Genie Energy (GNE) 10-Q 12 Nov 13 2013 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Nov. 07, 2013	Nov. 07, 2013
		Class A common stock	Class B common stock
Entity Registrant Name	'Genie Energy Ltd.	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001528356	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'	'
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Non-accelerated Filer	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	1,574,326	19,625,948

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$71,847	$69,409
Restricted cash-short-term	10,469	10,841
Certificates of deposit	5,339	2,205
Marketable securities	401	10,485
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $130 at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012	39,133	40,932
Inventory	3,478	2,644
Prepaid expenses	2,663	3,315
Deferred income tax assets	599	599
Other current assets	1,755	771
Total current assets	135,684	141,201
Property and equipment, net	583	409
Goodwill	3,663	3,663
Restricted cash-long-term	1,039	2
Other assets	5,207	5,031
Total assets	146,176	150,306
Current liabilities:	'	'
Trade accounts payable	17,565	20,641
Accrued expenses	7,719	7,832
Advances from customers	1,074	1,472
Income taxes payable	1,936	1,244
Dividends payable	'	211
Due to IDT Corporation	521	600
Other current liabilities	827	209
Total current liabilities	29,642	32,209
Other liabilities	225	'
Total liabilities	29,867	32,209
Commitments and contingencies	'	'
Genie Energy Ltd. stockholders' equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $.01 par value; authorized shares-10,000: Series 2012-A, designated shares-8,750; at liquidation preference, consisting of 1,917 and 1,605 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively	16,303	13,639
Additional paid-in capital	82,710	80,196
Treasury stock, at cost, consisting of 59 and 27 shares of Class B common stock at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively	-473	-204
Accumulated other comprehensive income	619	270
Retained earnings	22,340	28,375
Total Genie Energy Ltd. stockholders' equity	121,712	122,490
Noncontrolling interests:	'	'
Noncontrolling interests	-4,403	-3,393
Receivable for issuance of equity	-1,000	-1,000
Total noncontrolling interests	-5,403	-4,393
Total equity	116,309	118,097
Total liabilities and equity	146,176	150,306
Class A common stock	'	'
Genie Energy Ltd. stockholders' equity:	'	'
Common stock, value	16	16
Class B common stock	'	'
Genie Energy Ltd. stockholders' equity:	'	'
Common stock, value	$197	$198

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Allowance for doubtful accounts, trade accounts receivable (in dollars)	$130	$130
Preferred stock, par value (In dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000	10,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	1,917	1,605
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	1,917	1,605
Series 2012-A Preferred Stock	'	'
Designated shares	8,750	8,750
Class A common stock	'	'
Common stock, par value (In dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	35,000	35,000
Common stock, shares issued	1,574	1,574
Common stock, shares outstanding	1,574	1,574
Class B common stock	'	'
Common stock, par value (In dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	200,000	200,000
Common stock, shares issued	19,685	19,827
Common stock, shares outstanding	19,626	19,800
Treasury stock, shares	59	27

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012		Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012
Statements of Operations [Abstract]	'		'		'		'
Revenues	$71,638		$63,725		$212,103		$164,056
Direct cost of revenues	-51,699		-42,285		-163,179		-112,936
Gross profit	19,939		21,440		48,924		51,120
Operating expenses and losses:	'		'		'		'
Selling, general and administrative (i)	12,666	[1]	15,199	[1]	37,572	[1]	40,572	[1]
Research and development	2,653		2,264		7,734		7,141
Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC	672		508		2,607		2,252
Income from operations	3,948		3,469		1,011		1,155
Interest income	59		164		351		275
Financing fees	-729		-732		-2,524		-2,097
Other expense, net	-159		-11		-344		-95
Income (loss) before income taxes	3,119		2,890		-1,506		-762
Provision for income taxes	-1,077		-3,974		-2,717		-2,833
Net income (loss)	2,042		-1,084		-4,223		-3,595
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-51		-1,557		-1,197		-1,694
Net income (loss) attributable to Genie Energy Ltd.	1,991		-2,641		-5,420		-5,289
Dividends on preferred stock	-306		'		-917		'
Net income (loss) attributable to Genie Energy Ltd. common stockholders.	$1,685		($2,641)		($6,337)		($5,289)
Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Genie Energy Ltd. common stockholders:	'		'		'		'
Basic	$0.09		($0.13)		($0.33)		($0.25)
Diluted	$0.08		($0.13)		($0.33)		($0.25)
Weighted-average number of shares used in calculation of earnings (loss) per share:	'		'		'		'
Basic	19,384		21,037		19,413		21,025
Diluted	21,089		21,037		19,413		21,025
Dividends declared per common share	'		$0.05		'		$0.13
[1]	(i) Stock-based compensation included in selling, general and administrative expenses

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope1

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statements of Operations [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation	$1,064	$973	$3,155	$2,614

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statements Of Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net loss	$2,042	($1,084)	($4,223)	($3,595)
Other comprehensive income:	'	'	'	'
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax	59	-31	15	-25
Foreign currency translation adjustments	176	143	321	70
Other comprehensive income	235	112	336	45
Comprehensive income (loss)	2,277	-972	-3,887	-3,550
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-48	-1,557	-1,184	-1,677
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Genie Energy Ltd.	$2,229	($2,529)	($5,071)	($5,227)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating activities	'	'
Net loss	($4,223)	($3,595)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation	80	91
Deferred income taxes	'	4,587
Stock-based compensation	3,155	2,614
Loss on disposal of property	37	'
Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC	2,607	2,252
Change in assets and liabilities:	'	'
Restricted cash	-665	280
Trade accounts receivable	1,799	-9,567
Inventory	-834	1,296
Prepaid expenses	651	1,264
Other current assets and other assets	-950	-1,084
Trade accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities	-2,556	4,508
Advances from customers	-399	398
Due to IDT Corporation	-78	-182
Income taxes payable	693	-1,709
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	-683	1,153
Investing activities	'	'
Capital expenditures	-300	-64
Capital contributions to AMSO, LLC	-2,345	-2,925
Issuance of note receivable	-375	-650
Purchases of licenses and security deposit	'	-175
Purchases of certificates of deposit	-5,330	-2,205
Proceeds from maturities of certificates of deposit	2,205	'
Purchase of marketable securities	-3	-11,484
Proceeds from maturities and sale of marketable securities	10,033	'
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	3,885	-17,503
Financing activities	'	'
Increase in restricted cash	'	-10,010
Dividends paid	-826	-4,205
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	53	5
Repurchases of Class B common stock from employees	-270	-133
Net cash used in financing activities	-1,043	-14,343
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	279	-8
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	2,438	-30,701
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	69,409	102,220
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$71,847	$71,519

