Centerpoint Energy Houston Electric 10-K11 Mar 142013 FY Annual reportFinancial data

Company Profile

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013
Document Information [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'CENTERPOINT ENERGY HOUSTON ELECTRIC LLC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000048732	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Non-accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-K	'
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	1,000	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'
Entity Public Float	'	$0

STATEMENTS_OF_CONSOLIDATED_INC

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Revenues	$2,577	$2,540	$2,337
Expenses:	'	'	'
Operation and maintenance	1,053	958	917
Depreciation and amortization	685	729	587
Taxes other than income taxes	225	214	210
Total	1,963	1,901	1,714
Operating Income	614	639	623
Other Income (Expense):	'	'	'
Interest and other finance charges	-99	-141	-150
Interest on transition and system restoration bonds	-133	-147	-127
Return on true-up balance	0	0	352
Other, net	33	41	38
Total	-199	-247	113
Income Before Income Taxes and Extraordinary Item	415	392	736
Income tax expense	146	113	248
Income Before Extraordinary Item	269	279	488
Extraordinary Item, net of tax	0	0	598
Net Income	$269	$279	$1,086

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current Assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents ($207 and $266 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	$207	$646
Accounts and notes receivable, net ($60 and $68 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	261	222
Accounts and notes receivableâ€”affiliated companies	5	448
Accrued unbilled revenues	87	80
Inventory	105	94
Taxes receivable	0	7
Deferred tax asset	3	1
Other ($41 and $54 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	65	77
Total current assets	733	1,575
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, net	5,834	5,365
Other Assets:	'	'
Regulatory assets ($3,179 and $3,545 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	2,999	3,388
Notes receivableâ€”affiliated companies	0	750
Other	43	41
Total other assets	3,042	4,179
Total Assets	9,609	11,119
Current Liabilities:	'	'
Current portion of VIE transition and system restoration bonds long-term debt	354	447
Current portion of other long-term debt	0	450
Accounts payable	137	83
Accounts and notes payableâ€”affiliated companies	80	92
Taxes accrued	144	95
Interest accrued	75	87
Other	128	112
Total current liabilities	918	1,366
Other Liabilities:	'	'
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent	2,035	2,097
Benefit obligations	227	268
Regulatory liabilities	509	473
Notes payableâ€”affiliated companies	0	151
Other	46	40
Total other liabilities	2,817	3,029
Long-Term Debt:	'	'
VIE transition and system restoration bonds	3,046	3,400
Other	1,595	1,595
Total long-term debt	4,641	4,995
Commitments And Contingencies (Note 10)	'	'
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'	'
Memberâ€™s Equity	1,233	1,729
Total Liabilities and Memberâ€™s Equity	$9,609	$11,119

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_PA

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (PARENTHETICAL) Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash and cash equivalents ($207 and $266 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	$207	$646
Accounts and notes receivable, net ($60 and $68 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	261	222
Other ($41 and $54 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	65	77
Regulatory assets ($3,179 and $3,545 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	2,999	3,388
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents ($207 and $266 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	207	266
Accounts and notes receivable, net ($60 and $68 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	60	68
Other ($41 and $54 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	41	54
Regulatory assets ($3,179 and $3,545 related to VIEs at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	$3,179	$3,545

