granted prior to January 1, 2015. Years Ended December 31, 2015 SAR's granted: Risk-free interest rate 1.8 % Dividend yield — % Volatility 74.5 % Expected term (in years) 5.0
Allocation of Compensation Expense	The Company recorded the following compensation expense related to its various plans: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 RSA expense $ 2,909 $ 2,612 $ 1,681 Stock option expense 658 117 48 SAR expense 742 — — PSU expense 2,895 1,983 583 Total stock-based compensation expense 7,204 4,712 2,312 Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation expense — — — Net income impact $ 7,204 $ 4,712 $ 2,312
Schedule of Unrecognized Compensation Cost	The amount of unrecognized compensation cost as of December 31, 2015 , and the expected weighted average period over which the cost will be recognized is as follows: As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Unrecognized Compensation Cost Expected Weighted Average Period of Recognition (in years) RSA expense $ 775 0.7 Stock option expense 202 0.9 SAR expense 746 0.3 PSU expense 613 1.0 Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense $ 2,336 0.7
Summary of Restricted Stock Activity	A summary of the status and activity of non-vested RSA is presented in the following table: For the Years Ended December 31. 2015 2014 2013 (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Shares Weighted Shares Weighted-Average Shares Weighted-Average Non-vested at beginning of year 209,921 $13.59 263,989 $9.05 254,156 $6.96 Granted 127,943 $14.97 112,643 $24.74 82,440 $16.88 Vested (165,796 ) $17.51 (118,364 ) $15.75 (63,187 ) $10.73 Forfeited (1) (37,360 ) $19.30 (48,347 ) $9.49 (9,420 ) $9.53 Non-vested at end of year 134,708 $8.49 209,921 $13.59 263,989 $9.05
Summary of Option Activity	A summary of option activity under the Plans is presented below: (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Number of Weighted Aggregate Intrinsic Value Weighted For the year ended December 31, 2013 Options outstanding, start of year 371,952 $ 5.10 Options granted 10,000 $ 11.93 Options exercised (54,376 ) $ 6.51 Options expired / forfeited (10,000 ) $ 5.10 Options outstanding, end of year 317,576 $ 5.07 $ 7,002 1.0 Options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2013 300,909 $ 4.74 $ 6,734 0.8 For the year ended December 31, 2014 Options outstanding, start of year 317,576 $ 5.07 Options granted 30,000 $ 20.67 Options exercised (260,126 ) $ 4.30 Options expired / forfeited (13,250 ) $ 6.90 Options outstanding, end of year 74,200 $ 13.76 $ 670 3.0 Options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2014 34,199 $ 8.44 $ 491 1.6 For the year ended December 31, 2015 Options outstanding, start of year 74,200 $ 13.76 Options granted 56,250 13.87 Options exercised — — Options expired / forfeited (24,200 ) 7.59 Options outstanding, end of year 106,250 $ 15.22 $ — 3.76 Options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2015 82,915 $ 14.04 $ — 3.88
Schedule of Equity Instruments, Other than Options Activity	A summary of the status and activity of non-vested PSU's is presented in the following table: For the Years Ended December 31. 2015 2014 2013 (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Units Weighted-Average Units Weighted-Average Units Weighted-Average Non-vested at beginning of year 142,357 $ 30.65 89,578 $ 26.04 — $ — Granted (1) 69,218 20.10 57,547 37.45 89,578 26.04 Vested (1) (13,763 ) 30.52 — — — — Forfeited / Canceled (1) (2) (28,478 ) 30.44 (4,768 ) 26.04 — — Non-vested at end of year 169,334 $ 26.38 142,357 $ 30.65 89,578 $ 26.04 (1) The number of units shown in the table above are based on target performance. The final number of shares of common stock issued may vary depending on the achievement of market conditions established within the awards, which could result in the actual number of shares issued ranging from zero to a maximum of two times the number of units shown in the above table. (2) Included within the 2015 forfeited / canceled units are PSU's related to a former executive that were clawed back. The Company recognized $0.2 million within Other Income line item on the Consolidated Statement of Operations related to these awards. A summary of SAR activity under the Plans is presented below: Years Ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) Number of Weighted Aggregate Intrinsic Value Weighted SAR's outstanding at beginning of year — $ — Granted 243,750 $ 13.87 Exercised — $ — Expired / forfeited — $ — SAR's outstanding, end of year 243,750 $ 13.87 $ — 4.5 SAR's vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2015 43,750 $ 13.87 $ — 0
Schedule of Performance-Based Units, Settled	The following table shows the PSUs that were settled by issuing the Company's common stock relative to a peer group performance index and broad stock index. Year of Grant Net Number of Issued Shares upon Vesting Shares Withheld to Settle Tax Withholding Obligations TSR Multiple Range Russell 3000 Multiple Low High Low High For the year ended December 31, 2015 2013 8,768 3,954 1.75 1.75 2.00 2.00 2014 2,506 1,145 0.63 0.75 — 0.75

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Settlement and Royalty Indemnity Obligation	As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company has recorded the components of the Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation and Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term line items in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation, short-term $ 6,502 $ 3,749 Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term 13,797 20,273 Total settlement and royalty indemnity $ 20,299 $ 24,022
Schedule of Debt	The following tables summarize the letters of credit outstanding, collateral, by type, and the related line items within the Consolidated Balance Sheets where the collateral related to the letters of credit is recorded: As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) LOC Outstanding Restricted Cash Restricted cash, long-term Investment securities, restricted, long-term Contract performance - equipment systems $ 5,556 $ 728 $ 4,830 $ — Royalty indemnification 6,150 — 6,150 — Other 328 — — 336 Total LOC outstanding $ 12,034 $ 728 $ 10,980 $ 336 As of December 31, 2014 (in thousands) LOC Outstanding Restricted Cash Restricted cash, long-term Investment securities, restricted, long-term Contract performance - equipment systems $ 7,247 $ 2,527 $ 4,721 $ — Royalty indemnification 4,050 — 4,050 — Other 328 — — 336 Total LOC outstanding $ 11,625 $ 2,527 $ 8,771 $ 336
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	The following table presents the future aggregate annual total borrowing amounts due, excluding unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, as of December 31, 2015 , after giving effect to the RCM6 transaction and the DSI Business Owner agreement which occurred during the first quarter of 2016, discussed above: Years Ending December 31, Amount ( in thousands ) 2016 $ 13,500 2017 — 2018 — 2019 — 2020 — Thereafter — Total $ 13,500 The following tables summarizes the expiration periods of the letters of credit, based upon the ultimate maturity date of the letters of credit as of December 31, 2015 : Expiration of Letters of Credit as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Less than 1 year 1-3 years 4-5 years After 5 years Letters of credit $ 728 $ 5,156 $ 6,150 $ —
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases	Annual minimum commitments under the leases as of December 31, 2015 are as follows: Years Ending December 31, Operating Lease Commitments (in thousands) 2016 $ 1,506 2017 1,298 2018 1,006 2019 102 2020 — Thereafter — Total $ 3,912
Schedule of Rent Expense	Rental expense incurred for the years ended are as follows: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Rent expense $ 1,838 $ 1,531 $ 871

Defined Contributions Savings42

Defined Contributions Savings Plan (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Contributions and Recognized Expense	The following table presents the amount the Company recognized as expense within the Payroll and benefits line item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations : Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 401(K) employer expense $ 439 $ 509 $ 625

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Benefit (Expense) from Continuing Operations	The provision for income taxes consists of the following: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands, except for rate) 2015 2014 2013 Current portion of income tax expense: Federal $ — $ — $ — State 20 296 463 20 296 463 Deferred portion of income tax expense — — — Total income tax expense $ 20 $ 296 $ 463 Effective tax rate — % 18 % (3 )%
Reconciliation of Expected Federal Income Taxes at Statutory Rates	A reconciliation of expected federal income taxes on income from operations at statutory rates with the expense (benefit) for income taxes is as follows: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Amount Amount Amount Federal statutory rate $ (10,542 ) $ 589 $ (5,435 ) State income taxes, net of federal benefit (781 ) 31 (1,077 ) Disallowed compensation — 721 — Permanent differences 35 52 45 Tax credits (38,998 ) (25,607 ) (14,727 ) Valuation allowances 50,066 23,794 21,843 Changes in state effective rates (243 ) 716 — Share based compensation 487 — — Other (4 ) — (186 ) Expense (Benefit) for the provision for income taxes $ 20 $ 296 $ 463
Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities	Details of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are summarized as follows: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets Settlements $ 7,807 $ 9,177 Deferred revenues and loss contract provisions 2,899 4,650 Employee related liabilities 4,598 3,643 Intangible assets 1,733 1,070 Equity method investments 7,500 7,507 Net operating loss carryforward 23,193 10,831 Tax credits 97,484 58,486 Deposits on equipment contracts 1,146 2,492 Other 2,118 1,105 Total deferred tax assets 148,478 98,961 Less valuation allowance (148,269 ) (98,203 ) Net deferred tax assets 209 758 Less: Deferred tax liabilities Property and equipment and other (209 ) (758 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (209 ) (758 ) Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ — $ —
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards and Tax Credit Carryforwards	The following table presents the approximate amount of federal and state net operating loss carryforwards and federal tax credit carryforwards available to reduce future taxable income, along with the respective range of years that the net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards would expire if not utilized: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 Beginning expiration year Ending expiration year Federal net operating loss carryforwards $ 59,042 2031 2035 State net operating loss carryforwards $ 62,422 2017 2035 Federal tax credit carryforwards $ 97,484 2031 2035