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Note 1—Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Genie Energy Ltd. and its subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Genie”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2013. The balance sheet at December 31, 2012 has been derived from the Company’s audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. For further information, please refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).
	Genie owns 99.3% of its subsidiary, Genie Energy International Corporation (“GEIC”), which owns 100% of IDT Energy and 92% of Genie Oil and Gas, Inc. (“GOGAS”). IDT Energy has outstanding deferred stock units granted to directors and employees that represent an interest of 2.3% of the equity of IDT Energy. Genie’s principal businesses consist of the following:
		·	IDT Energy, a retail energy provider (“REP”) supplying electricity and natural gas to residential and small business customers in the Northeastern United States; and
		·	Genie Oil and Gas, which is pioneering technologies to produce clean and affordable transportation fuels from the world's abundant oil shales and other fuel resources, which consists of (1) American Shale Oil Corporation (“AMSO”), which holds and manages a 50% interest in American Shale Oil, L.L.C. (“AMSO, LLC”), the Company’s oil shale project in Colorado, (2) an 88.6% interest in Israel Energy Initiatives, Ltd. (“IEI”), the Company’s oil shale project in Israel, (3) an 89% interest in Afek Oil and Gas, Ltd. (formerly Genie Israel Oil and Gas, Ltd.) (“Afek”), the Company’s conventional oil and gas exploration project in the southern portion of the Golan Heights, and (4) Genie Mongolia, the Company’s oil shale exploration project in Central Mongolia.
	Seasonality and Weather
	IDT Energy’s revenues are impacted by, among other things, the weather and the seasons. Weather conditions have a significant impact on the demand for natural gas for heating and electricity for air conditioning. Typically, colder winters and hotter summers increase demand for natural gas and electricity, respectively. Milder winters and/or summers have the opposite effect. Natural gas revenues typically increase in the first quarter due to increased heating demands, and electricity revenues typically increase in the third quarter due to increased air conditioning use. Approximately 47% and 50% of IDT Energy’s natural gas revenues were generated in the first quarter of 2012 and 2011, respectively, when demand for heating was highest. Although the demand for electricity is not as seasonal as natural gas, approximately 34% and 35% of IDT Energy’s electricity revenues were generated in the third quarter of 2012 and 2011, respectively. As a result, the Company’s revenues and operating income are subject to material seasonal variations, and the interim financial results are not necessarily indicative of the estimated financial results for the full year.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Note 2—Fair Value Measurements
	The following table presents the balance of assets and liabilities at September 30, 2013 measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
		Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)			Level 3 (3)		Total
		(in thousands)
	Assets:
	Corporate debt securities	$	401	$	—		$	—	$	401
	Derivative contracts		—		446			634		1,080
	Total	$	401	$	446		$	634	$	1,481
	Liabilities:
	Derivative contracts	$	—	$	183		$	575	$	758
	(1) – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
	(2) – observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities
	(3) – no observable pricing inputs in the market
	The Company’s derivative contracts consist of put and call options and natural gas and electricity future contracts in which the underlying asset is a forward contract, which are classified as either Level 2 or Level 3. The Level 2 derivatives are valued using observable inputs based on quoted market prices in active markets for similar contracts. The fair value of the Level 3 derivatives was based on the value of the underlying contracts, estimated in conjunction with the counterparty and could not be corroborated by the market.
	The Company’s subsidiary, GOGAS, issued a stock option in June 2011 that is exercisable until April 9, 2015 at an exercise price of $5.0 million. At September 30, 2013, the fair value of the GOGAS stock option was nil.
	There were no assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. The following table summarizes the change in the balance of the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013:
		Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
		30-Sep-13					30-Sep-13
		Assets		Liabilities			Assets		Liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of period	$	299	$	(20	)	$	—	$	—
	Total gains (losses) (realized or unrealized) included in earnings in “Direct cost of revenues”		335		(555	)		275		(575	)
	Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements:
	Purchases		—		—			359		—
	Transfers in (out) of Level 3		—		—			—		—
	Balance, end of period	$	634	$	(575	)	$	634	$	(575	)
	The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings in “Direct cost of revenues” attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities held at the end of the period	$	354	$	(575	)	$	325	$	(575	)
	Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments
	The estimated fair value of the Company’s other financial instruments was determined using available market information or other appropriate valuation methodologies. However, considerable judgment is required in interpreting this data to develop estimates of fair value. Consequently, the estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized or would be paid in a current market exchange.
	At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the carrying amounts of the Company’s financial instruments included in restricted cash—short-term, certificates of deposit, prepaid expenses, other current assets, advances from customers, dividends payable, due to IDT Corporation and other current liabilities approximated fair value because of the short period of time to maturity. The fair value estimates for restricted cash—short-term were classified as Level 1 and certificates of deposit, prepaid expenses, other current assets, advances from customers, dividends payable, due to IDT Corporation and other current liabilities were classified as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
	At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the carrying amount of restricted cash—long-term approximated fair value. The fair value was estimated based on the anticipated cash flows once the restrictions are removed, which was classified as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
	At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, other assets included an aggregate of $0.9 million and $0.7 million, respectively, in notes receivable primarily from employees. The carrying amounts of the notes receivable approximated fair value. The fair value of the notes receivable was estimated based on the Company’s assumptions, and were classified as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Marketable_Securities

Marketable Securities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Marketable Securities [Abstract]	'
Marketable Securities	'
	Note 3—Marketable Securities
	The following is a summary of marketable securities:
		Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale securities:
	September 30, 2013:
	Corporate debt securities	$	401	$	—	$	—		$	401
	December 31, 2012:
	Corporate debt securities	$	10,500	$	35	$	(50	)	$	10,485
	Proceeds from maturities and sale of available-for-sale securities were $3.5 million and $10.0 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively. There were no maturities or sales of available-for-sale securities in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. There were no realized gains or losses from sales of available-for-sale securities in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. The Company uses the specific identification method in computing the gross realized gains and gross realized losses on the sales of marketable securities.
	The contractual maturities of the Company’s available-for-sale corporate debt securities at September 30, 2013 were as follows:
		Fair Value
		(in thousands)
	Within one year	$	401
	After one year through five years		—
	After five years through ten years		—
	After ten years		—
	Total	$	401
	The following available-for-sale securities were in an unrealized loss position for which other-than-temporary impairments had not been recognized:
		Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
		(in thousands)
	December 31, 2012:
	Corporate debt securities	$	50	$	2,500
	At December 31, 2012, there were no securities in a continuous unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer.

Derivative_Instruments

Derivative Instruments

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments [Abstract]

'

Derivative Instruments

'

Note 4—Derivative Instruments

The primary risk managed by the Company using derivative instruments is commodity price risk. Natural gas and electricity put and call options and future contracts are entered into as hedges against unfavorable fluctuations in market prices of natural gas and electricity. The Company does not apply hedge accounting to IDT Energy’s contracts and options, therefore the changes in fair value are recorded in earnings. At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, IDT Energy’s contracts and options were traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange or were over-the-counter bilateral agreements with BP Energy Company.

The summarized volume of IDT Energy’s outstanding contracts and options as of September 30, 2013 was as follows:

Commodity

Settlement Dates

Volume

Electricity

Dec-13

88,340 MWh

Electricity

Jan-14

44,000 MWh

Electricity

Feb-14

40,000 MWh

Electricity

Jul-14

52,800 MWh

Electricity

Aug-14

50,400 MWh

Electricity

Sep-14

16,800 MWh

Natural gas

Nov-13

150,000 Dth

Natural gas

Dec-13

775,000 Dth

Natural gas

Jan-14

375,000 Dth

Natural gas

Feb-14

1,425,000 Dth

Natural gas

Mar-14

225,000 Dth

Natural gas

Jul-14

77,500 Dth

The fair value of outstanding derivative instruments recorded as assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows:

Asset Derivatives

Balance Sheet Location

30-Sep-13

31-Dec-12

(in thousands)

Derivatives not designated or not qualifying as hedging instruments:

Energy contracts and options

Other current assets

$

1,080

$

308

The fair value of outstanding derivative instruments recorded as liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows:

Liability Derivatives

Balance Sheet Location

30-Sep-13

31-Dec-12

(in thousands)

Derivatives not designated or not qualifying as hedging instruments:

Energy contracts and options

Other current liabilities

$

758

$

152

The effects of derivative instruments on the consolidated statements of operations were as follows:

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on Derivatives

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

September 30,

Derivatives not designated

Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized on

2013

2012

2013

2012

or not qualifying as

Derivatives

hedging instruments

(in thousands)

Energy contracts and options

Direct cost of revenues

$

(426

)

$

(17

)

$

(394

)

$

(101

)