STATEMENTS_OF_CONSOLIDATED_CAS

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$269	$279	$1,086
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	685	729	587
Amortization of deferred financing costs	16	14	12
Deferred income taxes	-75	-69	149
Extraordinary item, net of tax	0	0	-598
Return on true-up balance	0	0	-352
Changes in other assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Accounts and notes receivable, net	-46	-24	-25
Accounts receivable/payable, affiliates	-5	62	-1
Inventory	-11	-14	-9
Accounts payable	48	-20	19
Taxes receivable	7	-5	61
Interest and taxes accrued	37	-15	4
Net regulatory assets and liabilities	-6	28	-28
Other current assets	-2	1	0
Other current liabilities	16	14	24
Other assets	-11	0	0
Other liabilities	6	3	-5
Other, net	0	-3	1
Net cash provided by operating activities	928	980	925
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'	'
Capital expenditures	-753	-609	-606
Decrease (increase) in notes receivable from affiliates, net	1,183	577	-111
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash of transition and system restoration bond companies	17	-13	-3
Cash received from U.S. Department of Energy grant	0	0	110
Other, net	-2	-20	-7
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	445	-65	-617
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from long-term debt	0	2,495	0
Payments of long-term debt	-897	-1,215	-283
Dividend to parent	-766	-1,685	0
Decrease in short-term notes payable with affiliates	-148	0	0
Cash paid for debt retirements	-2	-69	0
Debt issuance costs	0	-16	-3
Other, net	1	1	0
Net cash used in financing activities	-1,812	-489	-286
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	-439	426	22
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of the Year	646	220	198
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of the Year	207	646	220
Cash Payments:	'	'	'
Interest, net of capitalized interest	238	293	282
Income taxes	147	183	42
Non-cash transactions:	'	'	'
Accounts payable related to capital expenditures	$50	$44	$54

STATEMENTS_OF_CONSOLIDATED_MEM

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED MEMBER'S EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Preference Stock [Member]	Preferred Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]
In Millions, except Share data	Total	Preference Stock [Member]	Preferred Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]
Balance, beginning of year at Dec. 31, 2010	'	'	'	$0	$1,230	$818
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2010	'	'	'	1,000	'	'
Other	'	'	'	'	0	'
Net income	1,086	'	'	'	'	1,086
Dividend to parent	'	'	'	'	'	0
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2011	3,134	0	0	0	1,230	1,904
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	'	0	0	1,000	'	'
Other	'	'	'	'	1	'
Net income	279	'	'	'	'	279
Dividend to parent	'	'	'	'	'	-1,685
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2012	1,729	0	0	0	1,231	498
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	'	0	0	1,000	'	'
Other	'	'	'	'	1	'
Net income	269	'	'	'	'	269
Dividend to parent	'	'	'	'	'	-766
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2013	$1,233	$0	$0	$0	$1,232	$1
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	'	0	0	1,000	'	'

STATEMENTS_OF_CONSOLIDATED_MEM1

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED MEMBER'S EQUITY (PARENTHETICAL) (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0	0	0
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.01	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	20,000,000	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.01	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000

Background

Background	12 Months Ended
Background	Dec. 31, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Background

	CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC (CenterPoint Houston) engages in the electric transmission and distribution business in the Texas Gulf Coast area that includes the city of Houston. CenterPoint Houston is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (CenterPoint Energy), a public utility holding company. At December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston had the following subsidiaries: CenterPoint Energy Transition Bond Company, LLC, CenterPoint Energy Transition Bond Company II, LLC, CenterPoint Energy Transition Bond Company III, LLC, CenterPoint Energy Restoration Bond Company, LLC and CenterPoint Energy Transition Bond Company IV, LLC (Bond Company IV) (collectively, the transition and system restoration bond companies). Each is a special purpose Delaware limited liability company formed solely for the purpose of purchasing and owning transition or system restoration property through the issuance of transition bonds or system restoration bonds and activities incidental thereto.

	Because CenterPoint Houston is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of CenterPoint Energy, CenterPoint Houston’s determination of reportable business segments considers the strategic operating units under which CenterPoint Energy manages sales, allocates resources and assesses performance of various products and services to wholesale or retail customers in differing regulatory environments. The accounting policies of the business segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies except that some executive benefit costs have not been allocated to CenterPoint Houston. CenterPoint Houston uses operating income as the measure of profit or loss for its business segments. CenterPoint Houston consists of a single reportable segment: Electric Transmission & Distribution.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	'
	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

	(a) Use of Estimates

	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

	(b) Principles of Consolidation

	The accounts of CenterPoint Houston and its wholly owned subsidiaries are included in CenterPoint Houston’s consolidated financial statements. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston had four variable interest entities (VIEs) consisting of transition and system restoration bond companies, which it consolidates. The consolidated VIEs are wholly owned bankruptcy remote special purpose entities that were formed specifically for the purpose of securitizing transition and system restoration related property. Creditors of CenterPoint Houston have no recourse to any assets or revenues of the transition and system restoration bond companies. The bonds issued by these VIEs are payable only from and secured by transition and system restoration property and the bondholders have no recourse to the general credit of CenterPoint Houston.