Business Segment Information (T

Business Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Operating Results	The following table presents the Company's operating segment results for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . All assets are located in the U.S. and all significant customers are U.S. companies. Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenues: Refined Coal: Earnings from equity method investments $ 8,921 $ 42,712 $ 15,502 Consulting services 55 665 1,330 Royalties, related party 10,642 6,410 2,505 19,618 49,787 19,337 Emissions Control: Equipment sales 60,099 12,044 5,747 Consulting services 1,697 3,823 5,460 Chemical and other 888 391 749 62,684 16,258 11,956 Total segment reporting revenues $ 82,302 $ 66,045 $ 31,293 Adjustments to reconcile to reported revenues: Refined Coal: Earnings from equity method investments $ (8,921 ) $ (42,712 ) $ (15,502 ) Royalties, related party (10,642 ) (6,410 ) (2,505 ) (19,563 ) (49,122 ) (18,007 ) Total reported revenues $ 62,739 $ 16,923 $ 13,286 Segment reporting operating income (loss) Refined Coal $ 12,131 $ 42,094 $ 16,227 Emissions Control (7,583 ) (13,348 ) (14,494 ) Total segment operating income (loss) $ 4,548 $ 28,746 $ 1,733
Reconciliation of Reportable Segment Amounts to Consolidated Balances	A reconciliation of reportable segment amounts to the Company's consolidated balances is as follows: Years Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Segment income Total reported segment operating income (loss) $ 4,548 $ 28,746 $ 1,733 Adjustments to reconcile to net loss attributable to Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. Corporate payroll and benefits (14,842 ) (12,621 ) (10,898 ) Corporate rent and occupancy (707 ) (694 ) (593 ) Corporate legal and professional fees (15,199 ) (9,514 ) (2,563 ) Corporate general and administrative (3,640 ) (3,980 ) (2,961 ) Corporate depreciation and amortization (578 ) (354 ) (307 ) Interest income 24 74 109 Other income (expense) 273 26 (44 ) Income tax (expense) benefit (20 ) (296 ) (463 ) Net income (loss) $ (30,141 ) $ 1,387 $ (15,987 )
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated	Segment assets were as follows as of the dates presented: As of December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Assets: Refined Coal $ 19,507 $ 21,322 Emissions Control 31,467 51,891 All Other and Corporate 9,801 20,486 Consolidated $ 60,775 $ 93,699

Major Customers (Tables)

Major Customers (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Major Customers Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Sales by Major Customers	Sales to unaffiliated customers who represent 10% or more of the Company’s sales in any one year were as follows: Years Ended December 31, Customer Revenue Type Segment(s) 2015 2014 2013 A Equipment sales, Consulting services EC 16% 37% 2% B Equipment sales, Consulting services, Other EC 2% 24% —% C Equipment sales EC —% 1% 11% D Consulting services EC 11% 8% 12% E Equipment sales EC —% —% 25% F Equipment sales EC 15% —% —%

Quarterly Financial Results (46

Quarterly Financial Results (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	Summarized quarterly results for the two years ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 , respectively, are as follows: For the Quarter Ended (in thousands, except per share data) December 31, 2015 September 30, 2015 June 30, 2015 March 31, 2015 Revenues $ 13,202 $ 12,885 $ 14,895 $ 21,757 Cost of revenues, exclusive of operating expenses shown below 7,224 10,610 14,003 15,715 Other operating expenses 13,113 12,264 18,670 12,940 Operating loss (7,135 ) (9,989 ) (17,778 ) (6,898 ) Earnings (loss) from equity method investments 3,788 (41 ) 4,860 314 Royalties, related party 2,876 3,273 2,299 2,194 Other income (expenses), net (2,568 ) (1,853 ) (1,765 ) (1,698 ) Income (loss) before income tax expense (3,039 ) (8,610 ) (12,384 ) (6,088 ) Income tax expense (131 ) 44 63 44 Net income (loss) $ (2,908 ) $ (8,654 ) $ (12,447 ) $ (6,132 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – basic $ (0.13 ) $ (0.40 ) $ (0.57 ) $ (0.28 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – diluted $ (0.13 ) $ (0.40 ) $ (0.57 ) $ (0.28 ) Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (1) Basic 21,676 21,687 21,715 21,696 Diluted 21,676 21,687 21,715 21,696 For the Quarter Ended (in thousands, except per share data) December 31, 2014 September 30, 2014 June 30, 2014 March 31, 2014 Revenues $ 3,693 $ 9,072 $ 3,175 $ 983 Cost of revenues, exclusive of operating expenses shown below 2,903 6,512 1,754 451 Other operating expenses 16,335 12,839 9,841 8,102 Operating income (Loss) (15,545 ) (10,279 ) (8,420 ) (7,570 ) Earnings from equity method investments 20,693 5,603 9,791 6,625 Royalties, related party 2,154 2,275 849 1,132 Other income (expenses), net (2,484 ) (1,185 ) (1,199 ) (757 ) Income (loss) before income tax expense 4,818 (3,586 ) 1,021 (570 ) Income tax expense 141 113 29 13 Net income (loss) $ 4,677 $ (3,699 ) $ 992 $ (583 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – basic $ 0.21 $ (0.17 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.03 ) Earnings (loss) per common share – diluted $ 0.21 $ (0.17 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.03 ) Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (1) Basic 21,563 21,536 21,477 21,465 Diluted 21,947 21,536 22,035 21,465 (1) The number of shares and per share amounts have been retroactively restated to reflect the two -for-one stock split of the Company’s common stock, which was effected in the form of a common stock dividend distributed on March 14, 2014.

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed47

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet	Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) ADES Historical Pro Forma adjustments related to RCM6 Disposition ADES Pro Forma ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 9,265 $ 1,773 A $ 11,038 Receivables, net 8,361 — 8,361 Receivables, related parties, net 1,918 — 1,918 Restricted cash 728 — 728 Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts 2,137 — 2,137 Prepaid expenses and other assets 2,306 — 2,306 Total current assets 24,715 1,773 26,488 Restricted cash, long-term 10,980 — 10,980 Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation 2,040 — 2,040 Investment securities, restricted, long-term 336 — 336 Cost method investment 2,776 — 2,776 Equity method investments 17,232 (13,264 ) B 3,968 Other assets 2,696 — 2,696 Total Assets $ 60,775 $ (11,491 ) $ 49,284 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 6,174 $ — 6,174 Accrued payroll and related liabilities 5,800 — 5,800 Current portion of notes payable, related parties 1,837 (1,207 ) B 630 Short-term borrowings 12,676 — 12,676 Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts 9,708 — 9,708 Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation 6,502 — 6,502 Other current liabilities 6,198 — 6,198 Total current liabilities 48,895 (1,207 ) 47,688 Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties 13,512 (13,023 ) B 489 Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term 13,797 — 13,797 Advance deposit, related party 2,980 — 2,980 Other long-term liabilities 6,569 — 6,569 Total Liabilities 85,753 (14,230 ) 71,523 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders’ deficit: Preferred stock — — — Common stock 22 — 22 Additional paid-in capital 116,029 — 116,029 Accumulated deficit (141,029 ) 2,739 C (138,290 ) Total stockholders’ deficit (24,978 ) 2,739 (22,239 ) Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit $ 60,775 $ (11,491 ) $ 49,284
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations	Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations Year ended December 31, 2015 (in thousands, except per share data) ADES Historical Pro Forma adjustments related to RCM6 Disposition ADES Pro Forma Revenues: Equipment sales $ 60,099 $ — $ 60,099 Consulting services 1,752 — 1,752 Chemicals and other 888 — 888 Total revenues 62,739 — 62,739 Operating expenses: Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization 45,433 — 45,433 Consulting services cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization 1,518 — 1,518 Chemical and other cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization 601 — 601 Payroll and benefits 23,589 — 23,589 Rent and occupancy 3,309 — 3,309 Legal and professional fees 16,604 — 16,604 General and administrative 6,104 — 6,104 Research and development, net 5,362 — 5,362 Depreciation and amortization 2,019 — 2,019 Total operating expenses 104,539 — 104,539 Operating loss (41,800 ) — (41,800 ) Other income (expenses): Earnings from equity method investments 8,921 4,568 D 13,489 Royalties, related party 10,642 — 10,642 Interest income 24 — 24 Interest expense (8,402 ) 2,468 E (5,934 ) Other 494 524 F 1,018 Total other income (expense), net 11,679 7,560 19,239 Income (loss) before income tax expense (30,121 ) 7,560 (22,561 ) Income tax expense 20 — G 20 Net income (loss) $ (30,141 ) $ 7,560 $ (22,581 ) Earnings (loss) per common share: Basic $ (1.37 ) $ (1.04 ) Diluted $ (1.37 ) $ (1.04 ) Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 21,773 21,773 Diluted 21,773 21,773
Schedule of Proforma Statement of Operations Adjustments, Components of Loss Calculation	The following table presents the components of the pro forma loss calculation: (in thousands) Cash received upon RCM6 Disposition (1) $ 1,773 Note payable balance - as of January 1, 2015 14,186 Subtotal 15,959 Estimated assets relinquished - as of January 1, 2015 15,435 Estimated pro forma gain for the year ended December 31, 2015 $ 524 (1) Represents the actual cash received by ADES from the buyer upon closing of the RCM6 Disposition. In determining these pro-forma adjustments, the Company has assumed that the consideration received, had the transaction occurred on January 1, 2015, would have also been the cash received upon Disposition in the amount of $1.773 million . The actual amount of cash consideration that may have been received by the Company had the closing occurred on January 1, 2015 would likely have been different. As a result, the estimate of the pre-tax gain or loss as of that date would change in direct correlation to the actual change in cash received. Matters potentially impacting the actual amount of consideration received as of the RCM6 assumed pro-forma disposition date of January 1, 2015 include capital contributions to RCM6 and payments related to the Company's note payable balance for the acquisition of RCM6 which occurred from January 2, 2015 through the RCM6 Disposition date. (2) Based on the purchase price accounting related to the Company's acquisition of RCM6, as described in Note 7 .