Investment_in_American_Shale_O

Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Investment In American Shale Oil, Llc [Abstract]	'
Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC	'
	Note 5—Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC
	The Company accounts for its 50% ownership interest in AMSO, LLC using the equity method since the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence over its operating and financial matters, although it does not control AMSO, LLC. AMSO, LLC is a variable interest entity, however, the Company has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary, as the Company does not have the power to direct the activities of AMSO, LLC that most significantly impact AMSO, LLC’s economic performance.
	AMSO has agreed to fund AMSO, LLC’s expenditures as follows: 20% of the initial $50 million of expenditures, 35% of the next $50 million in approved expenditures and 50% of approved expenditures in excess of $100 million. AMSO has also agreed to fund 40% of the costs of the one-time payment for conversion of AMSO, LLC’s research, development and demonstration lease to a commercial lease, in the event AMSO, LLC’s application for conversion is approved. The remaining amounts are to be funded by Total S.A. (“Total”). As of September 30, 2013, the cumulative contributions of AMSO and Total to AMSO, LLC were $68.0 million. AMSO’s allocated share of the net loss of AMSO, LLC, which is currently 35%, is included in “Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC” in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
	The following table summarizes the change in the balance of the Company’s investment in AMSO, LLC:
		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of period	$	242		$	(685	)
	Capital contributions		2,345			2,925
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		(2,607	)		(2,252	)
	Balance, end of period	$	(20	)	$	(12	)
	At September 30, 2013, the liability for the equity loss in AMSO, LLC was included in “Accrued expenses” in the consolidated balance sheet. At December 31, 2012, the investment in AMSO, LLC was included in “Other assets” in the consolidated balance sheet.
	AMSO’s share of AMSO, LLC’s approved budget for the year ending December 31, 2013 is $4.2 million, although the Company currently anticipates that total expenditures for 2013 will be below budget. At September 30, 2013, AMSO had funded $2.3 million of its share of the 2013 budget. In October 2013, AMSO contributed $0.4 million to AMSO, LLC. The Company anticipates that AMSO’s total contributions for 2013 will not exceed $2.7 million. AMSO is obligated to fund its share of the expenditures it approves in accordance with the agreement between the parties.
	Either Total or AMSO may terminate its obligations to make capital contributions and withdraw as a member of AMSO, LLC. Although, subject to certain exceptions, AMSO and Total are not obligated to make additional contributions beyond their respective shares, they could dilute or forfeit their ownership interests in AMSO, LLC if they fail to contribute their respective shares of additional funding. The agreements with Total provide for varying consequences for AMSO’s failure to fund its share at different stages of the project, including dilution of AMSO’s interest in AMSO, LLC or paying interest to Total for expenditures they fund on behalf of AMSO. Additionally, even if AMSO were to withdraw its interest in AMSO, LLC, it will remain liable for its share of expenditures for safety and environmental reclamation related to events occurring prior to its withdrawal. AMSO is evaluating its options with respect to funding AMSO, LLC during 2014, and funding of less than its full share would result in dilution of its interest in AMSO, LLC.
	At September 30, 2013, the Company’s maximum exposure to additional loss as a result of its required investment in AMSO, LLC was $1.9 million, based on AMSO, LLC’s 2013 budget. The Company’s maximum exposure to additional loss could increase based on the situations described above. The maximum exposure at September 30, 2013 was determined as follows:
		(in thousands)
	AMSO’s committed investment in AMSO, LLC based on the 2013 budget	$	4,249
	Less: cumulative capital contributions to AMSO, LLC		(2,345	)
	Less: liability for equity loss in AMSO, LLC at September 30, 2013		(20	)
	Maximum exposure to additional loss	$	1,884
	Summarized unaudited statements of operations of AMSO, LLC are as follows:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Operating expenses:
	General and administrative	$	162		$	132		$	435		$	389
	Research and development		1,758			1,320			7,055			6,046
	Loss from operations		1,920			1,452			7,490			6,435
	Other income		—			—			41			—
	Net loss	$	(1,920	)	$	(1,452	)	$	(7,449	)	$	(6,435	)

Equity

Equity	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'
Equity	'
	Note 6—Equity
	Changes in the components of equity were as follows:
			Nine Months Ended
			30-Sep-13
			Attributable to			Noncontrolling			Total
			Genie			Interests
			(in thousands)
	Balance, December 31, 2012		$	122,490		$	(4,393	)	$	118,097
	Accrued dividends on preferred stock			(615	)		—			(615	)
	Restricted Class B common stock purchased from employees for tax withholdings			(270	)		—			(270	)
	Exercise of stock options			53			—			53
	Issuance of Genie Class B common stock to holders of deferred stock units of subsidiary			1,837			(1,837	)		—
	Grants of equity of subsidiaries			357			(357	)		—
	Stock-based compensation			2,931			—			2,931
	Comprehensive (loss) income:
	Net (loss) income			(5,420	)		1,197			(4,223	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)			349			(13	)		336
	Comprehensive (loss) income			(5,071	)		1,184			(3,887	)
	Balance, September 30, 2013		$	121,712		$	(5,403	)	$	116,309
	Dividend Payments
	On February 15, 2013, the Company paid a pro-rated Base Dividend of $0.1317 per share on its Series 2012-A Preferred Stock (“Preferred Stock”) for the fourth quarter of 2012. On May 15, 2013 and on August 15, 2013, the Company paid a quarterly Base Dividend of $0.1594 per share on the Preferred Stock for the first and second quarters of 2013. In October 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly Base Dividend of $0.1594 per share on the Preferred Stock for the third quarter of 2013. The dividend will be paid on or about November 15, 2013 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 4, 2013. The aggregate dividends declared and paid in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 were $0.8 million.
	Stock Repurchase Program
	On March 11, 2013, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a stock repurchase program for the repurchase of up to an aggregate of 7 million shares of the Company’s Class B common stock. At September 30, 2013, no repurchases had been made and 7 million shares remained available for repurchase under the stock repurchase program.
	Exchange Offers and Issuances of Preferred Stock
	On August 2, 2012, the Company initiated an offer to exchange up to 8.75 million outstanding shares of its Class B common stock for the same number of shares of its Preferred Stock. The offer expired on October 10, 2012. On October 17, 2012, the Company issued 1,604,591 shares of its Preferred Stock in exchange for an equal number of shares of Class B common stock tendered in the exchange offer.
	On November 26, 2012, the Company initiated an offer to exchange up to 7.15 million outstanding shares of its Class B common stock for the same number of shares of its Preferred Stock. The offer expired on March 5, 2013. On March 11, 2013, the Company issued 313,376 shares of its Preferred Stock in exchange for an equal number of shares of Class B common stock tendered in the exchange offer.
	Grants and Sales of Equity in Subsidiaries
	Per the terms of his employment agreement, Dr. Harold Vinegar, Chief Scientist of the Company (“Vinegar”), has an option to purchase, at fair value (with reference to the Company’s historical funding), up to 10% of the GOGAS ventures in which he is a key contributor:
	●	In November 2008, Vinegar purchased a 10% interest in IEI. In connection with this purchase, the purchase agreement provides Vinegar with certain no cost anti-dilution protection as follows. If IEI issues certain of its shares in order to raise capital until the capitalization of IEI equals $20 million, IEI shall issue to Vinegar additional shares to maintain his 10% interest in IEI.
	●	In October 2013, the Company completed the sale of 9.5% of the equity in Afek to Vinegar as per the terms of his employment agreement.
	In May 2013, the Company granted 1.0% of the equity in IEI to certain employees of the Company. The grants vested immediately on the date of the grant. The fair value on the date of the grant was estimated to be $0.2 million, which was recognized in May 2013.
	The Company elected to exchange vested deferred stock units of IDT Energy previously granted to employees and directors of the Company for shares of the Company’s Class B common stock upon the vesting of the deferred stock units based on the relative fair value of the shares exchanged. Accordingly, in August 2013, the Company issued 133,758 shares of the Company’s Class B common stock in exchange for 23.6 vested deferred stock units of IDT Energy.
	On November 4, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the grant of 1.0% of the equity in Genie Mongolia to Michael Jonas, Executive Vice President of GOGAS, and the executive managing the Company’s business in Mongolia. Michael Jonas is also the son of Howard Jonas, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company.
	Variable Interest Entity
	In 2011, an employee of IDT Corporation (“IDT”) until his employment was terminated effective December 30, 2011, incorporated Citizens Choice Energy, LLC (“CCE”), which is a REP that resells electricity and natural gas to residential and small business customers in the State of New York. Tari Corporation (“Tari”) is the sole owner of CCE. In addition, DAD Sales, LLC (“DAD”), which is 100% owned by Tari, used its network of door-to-door sales agents to obtain customers for CCE. In December 2012, DAD ceased to acquire customers for CCE. The Company provided CCE, DAD and Tari with substantially all of the cash required to fund their operations. The Company determined that at the present time it has the power to direct the activities of CCE, DAD and Tari that most significantly impact their economic performance and it has the obligation to absorb losses of CCE, DAD and Tari that could potentially be significant to CCE, DAD and Tari on a stand-alone basis. The Company therefore determined that it is the primary beneficiary of CCE, DAD and Tari, and as a result, the Company consolidates CCE, DAD and Tari within its IDT Energy segment. The Company does not own any interest in CCE, DAD or Tari and thus the net income or loss incurred by CCE, DAD and Tari was attributed to noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
	Net income (loss) of CCE, DAD and Tari and aggregate net funding (provided by) repaid to the Company by CCE, DAD and Tari were as follows:
			Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
			September 30,						September 30,
			2013			2012			2013			2012
			(in thousands)
	Net income (loss):
	CCE		$	697		$	1,895		$	2,360		$	2,828
	DAD		$	—		$	(124	)	$	(35	)	$	(313	)
	Tari		$	—		$	61		$	10		$	98
	Aggregate funding (provided by) repaid to the Company, net		$	(601	)	$	(1,069	)	$	3,802		$	553
	Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari are as follows:
			September 30,			December 31,
			2013			2012
			(in thousands)
	Assets
	Cash and cash equivalents		$	1,180		$	1,047
	Restricted cash			56			39
	Trade accounts receivable			2,230			4,168
	Prepaid expenses			406			485
	Other current assets			310			519
	Property and equipment, net			—			38
	Other assets			489			493
	Total assets		$	4,671		$	6,789
	Liabilities and members’ interests
	Current liabilities		$	2,383		$	3,035
	Due to IDT Energy			1,280			5,082
	Noncontrolling interests			1,008			(1,328	)
	Total liabilities and noncontrolling interests		$	4,671		$	6,789
The assets of CCE, DAD and Tari may only be used to settle obligations of CCE, DAD and Tari, and may not be used for other consolidated entities. The liabilities of CCE, DAD and Tari are non-recourse to the general credit of the Company’s other consolidated entities.