	(c) Revenues

	CenterPoint Houston records revenue for electricity delivery under the accrual method and these revenues are recognized upon delivery to customers. Electricity deliveries not billed by month-end are accrued based on actual advanced metering system data, daily supply volumes and applicable rates.

	(d) Long-Lived Assets and Intangibles

	CenterPoint Houston records property, plant and equipment at historical cost. CenterPoint Houston expenses repair and maintenance costs as incurred.

	CenterPoint Houston periodically evaluates long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment, and specifically identifiable intangibles, when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. The determination of whether an impairment has occurred is based on an estimate of undiscounted cash flows attributable to the assets, as compared to the carrying value of the assets.

	(e) Regulatory Assets and Liabilities

	CenterPoint Houston applies the guidance for accounting for regulated operations. CenterPoint Houston’s rate-regulated subsidiaries may collect revenues subject to refund pending final determination in rate proceedings. In connection with such revenues, estimated rate refund liabilities are recorded which reflect management’s current judgment of the ultimate outcomes of the proceedings.

	CenterPoint Houston recognizes removal costs as a component of depreciation expense in accordance with regulatory treatment. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, these removal costs of $349 million and $346 million, respectively, are classified as regulatory liabilities in CenterPoint Houston’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. A portion of the amount of removal costs that related to asset retirement obligations has been reclassified from a regulatory liability to an asset retirement liability in accordance with accounting guidance for asset retirement obligations.

	(f) Depreciation and Amortization Expense

	Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on economic lives or a regulatory-mandated recovery period. Transition and system restoration property is being amortized over the expected life of the transition and system restoration bonds (12 to 14 years), based on estimated revenue from transition or system restoration charges, interest accruals and other expenses. Other amortization expense includes amortization of regulatory assets and other intangibles.

	(g) Allowance for Funds Used During Construction

	Allowance for funds used during construction (AFUDC) is capitalized as a component of projects under construction and is amortized over the assets’ estimated useful lives once the assets are placed in service. AFUDC represents the composite interest cost of borrowed funds and a reasonable return on the equity funds used for construction. Although AFUDC increases both utility plant and earnings, it is realized in cash when the assets are included in rates. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Houston capitalized AFUDC interest of $10 million, $6 million and $4 million, respectively. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Energy recorded AFUDC equity of $8 million, $6 million and $5 million, respectively, which is included in Other Income in its Statements of Consolidated Income.

	(h) Income Taxes

	CenterPoint Houston is included in the consolidated income tax returns of CenterPoint Energy. CenterPoint Houston calculates its income tax provision on a separate return basis under a tax sharing agreement with CenterPoint Energy. CenterPoint Houston uses the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. A valuation allowance is established against deferred tax assets for which management believes realization is not considered more likely than not. CenterPoint Houston recognizes interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense. Current federal and certain state income taxes are payable to or receivable from CenterPoint Energy.

	(i) Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

	Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. It is the policy of management to review the outstanding accounts receivable monthly, as well as the bad debt write-offs experienced in the past, and establish an allowance for doubtful accounts. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when management determines it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. Accounts and notes receivable are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $3 million and $2 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The provision for doubtful accounts in CenterPoint Houston’s Statements of Consolidated Income for each of the years ended 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $2 million.

	(j) Inventory

	Inventory consists principally of materials and supplies and is valued at the lower of average cost or market. Materials and supplies are recorded to inventory when purchased and subsequently charged to expense or capitalized to plant when installed.