Summary of Operations and Sig48

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Narrative (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Mar. 14, 2014	Jul. 01, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Feb. 01, 2015$ / shares	Feb. 10, 2014	Jan. 20, 2010
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Stock split, conversion ratio	2	1			1
Common stock authorized (in shares) | shares			100,000,000	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 0.001	$ 0.001	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred stock authorized (in shares) | shares			50,000,000	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred stock par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 0.001	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Provision for debt expense			$ 100
Note receivable, impairment charges			500	$ 500	$ 0
Inventory			189	630
Amortization expense			400	0	0
Estimated future amortization, year one			200
Estimated future amortization, year two			184
Estimated future amortization, year three			184
Estimated future amortization, year four			184
Estimated future amortization, year five			184
Asset impairment charges			$ 2,087	$ 355	277
Minimum
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accounts receivable payment terms			30 days
Property and equipment estimated useful lives			2 years
Warranty term			12 months
Maximum
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accounts receivable payment terms			45 days
Property and equipment estimated useful lives			10 years
Warranty term			24 months
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS)
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent			42.50%	42.50%
Clean Coal Solutions Services (CCSS)
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent			50.00%					50.00%
RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent			24.95%				24.95%
Disposed of by Sale | General and Administrative Expense
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges			$ 300	$ 400	$ 100

Summary of Operations and Sig49

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract]
Receivables	$ 8,518	$ 16,609
Less allowance for doubtful accounts	(157)	(15)
Total	8,361	16,594
Due from Related Parties, Current [Abstract]
Receivables, related parties	1,918	1,439
Total	$ 1,918	$ 1,439

Summary of Operations and Sig50

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-Average Amortization Period (in years)	12 years 10 months 24 days
Initial Cost	$ 2,267	$ 2,160
Net of Accumulated Amortization	$ 1,941	2,035
Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-Average Amortization Period (in years)	20 years
Initial Cost	$ 742	635
Net of Accumulated Amortization	581	523
Licensed technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Initial Cost	1,525	1,525
Net of Accumulated Amortization	$ 1,360	$ 1,512
Highview Enterprises Limited | Licensed technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-Average Amortization Period (in years)	10 years

Summary of Operations and Sig51

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Warranty Obligation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 152	$ 62
Warranties accrued, net	1,337	90
Warranty claims	(292)	0
Ending balance	$ 1,197	$ 152

Summary of Operations and Sig52

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (2,908)	$ (8,654)	$ (12,447)	$ (6,132)	$ 4,677	$ (3,699)	$ 992	$ (583)	$ (30,141)	$ 1,387	$ (15,987)
Less: Undistributed income (loss) allocated to participating securities									(275)	18	(220)
Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders									$ (29,866)	$ 1,369	$ (15,767)
Basic weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (in shares)	21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,563	21,536	21,477	21,465	21,773	21,554	20,103
Add: dilutive effect of equity instruments (in shares)									0	525	0
Diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (in shares)	21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,947	21,536	22,035	21,465	21,773	22,079	20,103
Earnings (loss) per share - basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)
Earnings (loss) per share - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)

Summary of Operations and Sig53

Summary of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies - Anti-dilutive Equity Instruments (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Performance share units	355	0	532
Stock options
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Performance share units	10	0	249
Restricted stock awards
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Performance share units	163	0	250
Performance share units
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Performance share units	182	0	33

Restructuring - Net Pretax Bene

Restructuring - Net Pretax Benefits (Charges), Incurred by Segment (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)employee	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)employee	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)employee
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Approximate Number of Employees | employee	162	29	1
Restructuring charges	$ 10,372	$ 3,503	$ 60
Changes in estimates	(12)
Total pretax charge, net of reversals	10,360	3,503	60
Refined Coal
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	0	0	0
Changes in estimates	0
Total pretax charge, net of reversals	0	0	0
Emissions Control
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	5,108	1,294	0
Changes in estimates	(10)
Total pretax charge, net of reversals	5,098	1,294	0
All Other and Corporate
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	5,264	2,209	60
Changes in estimates	(2)
Total pretax charge, net of reversals	$ 5,262	$ 2,209	$ 60

Restructuring - Utilization of

Restructuring - Utilization of Restructuring Accruals (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Share-based compensation		$ 3,400	$ 1,000	$ 0
Asset impairment charges		2,087	355	277
ADA Analytics Israel, LLC
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Asset impairment charges	$ 2,300	1,900
Employee Severance
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Accrual, Beginning balance		1,690	29	0
Expense provision		8,498	3,503	60
Cash payments and other		(7,595)	(1,842)	(31)
Change in estimates		(12)	0	0
Accrual, Ending balance		2,581	1,690	29
Business Operations Closure
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Accrual, Beginning balance		0	0	0
Expense provision		2,650	0	0
Cash payments and other		(1,873)	0	0
Change in estimates		0	0	0
Accrual, Ending balance		$ 777	$ 0	$ 0

Property and Equipment (Details

Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, gross	$ 6,597	$ 10,732
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(4,557)	(5,924)
Total property and equipment, net	$ 2,040	4,808
Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	2 years
Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	10 years
Machinery and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, gross	$ 3,498	7,194
Machinery and equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	3 years
Machinery and equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	10 years
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, gross	$ 2,172	2,198
Leasehold improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	3 years
Leasehold improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	7 years
Furniture and fixtures
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, gross	$ 927	$ 1,340
Furniture and fixtures | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	3 years
Furniture and fixtures | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Life in Years	7 years

Property and Equipment - Additi

Property and Equipment - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation expense		$ 1,700	$ 1,800	$ 1,600
Asset impairment charges		2,087	355	277
Property and equipment	$ 2,040	2,040	4,808
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		942	26	1
Restructuring charges		10,372	3,503	60
Business Operations Closure
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	800
Disposed of by Sale
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of impaired assets	600
Property and equipment	60	60
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	300
Gain on disposition of assets	$ 200
Disposed of by Sale | General and Administrative Expense
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges		$ 300	$ 400	$ 100

Investments - Narrative (Detail

Investments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Highview Enterprises Limited
Investment [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent	8.00%
Payments to acquire investments	$ 2.8
Minimum
Investment [Line Items]
Remaining maturities range		1 year
Maximum
Investment [Line Items]
Remaining maturities range		5 years
Cost method investment
Investment [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, debt securities			$ 2.8	$ 2.8
Certificates of deposit
Investment [Line Items]
Investments			$ 0.3	$ 0.3

Costs and Billings on Uncompl59

Costs and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cost and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts [Line Items]
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts (gross)	$ 72,581	$ 79,108
Billings on uncompleted contracts (gross)	(80,152)	(95,473)
Total deferred revenue	(7,571)	(16,365)
Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	2,137	6,153
Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts	(9,708)	(22,518)
Total deferred project costs	(7,571)	(16,365)
Provision for loss on uncompleted contracts	800	2,900
Other current liabilities
Cost and Billings on Uncompleted Contracts [Line Items]
Loss on contracts provisions	$ 300	$ 300	$ 4,800

Research and Development and 60

Research and Development and Government and Industry Funded Contracts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Government and Industry Funded Contracts [Abstract]
Research and development expense		$ 6,737	$ 3,554	$ 13,054
DOE funding		1,375	1,756	9,400
Industry cost-share funding		0	277	417
Net research and development expense		5,362	1,521	3,237
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges		2,087	$ 355	$ 277
ADA Analytics Israel, LLC
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges	$ 2,300	$ 1,900

Equity Method Investments - Nar

Equity Method Investments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Feb. 10, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 20, 2010
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Earnings from equity method investments		$ 3,788,000	$ (41,000)	$ 4,860,000	$ 314,000	$ 20,693,000	$ 5,603,000	$ 9,791,000	$ 6,625,000	$ 8,921,000	$ 42,712,000	$ 15,502,000
Equity method investments		17,232,000				19,584,000				17,232,000	19,584,000
Purchase, contributions and advances to equity method investees										2,128,000	6,631,000	0
Purchase of membership interest, note payable outstanding		$ 28,025,000				$ 15,910,000				28,025,000	15,910,000
Impairment of equity method investments										$ 0	$ 0	0
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent		42.50%				42.50%				42.50%	42.50%
Preferred return to third party unitholders										15.00%
Preferred unitholder, redemption period										10 years
Preferred unitholder, redemption notice period										180 days
Voting interest		50.00%								50.00%
Earnings from equity method investments										$ 8,651,000	$ 43,584,000	13,813,000
Equity method investments		$ 0				$ 0				0	0	0	$ 0
Losses related to VIEs, attributable to noncontrolling interest										10,675,000	11,023,000	0
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS) | Cash distributions
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Earnings from equity method investments										(8,651,000)	(43,584,000)	(13,813,000)
Equity method investments		8,651,000				43,584,000				8,651,000	43,584,000	13,813,000	0
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS) | Memo Account: Cash distributions and equity loss in (excess) of investment balance
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Earnings from equity method investments										0	0	0
Equity method investments		$ 3,263,000				(29,877,000)				$ 3,263,000	(29,877,000)	(12,906,000)	$ (8,003,000)
NexGen Refined Coal, LLC (NexGen)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent		42.50%								42.50%
GSFS Investments I Corp. (GSFS)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent		15.00%								15.00%
Clean Coal Solutions Services (CCSS)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent		50.00%								50.00%				50.00%
Earnings from equity method investments										$ 4,838,000	3,625,000	1,689,000
Equity method investments		$ 3,968,000				4,149,000				3,968,000	4,149,000
Losses related to VIEs, attributable to noncontrolling interest										$ 213,746,000	132,237,000	77,814,000
RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent	24.95%	24.95%								24.95%
Earnings from equity method investments										$ (4,568,000)	(4,497,000)	$ 0
Equity method investments		$ 13,264,000				15,435,000				13,264,000	15,435,000
Purchase, contributions and advances to equity method investees	$ 2,400,000									2,400,000	4,200,000
Purchase of membership interest, note payable issued	$ 13,300,000
Debt instrument, term	7 years
Purchase of membership interest, note payable outstanding		14,200,000				$ 14,200,000				14,200,000	14,200,000
Amount by which investment exceeded proportionate share of investee's net assets		$ 11,900,000								11,900,000
Earnings (loss) from equity method investment for depreciation and amortization related to investment basis difference										$ 1,900,000	$ 1,700,000