Earnings_Loss_Per_Share

Earnings (Loss) Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Genie Energy Ltd. common stockholders:	'
Earnings (Loss) Per Share	'
	Note 7—Earnings (Loss) Per Share
	Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to all classes of common stockholders of the Company by the weighted average number of shares of all classes of common stock outstanding during the applicable period. Diluted earnings per share is computed in the same manner as basic earnings per share, except that the number of shares is increased to include restricted stock still subject to risk of forfeiture and to assume exercise of potentially dilutive stock options using the treasury stock method, unless the effect of such increase is anti-dilutive.
	The weighted-average number of shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to the Company’s common stockholders consists of the following:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Basic weighted-average number of shares		19,384		21,037		19,413		21,025
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options		40		—		—		—
	Non-vested restricted Class B common stock		1,665		—		—		—
	Diluted weighted-average number of shares		21,089		21,037		19,413		21,025
	The following shares were excluded from the diluted loss per share computations because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Stock options		—		457		449		457
	Non-vested restricted Class B common stock		—		1,988		1,785		1,988
	Shares excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share		—		2,445		2,234		2,445
	The dividends on the 1.9 million shares of Preferred Stock outstanding at September 30, 2013 are expected to reduce net income available to common stockholders by $1.2 million each year, compared to periods prior to the issuance of the Preferred Stock.
	An entity affiliated with Lord (Jacob) Rothschild has a one-time option through November 12, 2017 to exchange its GOGAS shares for shares of the Company with equal fair value as determined by the parties. The number of shares issuable in such an exchange is not currently determinable. If this option is exercised, the shares issued by the Company may dilute the earnings per share in future periods.
	An employee of the Company, pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement, has the option to exchange his equity interests in IEI, Afek, and any equity interest that he may acquire in Genie Mongolia or certain other entities that may be created by the Company, for shares of the Company. Employees and directors of the Company that were previously granted restricted stock of IEI have the right to exchange the restricted stock of IEI, upon vesting of such shares, into shares of the Company’s Class B common stock. Also, IDT Energy has the right to exchange the deferred stock units it previously granted to employees and directors of the Company, upon vesting of such units, into shares of the Company’s Class B common stock or to redeem the units for cash. These exchanges, if elected, would be based on the relative fair value of the shares exchanged. The number of shares of the Company’s stock issuable in an exchange is not currently determinable. If shares of the Company’s stock are issued upon such exchange, the Company’s earnings per share may be diluted in future periods.

Related_Party_Transaction

Related Party Transaction	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Abstract]	'
Related Party Transaction	'
	Note 8—Related Party Transaction
	The Company was formerly a subsidiary of IDT. On October 28, 2011, the Company was spun-off by IDT and became an independent public company through a pro rata distribution of the Company’s common stock to IDT’s stockholders (the “Spin-Off”). The Company entered into various agreements with IDT prior to the Spin-Off including a Transition Services Agreement, which provides for certain services to be performed by the Company and IDT.
	Following the Spin-off, IDT charges the Company for services it provides pursuant to the Transition Services Agreement. The charges for these services are included in “Selling, general and administrative” expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
	Pursuant to the Transition Services Agreement, the Company provides specified administrative services to certain of IDT’s foreign subsidiaries. The Company’s charges for these services reduce the Company’s “Selling, general and administrative” expenses.
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Amount IDT charged the Company	$	913	$	974	$	2,363	$	2,517
	Amount the Company charged IDT	$	82	$	20	$	189	$	66

Business_Segment_Information

Business Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Business Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Business Segment Information	'
	Note 9—Business Segment Information
	The Company owns 99.3% of its subsidiary, GEIC, which owns 100% of IDT Energy and 92% of GOGAS. IDT Energy has outstanding deferred stock units granted to directors and employees that represent an interest of 2.3% of the equity of IDT Energy. The Company has two reportable business segments: IDT Energy, a REP supplying electricity and natural gas to residential and small business customers in the Northeastern United States, and Genie Oil and Gas, which is pioneering technologies to produce clean and affordable transportation fuels from the world's abundant oil shales and other fuel resources. The Genie Oil and Gas segment consists of (1) a 50% interest in AMSO, LLC, the Company’s oil shale project in Colorado, (2) an 88.6% interest in IEI, the Company’s oil shale project in Israel, (3) an 89% interest in Afek, the Company’s conventional oil and gas exploration project in the southern portion of the Golan Heights, and (4) Genie Mongolia, the Company’s oil shale exploration project in Central Mongolia. Corporate costs include unallocated compensation, consulting fees, legal fees, business development expenses and other corporate-related general and administrative expenses. Corporate does not generate any revenues, nor does it incur any direct cost of revenues.
	The Company’s reportable segments are distinguished by types of service, customers and methods used to provide their services. The operating results of these business segments are regularly reviewed by the Company’s chief operating decision maker.
	The accounting policies of the segments are the same as the accounting policies of the Company as a whole. The Company evaluates the performance of its business segments based primarily on operating income (loss). There are no significant asymmetrical allocations to segments.
	Operating results for the business segments of the Company were as follows:
	(in thousands)	IDT		Genie Oil and Gas			Corporate			Total
		Energy
	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Revenues	$	71,638	$	—		$	—		$	71,638
	Income (loss) from operations		9,596		(3,699	)		(1,949	)		3,948
	Research and development		—		2,653			—			2,653
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		672			—			672
	Three Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Revenues	$	63,725	$	—		$	—		$	63,725
	Income (loss) from operations		8,679		(3,171	)		(2,039	)		3,469
	Research and development		—		2,264			—			2,264
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		508			—			508
	(in thousands)	IDT		Genie Oil and Gas			Corporate			Total
		Energy
	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Revenues	$	212,103	$	—		$	—		$	212,103
	Income (loss) from operations		18,972		(11,507	)		(6,454	)		1,011
	Research and development		—		7,734			—			7,734
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		2,607			—			2,607
	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Revenues	$	164,056	$	—		$	—		$	164,056
	Income (loss) from operations		17,108		(10,169	)		(5,784	)		1,155
	Research and development		—		7,141			—			7,141
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		2,252			—			2,252
	Total assets for the business segments of the Company were as follows:
	(in thousands)	IDT		Genie Oil and Gas			Corporate			Total
		Energy
	Total assets:
	30-Sep-13	$	68,722	$	37,044		$	40,410		$	146,176
	31-Dec-12	$	65,377	$	36,561		$	48,368		$	150,306