	(k) Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows

	For purposes of reporting cash flows, CenterPoint Houston considers cash equivalents to be short-term, highly-liquid investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase. In connection with the issuance of transition bonds and system restoration bonds, CenterPoint Houston was required to establish restricted cash accounts to collateralize the bonds that were issued in these financing transactions. These restricted cash accounts are not available for withdrawal until the maturity of the bonds and are not included in cash and cash equivalents. These restricted cash accounts of $41 million and $54 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, are included in other current assets in CenterPoint Houston's Consolidated Balance Sheets. For additional information regarding transition and system restoration bonds, see Notes 4(b) and 8. Cash and cash equivalents includes $207 million and $266 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, that is held by CenterPoint Houston’s transition and system restoration bond subsidiaries solely to support servicing the transition and system restoration bonds.

	(l) New Accounting Pronouncements

	In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2013-02, “Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income” (ASU 2013-02). The objective of ASU 2013-02 is to improve the transparency of changes in other comprehensive income and items reclassified out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in financial statements. This new guidance is effective for a reporting entity's first reporting period beginning after December 15, 2012 and should be applied prospectively. CenterPoint Houston's adoption of this new guidance on January 1, 2013 did not have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

	In December 2011 and January 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-11, “Disclosures About Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” (ASU 2011-11) and No. 2013-01, “Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures About Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” (ASU 2013-01), respectively. The objective of ASU 2011-11 is to enhance disclosures about the nature of an entity's rights of setoff and related arrangements associated with its financial instruments and derivative instruments. The objective of ASU 2013-01 is to clarify which instruments and transactions are subject to ASU 2011-11. Both ASU 2011-11 and ASU 2013-01 are effective for a reporting entity's first reporting period beginning on or after January 1, 2013 and should be applied retrospectively. CenterPoint Houston's adoption of this new guidance on January 1, 2013 did not have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

	Management believes that other recently issued standards, which are not yet effective, will not have a material impact on CenterPoint Houston’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.

	(m) Other Current Liabilities

	Included in other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012 was $21 million and $27 million, respectively, of customer deposits.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, Plant and Equipment

	(a) Property, Plant and Equipment

	Property, plant and equipment includes the following:


		Weighted Average Useful		December 31,
		Lives (Years)		2013				2012
				(in millions)
	Transmission	41		$	1,926			$	1,851

	Distribution	29		5,848				5,548

	Other	14		967				805

	Total			8,741				8,204

	Accumulated depreciation			2,907				2,839

	Property, plant and equipment, net			$	5,834			$	5,365


	(b) Depreciation and Amortization

	The following table presents depreciation and amortization expense for 2013, 2012 and 2011:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		(in millions)
	Depreciation expense	$	280			$	265			$	257

	Amortization of securitized regulatory assets	383				442				308

	Other amortization	22				22				22

	Total depreciation and amortization	$	685			$	729			$	587


	(c) Asset Retirement Obligations

	A reconciliation of the changes in the asset retirement obligation (ARO) liability is as follows (in millions):


		December 31,
		2013				2012
	Beginning balance	$	29			$	23

	Accretion expense	1				1

	Revisions in estimates of cash flows	3				5

	Ending balance	$	33			$	29


	The increase of $3 million in the ARO from the revision of estimate in 2013 is primarily attributable to an increase in disposal costs. The increase of $5 million in the ARO from the revision of estimate in 2012 is primarily attributable to a decrease in the estimated useful lives of certain assets. There were no material additions or settlements during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

Regulatory_Matters

Regulatory Matters	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Other Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Regulatory Matters [Text Block]	'
	Regulatory Matters

	(a) Regulatory Assets and Liabilities

	The following is a list of regulatory assets/liabilities reflected on CenterPoint Houston’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012:


		December 31,
		2013			2012
		(in millions)
	Securitized regulatory asset	$	3,179		$	3,545

	Unrecognized equity return (1)	(508		)	(553		)
	Unamortized loss on reacquired debt	111			119

	Pension and postretirement-related regulatory asset (2)	90			165

	Other long-term regulatory assets (3)	127			112

	Total regulatory assets	2,999			3,388


	Estimated removal costs	349			346

	Other long-term regulatory liabilities	160			127

	Total regulatory liabilities	509			473


	Total regulatory assets and liabilities, net	$	2,490		$	2,915



	-1	As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston has not recognized an allowed equity return of $508 million because such return will be recognized as it is recovered in rates. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Houston recognized approximately $45 million, $47 million and $21 million, respectively, of the allowed equity return.