Equity Method Investments - Equ

Equity Method Investments - Equity Method Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract]
ADES equity earnings from CCS	$ 3,788	$ (41)	$ 4,860	$ 314	$ 20,693	$ 5,603	$ 9,791	$ 6,625	$ 8,921	$ 42,712	$ 15,502
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Equity method investments	17,232				19,584				17,232	19,584
Earnings from equity method investments	3,788	$ (41)	$ 4,860	$ 314	20,693	$ 5,603	$ 9,791	$ 6,625	8,921	42,712	15,502
Purchase of and contributions to equity method investments									2,398	6,631	0
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment									5,019	2,509	5
Included in Investing Cash Flows									8,651	43,584	13,813
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract]
Current assets	41,099				28,701				41,099	28,701
Non-current assets	90,509				52,983				90,509	52,983
Current liabilities	60,987				70,927				60,987	70,927
Non-current liabilities	9,434				22,737				9,434	22,737
Redeemable Class B equity	30,449				45,522				30,449	45,522
Members deficit attributable to Class A members	25,175				(63,027)				25,175	(63,027)
Noncontrolling interests	5,563				5,525				5,563	5,525
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract]
Gross margin									108,416	89,099	50,941
Operating expenses									23,405	21,502	17,462
Income from operations									85,011	67,597	33,479
Other expenses									(2,203)	(1,830)	(527)
Redeemable Class B preferred return									(6,157)	(8,707)	(10,189)
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest									10,675	11,023	0
Net income available to Class A members									87,326	68,083	22,763
ADES equity earnings from CCS									8,651	43,584	13,813
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Equity method investments	0				0				0	0	0	$ 0
Earnings from equity method investments									8,651	43,584	13,813
Purchase of and contributions to equity method investments									0	3,153	0
Included in Investing Cash Flows									3,263	29,877	12,906
Clean Coal Solutions Services (CCSS)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract]
Current assets	186,959				215,944				186,959	215,944
Non-current assets	3,704				12,623				3,704	12,623
Current liabilities	92,675				127,858				92,675	127,858
Non-current liabilities	1,366				1,214				1,366	1,214
Equity	7,936				8,298				7,936	8,298
Noncontrolling interests	88,686				91,197				88,686	91,197
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract]
Gross margin									(42,496)	(22,168)	(11,055)
Operating expenses									161,456	102,757	63,247
Income from operations									(203,952)	(124,925)	(74,302)
Other expenses									(118)	(62)	(134)
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest									213,746	132,237	77,814
Net income available to Class A members									9,676	7,250	3,378
ADES equity earnings from CCS									4,838	3,625	1,689
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Equity method investments	3,968				4,149				3,968	4,149
Earnings from equity method investments									4,838	3,625	1,689
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment									5,019	2,509	5
RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract]
Current assets	12,240				11,566				12,240	11,566
Non-current assets	2,472				2,608				2,472	2,608
Current liabilities	1,489				1,534				1,489	1,534
Non-current liabilities	7,649				7,105				7,649	7,105
Equity	5,574				5,535				5,574	5,535
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract]
Gross margin									(7,877)	(8,257)
Operating expenses									2,178	2,123
Income from operations									(10,055)	(10,380)
Other expenses									(641)	(666)
Net income available to Class A members									(10,696)	(11,046)
ADES equity earnings from CCS									(4,568)	(4,497)	0
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 13,264				$ 15,435				13,264	15,435
Earnings from equity method investments									(4,568)	(4,497)	0
Purchase of and contributions to equity method investments									$ 2,398	$ 3,478	$ 0

Equity Method Investments - Rol

Equity Method Investments - Rollforward of CCS Investment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 10, 2014
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance				$ 19,584					$ 19,584
Current year cash distributions from CCS	$ (3,788)	$ 41	$ (4,860)	(314)	$ (20,693)	$ (5,603)	$ (9,791)	$ (6,625)	(8,921)	$ (42,712)	$ (15,502)
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance									8,651	43,584	13,813
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	17,232				19,584				17,232	19,584
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS)
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance				0				0	0	0	0
ADES proportionate share of income from CCS									35,265	26,613	8,910
Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions)									(29,877)	(12,906)	(8,003)
Current year cash distributions from CCS									(8,651)	(43,584)	(13,813)
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance									3,263	29,877	12,906
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	$ 0				$ 0				$ 0	$ 0	0
Ownership interest, percent	42.50%				42.50%				42.50%	42.50%
Ownership interest multiplied by net income available to members, percent	42.50%								42.50%
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS) | ADES equity earnings (loss)
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance				43,584				13,813	$ 43,584	$ 13,813	0
ADES proportionate share of income from CCS									35,265	26,613	8,910
Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions)									(29,877)	(12,906)	(8,003)
Current year cash distributions from CCS									0	0	0
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance									3,263	29,877	12,906
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	$ 8,651				$ 43,584				8,651	43,584	13,813
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS) | Cash distributions
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance				43,584				13,813	43,584	13,813	0
ADES proportionate share of income from CCS									0	0	0
Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions)									0	0	0
Current year cash distributions from CCS									8,651	43,584	13,813
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance									0	0	0
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	8,651				43,584				8,651	43,584	13,813
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS) | Memo Account: Cash distributions and equity loss in (excess) of investment balance
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance				(29,877)				$ (12,906)	(29,877)	(12,906)	(8,003)
ADES proportionate share of income from CCS									0	0	0
Recovery of cash distributions in excess of investment balance (prior to cash distributions)									29,877	12,906	8,003
Current year cash distributions from CCS									0	0	0
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance									(3,263)	(29,877)	(12,906)
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	3,263				(29,877)				3,263	(29,877)	(12,906)
RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance				$ 15,435					15,435
Current year cash distributions from CCS									4,568	4,497	$ 0
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	$ 13,264				$ 15,435				$ 13,264	$ 15,435
Ownership interest, percent	24.95%								24.95%			24.95%

Acquisitions - Narrative (Detai

Acquisitions - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 06, 2015	Nov. 20, 2014	Aug. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid				$ 2,124	$ 0	$ 0
Asset impairment charges				2,087	$ 355	$ 277
ADA Analytics Israel, LLC
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid	$ 2,360	$ 200
Cash paid to acquire business, VAT tax	400
Contingent consideration, liability	$ 500
Asset impairment charges			$ 2,300	$ 1,900
Write-off of the contingent consideration			$ 400

Acquisitions - Consideration an

Acquisitions - Consideration and Allocation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 06, 2015	Nov. 20, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid			$ 2,124	$ 0	$ 0
ADA Analytics Israel, LLC
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid	$ 2,360	$ 200
Accrued liabilities	10
Contingent consideration	451
Total fair value of liabilities assumed	461
Total purchase consideration	2,821
Receivables	360
Property and equipment and other	82
Intangibles - in process research and development	2,379
Total	$ 2,821

Related Party Transactions - Na

Related Party Transactions - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands, £ in Millions

Mar. 30, 2016USD ($)

Oct. 22, 2015USD ($)

Mar. 06, 2015USD ($)

Nov. 20, 2014USD ($)

Feb. 10, 2014USD ($)

Feb. 29, 2016USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2013USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares

Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)

Mar. 03, 2016

Nov. 30, 2014USD ($)

Nov. 30, 2014GBP (£)

Jan. 31, 2013USD ($)

Aug. 31, 2012

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Short-term note payable

$ 12,676

$ 0

Purchase, contributions and advances to equity method investees

2,128

$ 6,631

$ 0

Weighted-average amortization period (in years)

12 years 10 months 24 days

Cash paid

2,124

$ 0

$ 0

Deferred revenue, related party

2,000

2,000

Board Member

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Compensation

$ 100

Executive Officer

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Real estate property, purchase interest, amount

$ 300

Loss on sale of properties

$ (100)

ADA Analytics Israel, LLC

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Cash paid

$ 2,360

$ 200

ADA Analytics Israel, LLC | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Cash paid

$ 200

General and Administrative Expense | ADA Analytics Israel, LLC

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Expenses associated with related parties

200

200

Subsequent Event | RMC6, LLC (RCM6) | Disposed of by Sale

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Ownership percentage sold

24.95%

RMC6, LLC (RCM6)

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Effective interest rate

20.00%

Purchase, contributions and advances to equity method investees

$ 2,400

$ 2,400

$ 4,200

Purchase of membership interest, note payable issued

$ 13,300

Stated interest rate

1.65%

Ownership percentage sold

24.95%

24.95%

RMC6, LLC (RCM6) | Notes Payable

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Discount

$ 7,600

Highview Enterprises Limited

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Ownership percentage sold

8.00%

8.00%

Highview Enterprises Limited | Licensed technology

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Accounts payable, related parties

$ 3,400

Weighted-average amortization period (in years)

10 years

Buy-out fee

$ 300

£ 0.2

Term Loan

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Short-term note payable

$ 15,000

Term loan extension option term

3 months

Effective interest rate

10.50%

Proceeds from debt, net of discount

$ 13,500

Debt issuance costs

$ 1,500

Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs

$ (600)

Term Loan | Subsequent Event

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Effective interest rate

15.00%

Debt issuance costs

$ 600

Clean Coal Solutions (CCS)

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Proceeds from royalties received

$ 10,000

Affiliated Entity

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Stated interest rate

4.00%

Affiliated Entity | Legal and Professional Fees

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Expenses associated with related parties

$ 1,100

Affiliated Entity | Subsequent Event

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Due to related parties

$ 1,100

Extinguishment of debt, amount

$ 300

Arch

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Deferred revenue, related party

2,000

Fees related to related party agreement

$ 300

Number of seats on board

1

Arch | Minimum

Transactions with Third Party [Line Items]