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Note 10—Commitments and Contingencies
	Purchase and Other Commitments
	The Company had purchase commitments of $1.3 million as of September 30, 2013.
	In October 2013, the Company entered into a contract related to Afek’s exploration drilling program pursuant to which the Company’s purchase commitment is currently $0.8 million.
	Tax Audits
	In July 2013, IDT Energy negotiated a settlement of an audit of its New York State sales and use tax for the period from June 2003 through August 2009. As a result, IDT Energy paid $0.9 million in July 2013, all of which was previously accrued.
	The Company is subject to audits in various jurisdictions for various taxes. At September 30, 2013, the Company accrued for the estimated losses from audits for which it is probable that a liability has been incurred. At September 30, 2013, the Company’s reasonably possible liability above the amount accrued was zero to $0.3 million. Amounts asserted by taxing authorities or the amount ultimately assessed against the Company could be greater than the accrued amount. Accordingly, additional provisions may be recorded in the future as revised estimates are made or underlying matters are settled or resolved. Imposition of assessments as a result of tax audits could have an adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
	Letter of Credit
	As of September 30, 2013, the Company had a $2.0 million letter of credit outstanding for the benefit of a regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity. The letter of credit expires in March 2014.
	Performance Bonds
	IDT Energy has performance bonds issued through a third party for the benefit of various states in order to comply with the states’ financial requirements for retail energy providers. At September 30, 2013, IDT Energy had aggregate performance bonds of $3.0 million outstanding.
	Other Contingencies
	Since 2009, IDT Energy has been a party to a Preferred Supplier Agreement with BP Energy Company (“BP”), pursuant to which BP is IDT Energy’s preferred provider of electricity and natural gas. The agreement’s termination date is June 30, 2014, which automatically renews for an additional year unless either party provides written notice to the other party at least six months prior to June 30, 2014 that it will not renew the agreement. Under the arrangement, IDT Energy purchases electricity and natural gas at market rate plus a fee. IDT Energy’s obligations to BP are secured by a first security interest in deposits or receivables from utilities in connection with their purchase of IDT Energy’s customer receivables, and in any cash deposits or letters of credit posted in connection with any collateral accounts with BP. IDT Energy’s ability to purchase electricity and natural gas under this agreement is subject to satisfaction of certain conditions including the maintenance of certain covenants. At September 30, 2013, the Company was in compliance with such covenants. As of September 30, 2013, restricted cash of $0.4 million and trade accounts receivable of $37.7 million were pledged to BP as collateral for the payment of IDT Energy’s trade accounts payable to BP of $13.8 million as of September 30, 2013.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	Note 11—Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
	The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income by component, including reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income, were as follows:
	(in thousands)	Unrealized Loss on Available-for-Sale Securities			Foreign Currency Translation		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Location of (Gain) Loss Recognized
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	(15	)	$	285	$	270
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(34	)		334		300
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income		49			—		49	Interest income
	Net other comprehensive income		15			334		349
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	—		$	619	$	619

Revolving_Line_of_Credit

Revolving Line of Credit	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Revolving Line of Credit [Abstract]	'
Revolving Line of Credit	'
	Note 12—Revolving Line of Credit
	As of April 23, 2012, the Company and IDT Energy entered into a Loan Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank for a revolving line of credit for up to a maximum principal amount of $25.0 million. On April 30, 2013, the Loan Agreement was modified to extend the maturity date from April 30, 2013 to April 30, 2014. The proceeds from the line of credit may be used to provide working capital and for the issuance of letters of credit. The Company agreed to deposit cash in a money market account at JPMorgan Chase Bank as collateral for the line of credit equal to the greater of (a) $10.0 million or (b) the sum of the amount of letters of credit outstanding plus the outstanding principal under the revolving note. The Company is not permitted to withdraw funds or exercise any authority over the required balance in the collateral account. The principal outstanding will bear interest at the lesser of (a) the LIBOR rate multiplied by the statutory reserve rate established by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System plus 1.0% per annum, or (b) the maximum rate per annum permitted by whichever of applicable federal or Texas laws permit the higher interest rate. Interest is payable at least every three months and all outstanding principal and any accrued and unpaid interest is due on the maturity date. The Company pays a quarterly unused commitment fee of 0.08% per annum on the difference between $25.0 million and the average daily outstanding principal balance of the note. In addition, as of April 23, 2012, GEIC issued a Corporate Guaranty to JPMorgan Chase Bank whereby GEIC unconditionally guarantees the full payment of all indebtedness of the Company and IDT Energy under the Loan Agreement. At September 30, 2013, there were no amounts borrowed under the line of credit, $2.0 million was utilized for letters of credit and cash collateral of $10.0 million was included in “Restricted cash” in the consolidated balance sheet.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Balance of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'
		Level 1 (1)		Level 2 (2)			Level 3 (3)		Total
		(in thousands)
	Assets:
	Corporate debt securities	$	401	$	—		$	—	$	401
	Derivative contracts		—		446			634		1,080
	Total	$	401	$	446		$	634	$	1,481
	Liabilities:
	Derivative contracts	$	—	$	183		$	575	$	758
	(1) – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
	(2) – observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities
	(3) – no observable pricing inputs in the market
Summary of the change in the balance of the Company's asset and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)	'
		Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
		30-Sep-13					30-Sep-13
		Assets		Liabilities			Assets		Liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of period	$	299	$	(20	)	$	—	$	—
	Total gains (losses) (realized or unrealized) included in earnings in “Direct cost of revenues”		335		(555	)		275		(575	)
	Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements:
	Purchases		—		—			359		—
	Transfers in (out) of Level 3		—		—			—		—
	Balance, end of period	$	634	$	(575	)	$	634	$	(575	)
	The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings in “Direct cost of revenues” attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities held at the end of the period	$	354	$	(575	)	$	325	$	(575	)

Marketable_Securities_Tables

Marketable Securities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Marketable Securities [Abstract]	'
Summary of marketable securities	'
		Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale securities:
	September 30, 2013:
	Corporate debt securities	$	401	$	—	$	—		$	401
	December 31, 2012:
	Corporate debt securities	$	10,500	$	35	$	(50	)	$	10,485
Schedule of available-for-sale corporate debt securities	'
		Fair Value
		(in thousands)
	Within one year	$	401
	After one year through five years		—
	After five years through ten years		—
	After ten years		—
	Total	$	401
Summary of Available-for-sale securities in unrealized loss position for other-than-temporary impairments	'
		Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
		(in thousands)
	December 31, 2012:
	Corporate debt securities	$	50	$	2,500

Derivative_Instruments_Tables

Derivative Instruments (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments [Abstract]

'

Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts

'

Commodity

Settlement Dates

Volume

Electricity

Dec-13

88,340 MWh

Electricity

Jan-14

44,000 MWh

Electricity

Feb-14

40,000 MWh

Electricity

Jul-14

52,800 MWh

Electricity

Aug-14

50,400 MWh

Electricity

Sep-14

16,800 MWh

Natural gas

Nov-13

150,000 Dth

Natural gas

Dec-13

775,000 Dth

Natural gas

Jan-14

375,000 Dth

Natural gas

Feb-14

1,425,000 Dth

Natural gas

Mar-14

225,000 Dth

Natural gas

Jul-14

77,500 Dth

Schedule of fair value of outstanding derivative instruments recorded as assets and liabilities

'

Asset Derivatives

Balance Sheet Location

30-Sep-13

31-Dec-12

(in thousands)

Derivatives not designated or not qualifying as hedging instruments:

Energy contracts and options

Other current assets

$

1,080

$

308

Liability Derivatives

Balance Sheet Location

30-Sep-13

31-Dec-12

(in thousands)

Derivatives not designated or not qualifying as hedging instruments:

Energy contracts and options

Other current liabilities

$

758

$

152

Effects of derivative instruments on the consolidated statements of operations

'

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on Derivatives

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

September 30,

Derivatives not designated

Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized on

2013

2012

2013

2012

or not qualifying as

Derivatives

hedging instruments

(in thousands)

Energy contracts and options

Direct cost of revenues

$

(426

)

$

(17

)

$

(394

)

$

(101

)

Investment_in_American_Shale_O1

Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Investment In American Shale Oil, Llc [Abstract]	'
Summary in the change in balance of the Company's investment in AMSO, LLC	'
		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of period	$	242		$	(685	)
	Capital contributions		2,345			2,925
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		(2,607	)		(2,252	)
	Balance, end of period	$	(20	)	$	(12	)
Maximum exposure to additional loss	'
		(in thousands)
	AMSO’s committed investment in AMSO, LLC based on the 2013 budget	$	4,249
	Less: cumulative capital contributions to AMSO, LLC		(2,345	)
	Less: liability for equity loss in AMSO, LLC at September 30, 2013		(20	)
	Maximum exposure to additional loss	$	1,884
Summarized unaudited statements of operations AMSO, LLC	'
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Operating expenses:
	General and administrative	$	162		$	132		$	435		$	389
	Research and development		1,758			1,320			7,055			6,046
	Loss from operations		1,920			1,452			7,490			6,435
	Other income		—			—			41			—
	Net loss	$	(1,920	)	$	(1,452	)	$	(7,449	)	$	(6,435	)