	-2	CenterPoint Houston’s actuarially determined pension and other postemployment expense in excess of the amount being recovered through rates is being deferred for rate making purposes. Deferred pension and other postemployment expenses of $5 million and $14 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were not earning a return.


	-3	Other regulatory assets that are not earning a return were not material as of December 31, 2013 and 2012.

	(b) Resolution of True-Up Appeal

	In March 2004, CenterPoint Houston filed a true-up application with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (Texas Utility Commission) requesting recovery of $3.7 billion, excluding interest, as allowed under the Texas Electric Choice Plan. The legislation provided for a transition period to move to a new market structure and provided a mechanism for the formerly integrated electric utilities to recover stranded and certain other costs resulting from the transition to competition. In December 2004, the Texas Utility Commission issued a final order (True-Up Order) allowing CenterPoint Houston to recover a true-up balance of approximately $2.3 billion. To reflect the impact of the True-Up Order, in 2004 and 2005, CenterPoint Energy recorded a net after-tax extraordinary loss of $947 million.

	Various parties, including CenterPoint Houston, appealed the True-Up Order. In March 2011, the Texas Supreme Court issued a unanimous ruling on such appeals in which it affirmed in part and reversed in part the decision of the Texas Utility Commission. The case was remanded to the Texas Utility Commission, and in October 2011, the Texas Utility Commission approved a final order (the Remand Order) which provided that (i) CenterPoint Houston was entitled to recover an additional true-up balance of $1.695 billion (the Recoverable True-Up Balance), (ii) no further interest would accrue on the Recoverable True-Up Balance, and (iii) CenterPoint Houston would reimburse certain parties for their reasonable rate case expenses.

	In January 2012, CenterPoint Energy Transition Bond Company IV, LLC (Bond Company IV), a new special purpose subsidiary of CenterPoint Houston, issued $1.695 billion of transition bonds to securitize the Recoverable True-Up Balance.

	As a result of the Remand Order, in 2011 CenterPoint Houston recorded a pre-tax extraordinary gain of $921 million ($598 million after taxes of $232 million) and $352 million ($229 million after-tax) of Other Income related to a portion of interest on the appealed amount. An additional $405 million ($263 million after-tax) will be recorded as an equity return over the life of the transition bonds.

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Employee Benefit Plans

	(a) Pension Plans

	Substantially all of CenterPoint Houston’s employees participate in CenterPoint Energy’s non-contributory qualified defined benefit plan. Under the cash balance formula, participants accumulate a retirement benefit based upon 5% of eligible earnings and accrued interest.

	CenterPoint Energy’s funding policy is to review amounts annually in accordance with applicable regulations in order to achieve adequate funding of projected benefit obligations. Pension expense is allocated to CenterPoint Houston based on covered employees. This calculation is intended to allocate pension costs in the same manner as a separate employer plan. Assets of the plan are not segregated or restricted by CenterPoint Energy’s participating subsidiaries. CenterPoint Houston recognized pension expense of $25 million, $30 million and $27 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

	In addition to the pension plan, CenterPoint Houston participates in CenterPoint Energy’s non-qualified benefit restoration plans, which allow participants to receive the benefits to which they would have been entitled under the non-contributory pension plan except for federally mandated limits on qualified plan benefits or on the level of compensation on which qualified plan benefits may be calculated. The expense associated with the non-qualified pension plan was $1 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

	(b) Savings Plan

	CenterPoint Houston participates in CenterPoint Energy’s qualified savings plan, which includes a cash or deferred arrangement under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) under Section 4975(e)(7) of the Code. Under the plan, participating employees may contribute a portion of their compensation, on a pre-tax or after-tax basis, generally up to a maximum of 50% of eligible compensation. CenterPoint Houston matches 100% of the first 6% of each employee’s compensation contributed. The matching contributions are fully vested at all times. CenterPoint Energy allocates to CenterPoint Houston the savings plan benefit expense related to CenterPoint Houston’s employees. Savings plan benefit expense was $13 million, $12 million and $12 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