Common stock held | shares

200,000

Related Party Transactions - Am

Related Party Transactions - Amounts Recorded to Related Party (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Advance deposit from related party	$ 2,980				$ 6,524				$ 2,980	$ 6,524
Royalties, related party	2,876	$ 3,273	$ 2,299	$ 2,194	2,154	$ 2,275	$ 849	$ 1,132	10,642	6,410	$ 2,505
Other revenues from related party									10,642	6,410	2,574
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Receivable from related party	1,918				1,439				1,918	1,439
Advance deposit from related party	2,981				6,524				2,981	6,524
Revenues from related party									55	665	1,330
Royalties, related party									10,642	6,410	2,505
Interest income, related party									0	0	40
RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payable to related party	$ 270				$ 0				270	0
Clean Coal Solutions Services (CCSS)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Interest income, related party									$ 0	$ 0	$ 29

Related Party Transactions - Su

Related Party Transactions - Summary of Notes Payable with Related Parties (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term note payable	$ 12,676	$ 0
Current portion of long-term borrowings	1,837	1,479
Total Short-term and current portion of long-term borrowings	14,513	1,479
Long-term borrowings	13,512	14,431
Thereafter	28,025	15,910
Franklin Mutual
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term note payable	12,676	0
RCM6 note payable, net of discount
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Current portion of long-term borrowings	1,207	874
Long-term borrowings	13,023	13,312
DSI Business Owner note payable
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Current portion of long-term borrowings	630	605
Long-term borrowings	$ 489	$ 1,119

Related Party Transactions - 69

Related Party Transactions - Summary of Aggregate Annual Maturities (Details) - Affiliated Entity $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
2,016	$ 13,500
2,017	0
2,018	0
2,019	0
2,020	0
Thereafter	0
Long-term Debt	$ 13,500

Fair Value Measurements - Narra

Fair Value Measurements - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)Financial_Institution	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)Financial_Institution	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Number of financial institutions with certificates of deposit investments | Financial_Institution	2	2
Time deposits, $250,000 or more	$ 250	$ 250
Asset impairment charges		2,087	$ 355	$ 277
Property and equipment	2,040	2,040	4,808
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		942	26	1
Seller Companies
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Property and equipment			800
Disposed of by Sale
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of impaired assets	600
Property and equipment	60	60
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	300
Gain on disposition of assets	$ 200
Disposed of by Sale | General and Administrative Expense
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges		$ 300	$ 400	$ 100

Fair Value Measurements - Estim

Fair Value Measurements - Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended
	Feb. 29, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Investment securities:
Investment securities, restricted, long-term		$ 336	$ 336
Notes Payable:
Short-term borrowings		12,676	0
Subsequent Event | Affiliated Entity
Notes Payable:
Extinguishment of debt, amount	$ 300
Carrying Value
Investment securities:
Investment securities, restricted, long-term		336	336
Cost method investment		2,776	2,776
Notes Payable:
Short-term borrowings		12,676	0
Current portion of notes payable, related parties		1,837	1,479
Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties		13,512	14,431
Highview technology license payable		519	155
Highview technology license payable, long-term		1,038	1,389
Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award		742	0
Fair Value
Investment securities:
Investment securities, restricted, long-term		336	336
Cost method investment		2,776	2,776
Notes Payable:
Short-term borrowings		12,676	0
Current portion of notes payable, related parties		1,457	1,439
Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties		13,273	14,356
Highview technology license payable		519	155
Highview technology license payable, long-term		1,038	1,389
Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award		$ 742	$ 0

Fair Value Measurements - Finan

Fair Value Measurements - Financial Instruments Carried and Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	$ 336	$ 336
Recurring Basis
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	336	336
Total assets at fair value	336	336
Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award	742
Total liabilities at fair value	742
Recurring Basis | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	0	0
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award	0
Total liabilities at fair value	0
Recurring Basis | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	336	336
Total assets at fair value	336	336
Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award	742
Total liabilities at fair value	742
Recurring Basis | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	0	0
Total assets at fair value	0	$ 0
Stock appreciation rights, liability-classified equity award	0
Total liabilities at fair value	$ 0

Fair Value Measurements - Asset

Fair Value Measurements - Assets and Liabilities Measursed on Non-Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets:
Total Losses	$ (2,087)	$ (355)	$ (277)
Nonrecurring Basis
Assets:
Property and equipment	0	424
Impaired note receivable	0	0
Total assets at fair value	0	424
Nonrecurring Basis | General and Administrative Expense
Assets:
Total Gain (Losses), Property and equipment	0	(355)
Total Gain (Losses), Impaired notes receivable	(1,000)	(500)
Total Losses	(1,000)	(855)
Nonrecurring Basis | Level 1
Assets:
Property and equipment	0	0
Impaired note receivable	0	0
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Nonrecurring Basis | Level 2
Assets:
Property and equipment	0	0
Impaired note receivable	0	0
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Nonrecurring Basis | Level 3
Assets:
Property and equipment	0	424
Impaired note receivable	0	0
Total assets at fair value	$ 0	$ 424

Supplemental Financial Inform74

Supplemental Financial Information - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Note receivable		$ 0.5	$ 0.5
Interest rate		8.00%	8.00%
Depreciation expense	$ 1.1

Supplemental Financial Inform75

Supplemental Financial Information - Prepaid expenses and other assets and Other assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other current assets:
Prepaid expenses	$ 2,117	$ 1,573
Inventory	189	630
Other	0	332
Other current assets	2,306	2,535
Other long-term assets:
Deposits	414	638
Intangibles	1,941	2,035
Other long-term assets	341	322
Total	$ 2,696	$ 2,995

Supplemental Financial Inform76

Supplemental Financial Information - Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other current liabilities:
Accrued compensation	$ 369	$ 1,539
Accrued interest	1,042	894
Accrued losses on equipment contracts	759	3,127
Deferred revenue	682	414
Other	3,346	765
Other current liabilities	6,198	6,739
Other long-term liabilities:
Deferred rent	767	1,021
Warranty liabilities	1,197	152
Deferred revenue, related party	2,000	2,000
Other long-term liabilities	2,605	2,838
Other long-term liabilities	$ 6,569	$ 6,011

Supplemental Financial Inform77

Supplemental Financial Information - Asset Retirement Obligation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Asset retirement obligation, beginning of year	$ 1,188	$ 1,130
Accretion	60	58
Asset retirement obligations, end of year	$ 1,248	$ 1,188

Supplemental Financial Inform78

Supplemental Financial Information - Supplemental Income Statement (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
453A interest	$ 4,639	$ 3,371	$ 1,313
RCM6 note payable, related party	2,468	2,245	0
Credit agreement interest	1,180	0	0
Other	115	109	25
Interest expense	$ 8,402	$ 5,725	$ 1,338

Stockholders Equity - Narrative

Stockholders Equity - Narrative (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Mar. 14, 2014	Nov. 20, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Jul. 01, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares	Dec. 16, 2015	Dec. 15, 2015	Feb. 01, 2015$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2014$ / sharesshares
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares outstanding | shares					0				0
Ability to pay dividends, percent of market fair value					50.00%
Stock split, conversion ratio	2		1	1
Common stock par value (in dollars per share)				$ 0.001	$ 0.001			$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Series A Junior Preferred Stock
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Purchase price of one one-thousands of a share								$ 63
Beneficial Ownership Threshold of Company's Common Stock						20.00%	10.00%
Underwritten Public Offering
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Number of shares issued in transaction | shares		1,380,000
Price per share		$ 22.50
Consideration received on transaction | $		$ 29

Stock-Based Compensation - Narr

Stock-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)employee$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)employee$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)employee$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of employees affected | employee	37	17	1
Net increase in share-based compensation	$ 3,400,000	$ 1,000,000
Stock-based compensation expense	7,204,000	4,712,000	$ 2,312,000
Stock-based compensation	$ 6,462,000	$ 4,712,000	$ 2,313,000
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Expected term (in years)	5 years	5 years	5 years
Expiration period	5 years
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 658,000	$ 117,000	$ 48,000
Weighted-average grant-date fair value	800,000	600,000	100,000
Intrinsic value of options exercised	0	4,900,000	800,000
Shares issued as a result of options exercised	$ 0	6,100,000	1,200,000
Stock appreciation rights
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Expected term (in years)	5 years
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 742,000	0	0
Aggregate weighted average grant-date fair value of share granted	$ 0
Exercise price (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 0
Stock appreciation rights | Executive Officer
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 500,000
Exercise price (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 13.87
Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 2,909,000	2,612,000	1,681,000
Aggregate weighted average grant-date fair value of share granted	1,900,000	2,800,000	1,400,000
Fair value of shares vested	$ 2,900,000	$ 1,900,000	$ 700,000
Exercise price (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 17.51	$ 15.75	$ 10.73
Restricted stock awards | Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares accelerated, number (in shares) | shares	95,088	55,106	744
Stock-based compensation	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,000,000	$ 0
Restricted stock awards | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Restricted stock awards | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	5 years
Performance share units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected term (in years)	3 years	3 years	3 years
Service period	3 years
Net increase in share-based compensation	$ 2,100,000	$ 200,000
Stock-based compensation expense	2,895,000	1,983,000	$ 583,000
Aggregate weighted average grant-date fair value of share granted	$ 1,400,000	$ 2,200,000	$ 2,300,000
Exercise price (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 30.52	$ 0	$ 0
Other matters
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Cash received from share-based payment exercises	$ 0	$ 200,000	$ 400,000
2005 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares) | shares	180,000
2005 Plan | Stock compensation plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares per employee (in shares) | shares	2,000
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares) | shares	100,000
2005 Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares per employee (in shares) | shares	10,000
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares) | shares	80,000
Vesting period	3 years
2007 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares per employee (in shares) | shares	400,000
Shares authorized for issuance (in shares) | shares	3,600,000
Maximum number of common shares to be received by participant, percent	200.00%
Maximum reduction in number of common shares to be received by participants, percent	0.00%
Percent of award based on performance of total stockholder return	75.00%
2007 Plan | Non-management Director
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares per employee (in shares) | shares	50,000
2010 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares) | shares	600,000
401 (k) Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares) | shares	600,000