Equity_Tables

Equity (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'
Summary of changes in the components of equity	'
			Nine Months Ended
			30-Sep-13
			Attributable to Genie				Noncontrolling Interests				Total
			(in thousands)
	Balance, December 31, 2012		$	122,490			$	(4,393	)		$	118,097
	Accrued dividends on preferred stock			(615	)			—				(615	)
	Restricted Class B common stock purchased from employees for tax withholdings			(270	)			—				(270	)
	Exercise of stock options			53				—				53
	Issuance of Genie Class B common stock to holders of deferred stock units of subsidiary			1,837				(1,837	)			—
	Grants of equity of subsidiaries			357				(357	)			—
	Stock-based compensation			2,931				—				2,931
	Comprehensive (loss) income:
	Net (loss) income			(5,420	)			1,197				(4,223	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)			349				(13	)			336
	Comprehensive (loss) income			(5,071	)			1,184				(3,887	)
	Balance, September 30, 2013		$	121,712			$	(5,403	)		$	116,309
Summary of Net income (loss) and aggregate net funding repaid to (provided by) the Company to variable interest entity	'
		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		September 30,								September 30,
		2013				2012				2013				2012
		(in thousands)
	Net income (loss):
	CCE		$	697			$	1,895			$	2,360			$	2,828
	DAD		$	—			$	(124	)		$	(35	)		$	(313	)
	Tari		$	—			$	61			$	10			$	98
	Aggregate funding (provided by) repaid to the Company, net		$	(601	)		$	(1,069	)		$	3,802			$	553
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'
			September 30,				December 31,
			2013				2012
			(in thousands)
	Assets
	Cash and cash equivalents		$	1,180			$	1,047
	Restricted cash			56				39
	Trade accounts receivable			2,230				4,168
	Prepaid expenses			406				485
	Other current assets			310				519
	Property and equipment, net			—				38
	Other assets			489				493
	Total assets		$	4,671			$	6,789
	Liabilities and members’ interests
	Current liabilities		$	2,383			$	3,035
	Due to IDT Energy			1,280				5,082
	Noncontrolling interests			1,008				(1,328	)
	Total liabilities and noncontrolling interests		$	4,671			$	6,789

Earnings_Loss_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Genie Energy Ltd. common stockholders:	'
Weighted-average number of shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share	'
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Basic weighted-average number of shares		19,384		21,037		19,413		21,025
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options		40		—		—		—
	Non-vested restricted Class B common stock		1,665		—		—		—
	Diluted weighted-average number of shares		21,089		21,037		19,413		21,025
Schedule of antidilutive shares excluded from computation of earnings per share	'
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Stock options		—		457		449		457
	Non-vested restricted Class B common stock		—		1,988		1,785		1,988
	Shares excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share		—		2,445		2,234		2,445

Related_Party_Transaction_Tabl

Related Party Transaction (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Abstract]	'
Summary of related party transactions	'
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Amount IDT charged the Company	$	913	$	974	$	2,363	$	2,517
	Amount the Company charged IDT	$	82	$	20	$	189	$	66

Business_Segment_Information_T

Business Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Business Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Operating results for the business segments	'
	(in thousands)	IDT		Genie Oil and Gas			Corporate			Total
		Energy
	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Revenues	$	71,638	$	—		$	—		$	71,638
	Income (loss) from operations		9,596		(3,699	)		(1,949	)		3,948
	Research and development		—		2,653			—			2,653
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		672			—			672
	Three Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Revenues	$	63,725	$	—		$	—		$	63,725
	Income (loss) from operations		8,679		(3,171	)		(2,039	)		3,469
	Research and development		—		2,264			—			2,264
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		508			—			508
	(in thousands)	IDT		Genie Oil and Gas			Corporate			Total
		Energy
	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	Revenues	$	212,103	$	—		$	—		$	212,103
	Income (loss) from operations		18,972		(11,507	)		(6,454	)		1,011
	Research and development		—		7,734			—			7,734
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		2,607			—			2,607
	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Revenues	$	164,056	$	—		$	—		$	164,056
	Income (loss) from operations		17,108		(10,169	)		(5,784	)		1,155
	Research and development		—		7,141			—			7,141
	Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC		—		2,252			—			2,252
Summary of business segment aggregate assets	'
	(in thousands)	IDT		Genie Oil and Gas			Corporate			Total
		Energy
	Total assets:
	30-Sep-13	$	68,722	$	37,044		$	40,410		$	146,176
	31-Dec-12	$	65,377	$	36,561		$	48,368		$	150,306

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'
Summary of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income by component, including reclassifications	'
	(in thousands)	Unrealized Loss on Available-for-Sale Securities			Foreign Currency Translation		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Location of (Gain) Loss Recognized
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	(15	)	$	285	$	270
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(34	)		334		300
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income		49			—		49	Interest income
	Net other comprehensive income		15			334		349
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	—		$	619	$	619

Basis_of_Presentation_Details

Basis of Presentation (Details)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
					IDT Energy [Member]	Genie Oil and Gas [Member]	Genie Energy International Corporation [Member]	American Shale Oil L.L.C [Member]	Israel Energy Initiatives [Member]	Afek Oil and Gas Ltd. [Member]
Basis of Presentation (Textual)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Company's investment, ownership percentage in subsidiary	'	'	'	'	100.00%	92.00%	99.30%	'	88.60%	89.00%
Deferred stock units granted to directors and employees represent obligation percentage of equity	'	'	'	'	2.30%	'	'	'	'	'
Ownership interest hold by subsidiary	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	50.00%	'	'
Percentage of gas revenue generated in given period	'	47.00%	'	50.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage of electricity revenue generated in given period	34.00%	'	35.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (Recurring [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets:	'
Corporate debt securities	$401
Derivative contracts	1,080
Total	1,481
Liabilities:	'
Derivative contracts	758
Level 1 (1) [Member]	'
Assets:	'
Corporate debt securities	401
Derivative contracts	'
Total	401
Liabilities:	'
Derivative contracts	'
Level 2 (2) [Member]	'
Assets:	'
Corporate debt securities	'
Derivative contracts	446
Total	446
Liabilities:	'
Derivative contracts	183
Level 3 (3) [Member]	'
Assets:	'
Corporate debt securities	'
Derivative contracts	634
Total	634
Liabilities:	'
Derivative contracts	$575

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail1

Fair Value Measurements (Details 1) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Summary of the change in the balance of the Company's asset measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)	'	'
Balance, beginning of period, Assets	$299	'
Total gains (losses) (realized or unrealized) included in earnings in ''Direct cost of revenues'', Assets	335	275
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements: Assets	'	'
Purchases, Assets	'	359
Transfers in (out) of Level 3, Assets	'	'
Balance, end of period, Assets	634	634
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings in ''Direct cost of revenues'' attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to asset and liabilities held at the end of the period, Assets	354	325
Summary of the change in the balance of the Company's liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)	'	'
Balance, beginning of period, Liabilities	-20	'
Total gains (losses) (realized or unrealized) included in earnings in ''Direct cost of revenues'', Liabilities	-555	-575
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements: Liabilities	'	'
Purchases, Liabilities	'	'
Transfers in (out) of Level 3, Liabilities	'	'
Balance, end of period, Liabilities	-575	-575
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings in "Direct cost of revenues" attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets and liabilities held at the end of the period	($575)	($575)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail2

Fair Value Measurements (Details Textual) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified			GOGAS [Member]	GOGAS [Member]
Fair Value Measurements (Textual)	'	'	'	'
Stock option issued, exercise price	'	'	$5	'
Fair value of the GOGAS stock option	'	'	'	'
Investment options, expiration date	'	'	9-Apr-15	'
Financial instrument included in other assets	$0.90	$0.70	'	'

Marketable_Securities_Details

Marketable Securities (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Available-for-sale securities:	'	'
Corporate debt securities, Amortized Cost	$401	$10,500
Corporate debt securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	'	35
Corporate debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	'	-50
Corporate debt securities	$401	$10,485

Marketable_Securities_Details_

Marketable Securities (Details 1) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of available-for-sale corporate debt securities	'	'
Within one year	$401	'
After one year through five years	'	'
After five years through ten years	'	'
After ten years	'	'
Corporate debt securities	$401	$10,485

Marketable_Securities_Details_1

Marketable Securities (Details 2) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary of Available-for-sale securities in unrealized loss position for other-than-temporary impairments	'	'
Corporate debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	'	$50
Corporate debt securities, Fair Value	'	$2,500

Marketable_Securities_Details_2

Marketable Securities (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Marketable Securities (Textual)	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from sales and maturities of available-for-sale securities	$3.50	'	$10	'
Gross realized gains (losses) on available for sale securities	'	'	'	'

Derivative_Instruments_Details

Derivative Instruments (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Electricity [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Electricity
Settlement Dates	'December 2013
Volume	'88,340 MWh
Electricity one [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Electricity
Settlement Dates	'January 2014
Volume	'44,000 MWh
Electricity two [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Electricity
Settlement Dates	'February 2014
Volume	'40,000 MWh
Electricity three [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Electricity
Settlement Dates	'July 2014
Volume	'52,800 MWh
Electricity four [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Electricity
Settlement Dates	'August 2014
Volume	'50,400 MWh
Electricity five [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Electricity
Settlement Dates	'September 2014
Volume	'16,800 MWh
Natural Gas [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Natural gas
Settlement Dates	'November 2013
Volume	'150,000 Dth
Natural Gas one [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Natural gas
Settlement Dates	'December 2013
Volume	'775,000 Dth
Natural Gas Two [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Natural gas
Settlement Dates	'January 2014
Volume	'375,000 Dth
Natural Gas Three [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Natural gas
Settlement Dates	'February 2014
Volume	'1,425,000 Dth
Natural Gas Four [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Natural gas
Settlement Dates	'March 2014
Volume	'225,000 Dth
Natural Gas Five [Member]	'
Summarized volume of IDT Energy's outstanding future contracts	'
Commodity	'Natural gas
Settlement Dates	'July 2014
Volume	'77,500 Dth

Derivative_Instruments_Details1

Derivative Instruments (Details 1) (Energy contracts and options [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other current assets [Member]	'	'
Schedule of fair value of outstanding derivative instruments recorded as assets and liability	'	'
Asset Derivatives, not designated or not qualifying as hedging instruments	$1,080	$308
Other current liabilities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of fair value of outstanding derivative instruments recorded as assets and liability	'	'
Liability Derivatives, not designated or not qualifying as hedging instruments	$758	$152

Derivative_Instruments_Details2

Derivative Instruments (Details 2) (Energy contracts and options [Member], Direct cost of revenues [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Energy contracts and options [Member] | Direct cost of revenues [Member]	'	'	'	'
Effects of derivative instruments on the consolidated statements of operations	'	'	'	'
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on Derivatives	($426)	($17)	($394)	($101)

Investment_in_American_Shale_O2

Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Summary in the change in balance of the Company's investment in AMSO, LLC	'	'	'	'
Balance, beginning of period	'	'	$242	($685)
Capital contributions	'	'	2,345	2,925
Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC	-672	-508	-2,607	-2,252
Balance, end of period	($20)	($12)	($20)	($12)

Investment_in_American_Shale_O3

Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC (Details 1) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Maximum exposure to additional loss	'
AMSO's committed investment in AMSO, LLC based on the 2013 budget	$4,249
Less: cumulative capital contributions to AMSO, LLC	-2,345
Less: liability for equity loss in AMSO, LLC at September 30, 2013	-20
Maximum exposure to additional loss	$1,884

Investment_in_American_Shale_O4

Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC (Details 2) (AMSO, LLC [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
AMSO, LLC [Member]	'	'	'	'
Operating expenses:	'	'	'	'
General and administrative	$162	$132	$435	$389
Research and development	1,758	1,320	7,055	6,046
Loss from operations	1,920	1,452	7,490	6,435
Other income	'	'	41	'
Net loss	($1,920)	($1,452)	($7,449)	($6,435)

Investment_in_American_Shale_O5

Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC (Details Textual) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC (Textual)	'	'
Maximum exposure to additional loss	'	$1,884,000
AMSO, LLC [Member]	'	'
Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC (Textual)	'	'
Ownership interest of company in AMSO, LLC	'	50.00%
Percentage of initial expenditure funded by holding company	'	20.00%
Initial expenditures	'	50,000,000
Percentage of funding provided by holding company for next increased expenditures	'	35.00%
Amount of expenditures to be funded 35% by holding company	'	50,000,000
Percentage of funding for approved expenditures in excess of $100 million	'	50.00%
Expenditures in excess of this amount to be funded 50% by holding company	'	100,000,000
Percentage of funding to AMSO, LLC's for converting research, development and demonstration lease to a commercial lease	'	40.00%
Capital contributions to AMSO, LLC	'	68,000,000
Percentage of net loss allocated of AMSO, LLC	'	35.00%
Budget the year ending December 31, 2013	'	4,200,000
Amount of budget funded by holding company	400,000	2,300,000
Maximum amount of contribution to AMSO, LLC	'	2,700,000
Maximum exposure to additional loss	'	$1,900,000

Equity_Details

Equity (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Summary of changes in the components of equity	'	'	'	'
Balance, December 31, 2012	'	'	$118,097	'
Accrued dividends on preferred stock	'	'	-615	'
Repurchases of Class B common stock from employees	'	'	-270	-133
Exercise of stock options	'	'	53	5
Issuance of common stock to subsidiary deferred stock unit holders	'	'	'	'
Grants of equity of subsidiaries	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation	'	'	2,931	'
Comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Net (loss) income	2,042	-1,084	-4,223	-3,595
Other comprehensive income (loss)	235	112	336	45
Comprehensive (loss) income	2,277	-972	-3,887	-3,550
Balance, September 30, 2013	116,309	'	116,309	'
Attributable to Genie [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary of changes in the components of equity	'	'	'	'
Balance, December 31, 2012	'	'	122,490	'
Accrued dividends on preferred stock	'	'	-615	'
Repurchases of Class B common stock from employees	'	'	-270	'
Exercise of stock options	'	'	53	'
Issuance of common stock to subsidiary deferred stock unit holders	'	'	1,837	'
Grants of equity of subsidiaries	'	'	357	'
Stock-based compensation	'	'	2,931	'
Comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Net (loss) income	'	'	-5,420	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	349	'
Comprehensive (loss) income	'	'	-5,071	'
Balance, September 30, 2013	121,712	'	121,712	'
Noncontrolling Interests [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary of changes in the components of equity	'	'	'	'
Balance, December 31, 2012	'	'	-4,393	'
Accrued dividends on preferred stock	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of Class B common stock from employees	'	'	'	'
Exercise of stock options	'	'	'	'
Issuance of common stock to subsidiary deferred stock unit holders	'	'	-1,837	'
Grants of equity of subsidiaries	'	'	-357	'
Stock-based compensation	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive (loss) income:	'	'	'	'
Net (loss) income	'	'	1,197	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	-13	'
Comprehensive (loss) income	'	'	1,184	'
Balance, September 30, 2013	($5,403)	'	($5,403)	'

Equity_Details_1

Equity (Details 1) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Summary of Net income (loss) and aggregate net funding repaid to (provided by) the Company to variable interest entity	'	'	'	'
Aggregate funding (provided by) repaid to the Company, net	($601)	($1,069)	$3,802	$553
CCE [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary of Net income (loss) and aggregate net funding repaid to (provided by) the Company to variable interest entity	'	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	697	1,895	2,360	2,828
DAD [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary of Net income (loss) and aggregate net funding repaid to (provided by) the Company to variable interest entity	'	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	'	-124	-35	-313
Tari [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary of Net income (loss) and aggregate net funding repaid to (provided by) the Company to variable interest entity	'	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	'	$61	$10	$98

Equity_Details_2

Equity (Details 2) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	$4,671	$6,789
Total liabilities and noncontrolling interests	4,671	6,789
Cash and cash equivalents [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	1,180	1,047
Restricted cash [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	56	39
Trade accounts receivable [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	2,230	4,168
Prepaid expenses [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	406	485
Other current assets [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	310	519
Property and equipment, net [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	'	38
Other assets [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total assets	489	493
Current Liability [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total liabilities and noncontrolling interests	2,383	3,035
Due to IDT Energy [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total liabilities and noncontrolling interests	1,280	5,082
Noncontrolling Interests [Member]	'	'
Summarized combined balance sheets of CCE, DAD and Tari	'	'
Total liabilities and noncontrolling interests	$1,008	($1,328)

Equity_Details_Textual

Equity (Details Textual) (USD $)

0 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Aug. 15, 2013

15-May-13

Feb. 15, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Mar. 11, 2013

Oct. 17, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Aug. 31, 2013

31-May-13

Nov. 30, 2008

Dec. 31, 2011

Nov. 04, 2013

Nov. 26, 2012

Aug. 02, 2012

Sep. 30, 2013

Mar. 11, 2013

August 2, 2012 [Member]

November 26, 2012 [Member]

IDT Energy [Member]

IEI [Member]

IEI [Member]

DAD Sales LLC [Member]

Genie Mongolia [Member]

Common Stock Class B [Member]

Common Stock Class B [Member]

Common Stock Class B [Member]

Common Stock Class B [Member]

Michael Jonas [Member]

Stock Repurchase Program [Member]

Stock Repurchase Program [Member]

Equity (Textual)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of stock authorized to be repurchase

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,000,000

Remaining number of shares available for repurchase

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,000,000

'

Common stock exchange into of preferred stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,150,000

8,750,000

'

'

Issuance of series A preferred stock in exchange for class B common stock

'

'

'

'

'

313,376

1,604,591

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Ownership interest

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10.00%

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of equity in subsidiary, fully diluted, granted to other officers and employees

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of the grants of equity interests

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Company's Class B common stock issued in exchange for deferred stock units

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

133,758

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Vested deferred stock units exchanged with class B common stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

23.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Terms of offer to exchange class B common stock shares for preferred stock shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'The Company initiated an offer to exchange up to 8.75 million outstanding shares of its Class B common stock for the same number of shares of its Preferred Stock. The offer expired on October 10, 2012.