Stock-Based Compensation - Fair

Stock-Based Compensation - Fair Value Assumptions for Stock Options (Details) - Stock options	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	1.80%	1.60%	0.90%
Dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Volatility	74.50%	80.40%	91.00%
Expected term (in years)	5 years	5 years	5 years

Stock-Based Compensation - Fa82

Stock-Based Compensation - Fair Value Assumptions for SAR (Details) - Stock appreciation rights	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	1.80%
Dividend yield	0.00%
Volatility	74.50%
Expected term (in years)	5 years

Stock-Based Compensation - Fa83

Stock-Based Compensation - Fair Value Assumptions for PSU (Details) - Performance share units	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	1.00%	0.80%	0.40%
Dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Volatility	64.30%	74.50%	81.40%
Performance period (in years)	3 years	3 years	3 years

Stock-Based Compensation - Allo

Stock-Based Compensation - Allocation of Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 7,204	$ 4,712	$ 2,312
Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation expense	0	0	0
Net income impact	7,204	4,712	2,312
Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	2,909	2,612	1,681
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	658	117	48
Stock appreciation rights
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	742	0	0
Performance share units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 2,895	$ 1,983	$ 583

Stock-Based Compensation - Summ

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Unrecognized Compensation Cost (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 2,336
Expected Weighted Average Period of Recognition (in years)	8 months 12 days
Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation costs, equity instruments other than options	$ 775
Expected Weighted Average Period of Recognition (in years)	8 months 12 days
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation costs, options	$ 202
Expected Weighted Average Period of Recognition (in years)	10 months 24 days
Stock appreciation rights
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation costs, options	$ 746
Expected Weighted Average Period of Recognition (in years)	3 months 18 days
Performance share units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation costs, equity instruments other than options	$ 613
Expected Weighted Average Period of Recognition (in years)	1 year

Stock-Based Compensation - Su86

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Non-vested Restricted Stock Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 7,204	$ 4,712	$ 2,312
Restricted stock awards
Shares
Non-vested shares, Beginning balance (in shares)	209,921	263,989	254,156
Granted (in shares)	127,943	112,643	82,440
Vested (in shares)	(165,796)	(118,364)	(63,187)
Forfeited (in shares)	(37,360)	(48,347)	(9,420)
Non-vested shares, Ending balance (in shares)	134,708	209,921	263,989
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested shares, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (in usd per share)	$ 13.59	$ 9.05	$ 6.96
Non vested shares granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share)	14.97	24.74	16.88
Vested in period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share)	17.51	15.75	10.73
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share)	19.30	9.49	9.53
Non-vested shares, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (in usd per share)	$ 8.49	$ 13.59	$ 9.05
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 2,909	$ 2,612	$ 1,681
Restricted stock awards | Other
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 100

Stock-Based Compensation - Su87

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Option Activity (Details) - Stock options - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Number of Options Outstanding and Exercisable
Options outstanding, beginning of year (in shares)	74,200	317,576	371,952
Options granted (in shares)	56,250	30,000	10,000
Options exercised (in shares)	0	(260,126)	(54,376)
Options expired / forfeited (in shares)	(24,200)	(13,250)	(10,000)
Options outstanding, end of year (in shares)	106,250	74,200	317,576
Options vested and exercisable (in shares)	82,915	34,199	300,909
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options outstanding, end of year (in usd per shares)	$ 13.76	$ 5.07	$ 5.10
Options granted (in usd per shares)	13.87	20.67	11.93
Options exercised (in usd per shares)	0	4.30	6.51
Options expired / forfeited (in usd per shares)	7.59	6.90	5.10
Options outstanding, end of year (in usd per shares)	15.22	13.76	5.07
Options vested and exercisable,Weighted Average Exercise Price (in usd per shares)	$ 14.04	$ 8.44	$ 4.74
Options outstanding, end of year, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 0	$ 670	$ 7,002
Options outstanding, end of year, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	3 years 9 months 4 days	2 years 11 months 23 days	11 months 27 days
Options vested and exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 0	$ 491	$ 6,734
Options vested and exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	3 years 10 months 17 days	1 year 6 months 26 days	9 months 26 days

Stock-Based Compensation - Su88

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of SARs (Details) - Stock appreciation rights	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Shares
Non-vested shares, Beginning balance (in shares) | shares	0
Granted (in shares) | shares	243,750
Vested (in shares) | shares	0
Forfeited/Canceled (in shares) | shares	0
Non-vested shares, Ending balance (in shares) | shares	243,750
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested shares, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 0
Non vested shares granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share) | $ / shares	13.87
Vested in period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share) | $ / shares	0
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share) | $ / shares	0
Non-vested shares, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 13.87
Aggregate weighted average grant-date fair value of share granted | $	$ 0
SARs outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual term	4 years 6 months
SARs vested and exercisable (in shares) | shares	43,750
SARs vested and exercisable, weighted average exercise price (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 13.87
SARs exercisable, intrinsic value | $	$ 0

Stock-Based Compensation - Su89

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Non-vested PSUs (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 7,204	$ 4,712	$ 2,312
Performance share units
Shares
Non-vested shares, Beginning balance (in shares)	142,357	89,578	0
Granted (in shares)	69,218	57,547	89,578
Vested (in shares)	(13,763)	0	0
Forfeited/Canceled (in shares)	(28,478)	(4,768)	0
Non-vested shares, Ending balance (in shares)	169,334	142,357	89,578
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested shares, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (in usd per share)	$ 30.65	$ 26.04	$ 0
Non vested shares granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share)	20.10	37.45	26.04
Vested in period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share)	30.52	0	0
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in usd per share)	30.44	26.04	0
Non-vested shares, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (in usd per share)	$ 26.38	$ 30.65	$ 26.04
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 2,895	$ 1,983	$ 583
Performance share units | Other
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 200

Stock-Based Compensation Stock-

Stock-Based Compensation Stock-Based Compensation - PSUs Settled (Details) - Performance share units	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015shares
2,013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Withheld to Settle Tax Withholding Obligations	8,768
Shares Withheld to Settle Tax Withholding Obligations	3,954
2013 | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
TSR Multiple Range	1.75
Russell 3000 Multiple	2
2013 | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
TSR Multiple Range	1.75
Russell 3000 Multiple	2
2,014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Withheld to Settle Tax Withholding Obligations	2,506
Shares Withheld to Settle Tax Withholding Obligations	1,145
2014 | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
TSR Multiple Range	0.63
Russell 3000 Multiple	0
2014 | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
TSR Multiple Range	0.75
Russell 3000 Multiple	0.75

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Settlement and Royalty Indemnity, Narrative (Details)	Dec. 31, 2015
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Ability to pay dividends, percent of market fair value	50.00%
Norit Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Ability to pay dividends, percent of market fair value	50.00%

Commitments and Contingencies92

Commitments and Contingencies - Settlement and Royalty Indemnity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation, short-term	$ 6,502	$ 3,749
Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term	13,797	20,273
Total settlement and royalty indemnity	$ 20,299	$ 24,022

Commitments and Contingencies93

Commitments and Contingencies - Consultant Obligation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Legal and professional fees		$ 16,604	$ 14,430	$ 4,534
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Limited guarantees, percent		50.00%
Legal and professional fees		$ 300	$ 1,400	$ 600
Clean Coal Solutions (CCS) | Subsequent Event
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payment for professional fees	$ 300

Commitments and Contingencies94

Commitments and Contingencies - Line of Credit (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity		$ 10
Line of credit facility, interest rate during period	5.00%
Prime Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.00%

Commitments and Contingencies95

Commitments and Contingencies - Letters of Credit (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Commitments [Line Items]
LOC Outstanding	$ 12,034	$ 11,625
Restricted cash	728	2,527
Restricted cash, long-term	10,980	8,771
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	336	336
Letter of Credit [Member]
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity
Expiration of Letters of Credit - Less than 1 year	728
Expiration of Letters of Credit - 1-3 years	5,156
Expiration of Letters of Credit - 4-5 years	6,150
Expiration of Letters of Credit - After 5 years	0
Contract performance - equipment systems
Other Commitments [Line Items]
LOC Outstanding	5,556	7,247
Restricted cash	728	2,527
Restricted cash, long-term	4,830	4,721
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	0	0
Royalty indemnification
Other Commitments [Line Items]
LOC Outstanding	6,150	4,050
Restricted cash	0	0
Restricted cash, long-term	6,150	4,050
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	0	0
Other
Other Commitments [Line Items]
LOC Outstanding	328	328
Restricted cash	0	0
Restricted cash, long-term	0	0
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	$ 336	$ 336

Commitments and Contingencies96

Commitments and Contingencies - Operating Lease Obligations (Details) ft² in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)ft²lease	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Lease And Rental Expense [Line Items]
Square feet under lease | ft²	259
Number of leases | lease	5
2,016	$ 1,506
2,017	1,298
2,018	1,006
2,019	102
2,020	0
Thereafter	0
Total	3,912
Rent expense	$ 1,838	$ 1,531	$ 871
Minimum
Lease And Rental Expense [Line Items]
Operating leases, term of contract	3 years
Maximum
Lease And Rental Expense [Line Items]
Operating leases, term of contract	7 years

Defined Contributions Savings97

Defined Contributions Savings Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
401(K) employer expense
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employer expense	$ 439	$ 509	$ 625

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Allowances against the net deferred tax assets	$ 148,269	$ 98,203
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	$ 50,100

Income Taxes - Income Tax Benef

Income Taxes - Income Tax Benefit (Expense) from Continuing Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current portion of income tax expense:
Federal									$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
State									20	296	463
Current portion of income tax expense									20	296	463
Deferred portion of income tax expense									0	0	0
Total income tax expense	$ (131)	$ 44	$ 63	$ 44	$ 141	$ 113	$ 29	$ 13	$ 20	$ 296	$ 463
Effective tax rate									0.00%	18.00%	(3.00%)