'The Company initiated an offer to exchange up to 7.15 million outstanding shares of its Class B common stock for the same number of shares of its Preferred Stock. The offer expired on March 5, 2013.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum Subsidiary Capitalization For Anti Dilution Protection

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of equity in subsidiary, granted to related party.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.00%

'

'

'

'

Company paid a pro-rated Base Dividend on Series 2012-A Preferred Stock

$0.16

$0.16

$0.13

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Company's Board of Directors declared a quarterly Base Dividend

'

'

'

$0.16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Dividends, Date to be Paid

'

'

'

'

15-Nov-13

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Dividends declared and paid on preferred stock

'

'

'

'

$0.80

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employment agreement description

'

'

'

'

'In October of 2013, the Company completed the sale to the employee of 9.5% of the equity in Afek per the terms of his employment agreement

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings_Loss_Per_Share_Detail

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Genie Energy Ltd. common stockholders:	'	'	'	'
Basic weighted-average number of shares	19,384	21,037	19,413	21,025
Effect of dilutive securities:	'	'	'	'
Stock options	40	'	'	'
Non-vested restricted Class B common stock	1,665	'	'	'
Diluted weighted-average number of shares	21,089	21,037	19,413	21,025

Earnings_Loss_Per_Share_Detail1

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details 1)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Schedule of antidilutive shares excluded from computation of earnings per share	'	'	'	'
Shares excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share	0	2,445	2,234	2,445
Stock options [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of antidilutive shares excluded from computation of earnings per share	'	'	'	'
Shares excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share	0	457	449	457
Non-vested restricted Class B common stock [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of antidilutive shares excluded from computation of earnings per share	'	'	'	'
Shares excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share	0	1,988	1,785	1,988

Earnings_Loss_Per_ShareDetails

Earnings (Loss) Per Share(Details Textual) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Loss Per Share (Textual)	'	'
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	1,917	1,605
Reduction in return to common shareholders (each year) due to dividends on preferred stock outstanding	$1.20	'

Related_Party_Transaction_Deta

Related Party Transaction (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Summary of related party transactions	'	'	'	'
Amount IDT charged the Company	$913	$974	$2,363	$2,517
Amount the Company charged IDT	$82	$20	$189	$66

Business_Segment_Information_D

Business Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating results for the business segments	'	'	'	'
Revenues	$71,638	$63,725	$212,103	$164,056
Income (loss) from operations	3,948	3,469	1,011	1,155
Research and development	2,653	2,264	7,734	7,141
Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC	672	508	2,607	2,252
IDT Energy [Member]	'	'	'	'
Operating results for the business segments	'	'	'	'
Revenues	71,638	63,725	212,103	164,056
Income (loss) from operations	9,596	8,679	18,972	17,108
Research and development	'	'	'	'
Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC	'	'	'	'
Genie Oil and Gas [Member]	'	'	'	'
Operating results for the business segments	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'
Income (loss) from operations	-3,699	-3,171	-11,507	-10,169
Research and development	2,653	2,264	7,734	7,141
Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC	672	-508	-2,607	-2,252
Corporate [Member]	'	'	'	'
Operating results for the business segments	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'
Income (loss) from operations	-1,949	-2,039	-6,454	-5,784
Research and development	'	'	'	'
Equity in the net loss of AMSO, LLC	'	'	'	'

Business_Segment_Information_D1

Business Segment Information (Details 1) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary total assets for the business segments	'	'
Total assets	$146,176	$150,306
IDT Energy [Member]	'	'
Summary total assets for the business segments	'	'
Total assets	68,722	65,377
Genie Oil and Gas [Member]	'	'
Summary total assets for the business segments	'	'
Total assets	37,044	36,561
Corporate [Member]	'	'
Summary total assets for the business segments	'	'
Total assets	$40,410	$48,368

Business_Segment_Information_D2

Business Segment Information (Details Textual)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
	Segment
Business Segment Information (Textual)	'
Number of Reportable Segments	2
GEIC [Member]	'
Business Segment Information (Textual)	'
Company's investment, ownership percentage in subsidiary	99.30%
IDT Energy [Member]	'
Business Segment Information (Textual)	'
Company's investment, ownership percentage in subsidiary	100.00%
Deferred stock units, stock obligation to related parties	2.30%
GOGAS [Member]	'
Business Segment Information (Textual)	'
Company's investment, ownership percentage in subsidiary	92.00%
AMSO, LLC [Member]	'
Business Segment Information (Textual)	'
Ownership interest hold by subsidiary	50.00%
IEI [Member]	'
Business Segment Information (Textual)	'
Company's investment, ownership percentage in subsidiary	88.60%
Afek [Member]	'
Business Segment Information (Textual)	'
Company's investment, ownership percentage in subsidiary	89.00%

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Oct. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual)	'	'	'
Trade accounts payable	$17,565,000	'	$20,641,000
Purchase and other commitments	1,300,000	800,000	'
Amount accrued for income tax audit	900,000	'	'
Description of termination date of agreement between BP Energy and IDT Energy	'The agreement's termination date is June 30, 2014, which automatically renews for an additional year unless either party provides written notice to the other party at least six months prior to June 30, 2014 that it will not renew the agreement.	'	'
Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual)	'	'	'
Tax liability by Company	0	'	'
Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual)	'	'	'
Tax liability by Company	300,000	'	'
JPMorgan [Member]	'	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual)	'	'	'
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	2,000,000	'	'
BP [Member]	'	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual)	'	'	'
Restricted cash pledged as collateral	400,000	'	'
Trade accounts receivable pledged as collateral	37,700,000	'	'
Trade accounts payable	13,800,000	'	'
IDT Energy [Member]	'	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual)	'	'	'
Aggregate performance bonds outstanding	$3,000,000	'	'

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Summary of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income by component, including reclassifications	'	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities, Beginning balance	'	'	($15)	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Foreign currency translation, Beginning balance	'	'	285	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Net, Beginning balance	'	'	270	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities	'	'	-34	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, Foreign currency translation	'	'	334	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, Accumulated other comprehensive income	'	'	300	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities	'	'	49	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, Foreign currency translation	'	'	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, Accumulated other comprehensive income	'	'	49	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, Location of (Gain) loss recognized	'	'	'Interest income	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Genie, unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities	59	-31	15	-25
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Genie, Foreign currency translation	'	'	334	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Genie, Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	349	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities, Ending balance	'	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Foreign currency translation, Ending balance	619	'	619	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Net, Ending balance	$619	'	$619	'

Revolving_Line_of_Credit_Detai

Revolving Line of Credit (Details) (JPMorgan [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Apr. 23, 2012
JPMorgan [Member]	'	'	'
Revolving Line of Credit (Textual)	'	'	'
Maximum principal amount on revolving line of credit	'	'	$25
Description of line of credit collateral	'	'Equal to the greater of (a) $10.0 million or (b) the sum of the amount of letters of credit outstanding plus the outstanding principal under the revolving note.	'
Extended Maturity Date	30-Apr-14	'	'
Maximum amount of collateral under condition one	'	10	'
Interest rate description on principal outstanding	'	'Lesser of (a) the LIBOR rate multiplied by the statutory reserve rate established by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System plus 1.0% per annum, or (b) the maximum rate per annum permitted by whichever of applicable federal or Texas laws permit the higher interest rate.	'
Quoted margin rate on LIBOR, per annum	'	1.00%	'
Quarterly unused commitment fee	'	0.08%	'
Line of credit facility, frequency of payment and payment terms	'	'Interest is payable at least every three months and all outstanding principal and any accrued and unpaid interest is due on the maturity date of April 30,2013	'
Cash collateral for line of credit	'	10	'
Line of credit facility, amount utilized	'	$2	'