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Expected Federal Income Taxes at Statutory Rates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Amount
Federal statutory rate									$ (10,542)	$ 589	$ (5,435)
State income taxes, net of federal benefit									(781)	31	(1,077)
Disallowed compensation									0	721	0
Permanent differences									35	52	45
Tax credits									(38,998)	(25,607)	(14,727)
Valuation allowances									50,066	23,794	21,843
Changes in state effective rates									(243)	716	0
Share based compensation									487	0	0
Other									(4)	0	(186)
Total income tax expense	$ (131)	$ 44	$ 63	$ 44	$ 141	$ 113	$ 29	$ 13	$ 20	$ 296	$ 463

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Ass

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred tax assets
Settlements	$ 7,807	$ 9,177
Deferred revenues and loss contract provisions	2,899	4,650
Employee related liabilities	4,598	3,643
Intangible assets	1,733	1,070
Equity method investments	7,500	7,507
Net operating loss carryforward	23,193	10,831
Tax credits	97,484	58,486
Deposits on equipment contracts	1,146	2,492
Other	2,118	1,105
Total deferred tax assets	148,478	98,961
Less: Deferred tax liabilities	(148,269)	(98,203)
Property and equipment and other	209	758
Less: Deferred tax liabilities
Property and equipment and other	(209)	(758)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(209)	(758)
Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)	$ 0	$ 0

Income Taxes - Net Operating Lo

Income Taxes - Net Operating Loss Carryforwards and Tax Credit Carryforwards (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Federal
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 59,042
Tax credit carryforwards	97,484
State
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 62,422

Business Segment Information -

Business Segment Information - Segment Operating Results (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)segment	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment	2
Revenues:
Earnings from equity method investments	$ 3,788	$ (41)	$ 4,860	$ 314	$ 20,693	$ 5,603	$ 9,791	$ 6,625	$ 8,921	$ 42,712	$ 15,502
Consulting services									1,752	4,488	6,790
Royalties, related party	2,876	3,273	2,299	2,194	2,154	2,275	849	1,132	10,642	6,410	2,505
Chemicals and other									888	391	749
Total reported revenues	13,202	12,885	14,895	21,757	3,693	9,072	3,175	983	62,739	16,923	13,286
Equipment sales									60,099	12,044	5,747
Segment reporting operating income (loss)
Segment reporting operating income (loss)	$ (7,135)	$ (9,989)	$ (17,778)	$ (6,898)	$ (15,545)	$ (10,279)	$ (8,420)	$ (7,570)	(41,800)	(41,814)	(32,258)
Operating Segments
Revenues:
Total reported revenues									82,302	66,045	31,293
Segment reporting operating income (loss)
Segment reporting operating income (loss)									4,548	28,746	1,733
Segment Reconciling Items
Revenues:
Total reported revenues									62,739	16,923	13,286
Refined Coal | Operating Segments
Revenues:
Earnings from equity method investments									8,921	42,712	15,502
Consulting services									55	665	1,330
Royalties, related party									10,642	6,410	2,505
Total reported revenues									19,618	49,787	19,337
Segment reporting operating income (loss)
Segment reporting operating income (loss)									12,131	42,094	16,227
Refined Coal | Segment Reconciling Items
Revenues:
Earnings from equity method investments									(8,921)	(42,712)	(15,502)
Royalties, related party									(10,642)	(6,410)	(2,505)
Total reported revenues									(19,563)	(49,122)	(18,007)
Emissions Control | Operating Segments
Revenues:
Consulting services									1,697	3,823	5,460
Chemicals and other									888	391	749
Total reported revenues									62,684	16,258	11,956
Equipment sales									60,099	12,044	5,747
Segment reporting operating income (loss)
Segment reporting operating income (loss)									$ (7,583)	$ (13,348)	$ (14,494)

Business Segment Information104

Business Segment Information - Reconciliation of Reportable Segment Amounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment reporting operating income (loss)	$ (7,135)	$ (9,989)	$ (17,778)	$ (6,898)	$ (15,545)	$ (10,279)	$ (8,420)	$ (7,570)	$ (41,800)	$ (41,814)	$ (32,258)
Corporate payroll and benefits									23,589	20,767	16,228
Corporate rent and occupancy									3,309	2,468	2,128
Corporate legal and professional fees									16,604	14,430	4,534
Corporate general and administrative									6,104	6,066	4,101
Corporate depreciation and amortization									2,019	1,865	1,648
Interest income									24	74	109
Other income (expense)									494	26	(44)
Income tax (expense) benefit	131	(44)	(63)	(44)	(141)	(113)	(29)	(13)	(20)	(296)	(463)
Net income (loss)	$ (2,908)	$ (8,654)	$ (12,447)	$ (6,132)	$ 4,677	$ (3,699)	$ 992	$ (583)	(30,141)	1,387	(15,987)
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment reporting operating income (loss)									4,548	28,746	1,733
Segment Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Corporate payroll and benefits									(14,842)	(12,621)	(10,898)
Corporate rent and occupancy									(707)	(694)	(593)
Corporate legal and professional fees									(15,199)	(9,514)	(2,563)
Corporate general and administrative									(3,640)	(3,980)	(2,961)
Corporate depreciation and amortization									(578)	(354)	(307)
Interest income									24	74	109
Other income (expense)									273	26	(44)
Income tax (expense) benefit									$ (20)	$ (296)	$ (463)

Business Segment Information105

Business Segment Information - Segment Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 60,775	$ 93,699
Operating Segments | Refined Coal
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	19,507	21,322
Operating Segments | Emissions Control
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	31,467	51,891
All Other and Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 9,801	$ 20,486

Major Customers - Sales to Unaf

Major Customers - Sales to Unaffiliated Customers (Details) - Sales	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Customer A
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Major customer percentage	16.00%	37.00%	2.00%
Customer B
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Major customer percentage	2.00%	24.00%	0.00%
Customer C
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Major customer percentage	0.00%	1.00%	11.00%
Customer D
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Major customer percentage	11.00%	8.00%	12.00%
Customer E
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Major customer percentage	0.00%	0.00%	25.00%
Customer F
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Major customer percentage	15.00%	0.00%	0.00%

Quarterly Financial Results 107

Quarterly Financial Results (unaudited) - Summary (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Mar. 14, 2014	Jul. 01, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Revenues			$ 13,202	$ 12,885	$ 14,895	$ 21,757	$ 3,693	$ 9,072	$ 3,175	$ 983	$ 62,739	$ 16,923	$ 13,286
Cost of revenues, exclusive of operating expenses shown below			7,224	10,610	14,003	15,715	2,903	6,512	1,754	451
Other operating expenses			13,113	12,264	18,670	12,940	16,335	12,839	9,841	8,102
Operating loss			(7,135)	(9,989)	(17,778)	(6,898)	(15,545)	(10,279)	(8,420)	(7,570)	(41,800)	(41,814)	(32,258)
Earnings (loss) from equity method investments			3,788	(41)	4,860	314	20,693	5,603	9,791	6,625	8,921	42,712	15,502
Royalties, related party			2,876	3,273	2,299	2,194	2,154	2,275	849	1,132	10,642	6,410	2,505
Other income (expenses), net			(2,568)	(1,853)	(1,765)	(1,698)	(2,484)	(1,185)	(1,199)	(757)
Income (loss) before income tax expense			(3,039)	(8,610)	(12,384)	(6,088)	4,818	(3,586)	1,021	(570)	(30,121)	1,683	(15,524)
Income tax expense			(131)	44	63	44	141	113	29	13	20	296	463
Net income (loss)			$ (2,908)	$ (8,654)	$ (12,447)	$ (6,132)	$ 4,677	$ (3,699)	$ 992	$ (583)	$ (30,141)	$ 1,387	$ (15,987)
Net income (loss) per common share – basic (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)
Net income (loss) per common share – diluted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares) | shares			21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,563	21,536	21,477	21,465	21,773	21,554	20,103
Diluted (in shares) | shares			21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,947	21,536	22,035	21,465	21,773	22,079	20,103
Stock split, conversion ratio	2	1											1

Reorganization (Details)

Reorganization (Details)	Mar. 14, 2014	Jul. 01, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares	Feb. 01, 2015$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2014$ / sharesshares
Reorganizations [Abstract]
Stock split, conversion ratio	2	1	1
Common stock, shares authorized | shares			100,000,000	100,000,000		100,000,000
Common stock, par value | $ / shares			$ 0.001	$ 0.001	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized | shares			50,000,000	50,000,000		50,000,000
Preferred stock par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 0.001	$ 0.001		$ 0.001

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condense109

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information Narrative (Details) - Disposed of by Sale - RMC6, LLC (RCM6) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Mar. 03, 2016	Jan. 01, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Disposal group, consideration	$ 1,773		$ 1,773
Tax credit, investment, amount	$ 5,500
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent		24.95%

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condense110

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information Balance Sheet (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Jan. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 9,265		$ 25,181	$ 37,890	$ 7,741
Receivables, net	8,361		16,594
Receivables, related parties, net	1,918		1,439
Restricted cash	728		2,527
Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	2,137		6,153
Prepaid expenses and other assets	2,306		2,535
Total current assets	24,715		54,429
Restricted cash, long-term	10,980		8,771
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,557 and $5,924, respectively	2,040		4,808
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	336		336
Cost method investment	2,776		2,776
Equity method investments	17,232		19,584
Other assets	2,696		2,995
Total Assets	60,775		93,699
Accounts payable	6,174		7,514
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	5,800		5,158
Current portion of notes payable, related parties	1,837		1,479
Short-term borrowings	12,676		0
Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts	9,708		22,518
Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation	6,502		3,749
Other current liabilities	6,198		6,739
Total current liabilities	48,895		47,157
Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties	13,512		14,431
Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term	13,797		20,273
Advance deposit, related party	2,980		6,524
Other long-term liabilities	6,569		6,011
Total Liabilities	$ 85,753		$ 94,396
Commitments and contingencies
Preferred stock	$ 0		$ 0
Common stock	22		22
Additional paid-in capital	116,029		110,169
Accumulated deficit	(141,029)		(110,888)
Total stockholders’ deficit	(24,978)		(697)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit	60,775		$ 93,699
Disposed of by Sale | RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Equity method investments		$ 15,435
ADES Historical
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	9,265
Receivables, net	8,361
Receivables, related parties, net	1,918
Restricted cash	728
Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	2,137
Prepaid expenses and other assets	2,306
Total current assets	24,715
Restricted cash, long-term	10,980
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,557 and $5,924, respectively	2,040
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	336
Cost method investment	2,776
Equity method investments	17,232
Other assets	2,696
Total Assets	60,775
Accounts payable	6,174
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	5,800
Current portion of notes payable, related parties	1,837
Short-term borrowings	12,676
Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts	9,708
Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation	6,502
Other current liabilities	6,198
Total current liabilities	48,895
Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties	13,512
Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term	13,797
Advance deposit, related party	2,980
Other long-term liabilities	6,569
Total Liabilities	$ 85,753
Commitments and contingencies
Preferred stock	$ 0
Common stock	22
Additional paid-in capital	116,029
Accumulated deficit	(141,029)
Total stockholders’ deficit	(24,978)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit	60,775
Pro Forma adjustments related to RCM6 Disposition | Disposed of by Sale | RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	1,773
Receivables, net	0
Receivables, related parties, net	0
Restricted cash	0
Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	0
Prepaid expenses and other assets	0
Total current assets	1,773
Restricted cash, long-term	0
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,557 and $5,924, respectively	0
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	0
Cost method investment	0
Equity method investments	(13,264)
Other assets	0
Total Assets	(11,491)
Accounts payable	0
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	0
Current portion of notes payable, related parties	(1,207)
Short-term borrowings	0
Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts	0
Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation	0
Other current liabilities	0
Total current liabilities	(1,207)
Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties	(13,023)
Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term	0
Advance deposit, related party	0
Other long-term liabilities	0
Total Liabilities	$ (14,230)
Commitments and contingencies
Preferred stock	$ 0
Common stock	0
Additional paid-in capital	0
Accumulated deficit	2,739
Total stockholders’ deficit	2,739
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit	(11,491)
ADES Pro Forma
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	11,038
Receivables, net	8,361
Receivables, related parties, net	1,918
Restricted cash	728
Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	2,137
Prepaid expenses and other assets	2,306
Total current assets	26,488
Restricted cash, long-term	10,980
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,557 and $5,924, respectively	2,040
Investment securities, restricted, long-term	336
Cost method investment	2,776
Equity method investments	3,968
Other assets	2,696
Total Assets	49,284
Accounts payable	6,174
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	5,800
Current portion of notes payable, related parties	630
Short-term borrowings	12,676
Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts	9,708
Settlement and royalty indemnity obligation	6,502
Other current liabilities	6,198
Total current liabilities	47,688
Long-term portion of notes payable, related parties	489
Settlement and royalty indemnification, long-term	13,797
Advance deposit, related party	2,980
Other long-term liabilities	6,569
Total Liabilities	$ 71,523
Commitments and contingencies
Preferred stock	$ 0
Common stock	22
Additional paid-in capital	116,029
Accumulated deficit	(138,290)
Total stockholders’ deficit	(22,239)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit	$ 49,284

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condense111

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information Statement of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Equipment sales									$ 60,099	$ 12,044	$ 5,747
Consulting services									1,752	4,488	6,790
Chemicals and other									888	391	749
Total revenues	$ 13,202	$ 12,885	$ 14,895	$ 21,757	$ 3,693	$ 9,072	$ 3,175	$ 983	62,739	16,923	13,286
Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									45,433	9,277	9,459
Consulting services cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									1,518	2,203	3,827
Chemical and other cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									601	140	382
Payroll and benefits									23,589	20,767	16,228
Rent and occupancy									3,309	2,468	2,128
Legal and professional fees									16,604	14,430	4,534
General and administrative									6,104	6,066	4,101
Research and development, net									5,362	1,521	3,237
Depreciation and amortization									2,019	1,865	1,648
Total operating expenses									104,539	58,737	45,544
Operating loss	(7,135)	(9,989)	(17,778)	(6,898)	(15,545)	(10,279)	(8,420)	(7,570)	(41,800)	(41,814)	(32,258)
Earnings from equity method investments	3,788	(41)	4,860	314	20,693	5,603	9,791	6,625	8,921	42,712	15,502
Royalties, related party	2,876	3,273	2,299	2,194	2,154	2,275	849	1,132	10,642	6,410	2,505
Interest income									24	74	109
Interest expense									(8,402)	(5,725)	(1,338)
Other									494	26	(44)
Total other income (expense), net									11,679	43,497	16,734
Income (loss) before income tax expense	(3,039)	(8,610)	(12,384)	(6,088)	4,818	(3,586)	1,021	(570)	(30,121)	1,683	(15,524)
Income tax expense	(131)	44	63	44	141	113	29	13	20	296	463
Net income (loss)	$ (2,908)	$ (8,654)	$ (12,447)	$ (6,132)	$ 4,677	$ (3,699)	$ 992	$ (583)	$ (30,141)	$ 1,387	$ (15,987)
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.13)	$ (0.40)	$ (0.57)	$ (0.28)	$ 0.21	$ (0.17)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ (1.37)	$ 0.06	$ (0.78)
Basic (in shares)	21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,563	21,536	21,477	21,465	21,773	21,554	20,103
Diluted (in shares)	21,676	21,687	21,715	21,696	21,947	21,536	22,035	21,465	21,773	22,079	20,103
ADES Historical
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Equipment sales									$ 60,099
Consulting services									1,752
Chemicals and other									888
Total revenues									62,739
Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									45,433
Consulting services cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									1,518
Chemical and other cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									601
Payroll and benefits									23,589
Rent and occupancy									3,309
Legal and professional fees									16,604
General and administrative									6,104
Research and development, net									5,362
Depreciation and amortization									2,019
Total operating expenses									104,539
Operating loss									(41,800)
Earnings from equity method investments									8,921
Royalties, related party									10,642
Interest income									24
Interest expense									(8,402)
Other									494
Total other income (expense), net									11,679
Income (loss) before income tax expense									(30,121)
Income tax expense									20
Net income (loss)									$ (30,141)
Basic (in dollars per share)									$ (1.37)
Diluted (in dollars per share)									$ (1.37)
Basic (in shares)									21,773
Diluted (in shares)									21,773
Pro Forma adjustments related to RCM6 Disposition | Disposed of by Sale | RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Equipment sales									$ 0
Consulting services									0
Chemicals and other									0
Total revenues									0
Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									0
Consulting services cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									0
Chemical and other cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									0
Payroll and benefits									0
Rent and occupancy									0
Legal and professional fees									0
General and administrative									0
Research and development, net									0
Depreciation and amortization									0
Total operating expenses									0
Operating loss									0
Earnings from equity method investments									4,568
Royalties, related party									0
Interest income									0
Interest expense									2,468
Other									524
Total other income (expense), net									7,560
Income (loss) before income tax expense									7,560
Income tax expense									0
Net income (loss)									7,560
ADES Pro Forma
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Equipment sales									60,099
Consulting services									1,752
Chemicals and other									888
Total revenues									62,739
Equipment sales cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									45,433
Consulting services cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									1,518
Chemical and other cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization									601
Payroll and benefits									23,589
Rent and occupancy									3,309
Legal and professional fees									16,604
General and administrative									6,104
Research and development, net									5,362
Depreciation and amortization									2,019
Total operating expenses									104,539
Operating loss									(41,800)
Earnings from equity method investments									13,489
Royalties, related party									10,642
Interest income									24
Interest expense									(5,934)
Other									1,018
Total other income (expense), net									19,239
Income (loss) before income tax expense									(22,561)
Income tax expense									20
Net income (loss)									$ (22,581)
Basic (in dollars per share)									$ (1.04)
Diluted (in dollars per share)									$ (1.04)
Basic (in shares)									21,773
Diluted (in shares)									21,773

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condense112

Unaudited Pro-Forma Condensed Financial Information Calculation of Proforma Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Jan. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Equity method investments	$ 17,232		$ 19,584
Disposed of by Sale | RMC6, LLC (RCM6)
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash received upon RCM6 Disposition	1,773	$ 1,773
Note payable balance - as of January 1, 2015		14,186
Subtotal		15,959
Equity method investments		$ 15,435
Estimated pro forma gain for the year ended December 31, 2015	$ 524

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) ft² in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Mar. 30, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 03, 2016USD ($)	Oct. 22, 2015USD ($)	Apr. 18, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)ft²	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)ft²	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Restructuring charges									$ 10,372	$ 3,503	$ 60
Employee Severance
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Payments for restructuring									$ 7,595	$ 1,842	$ 31
Term Loan
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Effective interest rate			10.50%
Restricted cash			$ 3,000
Debt issuance costs			$ 1,500
Forecast
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Reduction in future minimum commitments							$ 200	$ 400
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Rented area | ft²					207	207
Contract termination fee						$ 250
Subsequent Event | Employee Severance
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of positions eliminated, period percent				30.00%
Subsequent Event | Employee Severance | Minimum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Restructuring charges				$ 600
Payments for restructuring				600
Subsequent Event | Employee Severance | Maximum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Restructuring charges				900
Payments for restructuring				$ 900
Subsequent Event | Term Loan
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Effective interest rate	15.00%
Restricted cash	$ 3,500
Debt issuance costs	$ 600
Subsequent Event | RMC6, LLC (RCM6) | Disposed of by Sale
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Ownership percentage sold		24.95%
Net sales proceeds, including proceeds received by third parties		$ 1,800
Subsequent Event | DSI Business Owner note payable
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Extinguishment of debt, amount					$ (300)
Gains on extinguishment of debt						$ 800