	(c) Postretirement Benefits

	CenterPoint Houston’s employees participate in CenterPoint Energy’s benefit plans which provide certain healthcare and life insurance benefits for retired employees on a contributory and non-contributory basis. Employees become eligible for these benefits if they have met certain age and service requirements at retirement, as defined in the plans. Under plan amendments effective in early 1999, healthcare benefits for future retirees were changed to limit employer contributions for medical coverage. Such benefit costs are accrued over the active service period of employees.

	CenterPoint Houston is required to fund a portion of its obligations in accordance with rate orders. The net postretirement benefit cost includes the following components:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		(in millions)
	Service cost - benefits earned during the period	$	1			$	—			$	—

	Interest cost on accumulated benefit obligation	13				16				16

	Expected return on plan assets	(7		)		(7		)		(9		)
	Amortization of transition obligation	6				6				6

	Amortization of prior service cost	(1		)		—				—

	Amortization of loss	4				3				1

	Benefit enhancement	—				1				1

	Net postretirement benefit cost	$	16			$	19			$	15


	CenterPoint Houston used the following assumptions to determine net postretirement benefit costs:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Discount rate	3.9	%		4.8	%		5.2	%
	Expected return on plan assets	6	%		6	%		7.5	%

	In determining net periodic benefits cost, CenterPoint Houston uses fair value, as of the beginning of the year, as its basis for determining expected return on plan assets.

	Following are reconciliations of CenterPoint Houston’s beginning and ending balances of its postretirement benefit plan’s benefit obligation, plan assets and funded status for 2013 and 2012. The measurement dates for plan assets and obligations were December 31, 2013 and 2012.


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012
		(in millions)
	Change in Benefit Obligation
	Accumulated benefit obligation, beginning of year	$	351			$	335

	Service cost	1				—

	Interest cost	13				16

Benefits paid	(19		)		(21		)
Participant contributions	3				2

Medicare drug reimbursement	1				2

Actuarial (gain) loss	(39		)		17

Accumulated benefit obligation, end of year	$	311			$	351

Change in Plan Assets

Plan assets, beginning of year	$	115			$	116

Benefits paid	(19		)		(21		)
Employer contributions	9				9

Participant contributions	3				2

Actual investment return	6				9

Plan assets, end of year	$	114			$	115

Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheets

Other liabilities-benefit obligations	$	(197	)		$	(236	)
Net liability, end of year	$	(197	)		$	(236	)
Actuarial Assumptions

Discount rate	4.75		%		3.9		%
Expected long-term return on assets	6		%		6		%
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for the next year - Pre 65	7		%		9		%
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for the next year - Post 65	7.5		%		9		%
Prescription drug cost trend rate assumed for the next year	7		%		9		%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)	5.5		%		5.5		%
Year that the healthcare rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2018				2017

Year that the prescription drug rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2018				2017


The discount rate assumption was determined by matching the accrued cash flows of CenterPoint Energy’s plans against a hypothetical yield curve of high-quality corporate bonds represented by a series of annualized individual discount rates from one-half to ninety-nine years.

The expected rate of return assumption was developed by a weighted-average return analysis of the targeted asset allocation of CenterPoint Energy’s plans and the expected real return for each asset class, based on the long-term capital market assumptions, adjusted for investment fees and diversification effects, in addition to expected inflation.

For measurement purposes, medical drug costs are assumed to increase 7.00% and 7.50% for the pre-65 and post-65 retirees, respectively, and the prescription cost is assumed to increase 7.00% during 2014, after which this rate decreases until reaching the ultimate trend rate of 5.50% in 2018.

CenterPoint Houston does not have amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income related to its postretirement benefit plans as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. Unrecognized costs were recorded as a regulatory asset because CenterPoint Houston historically and currently recovers postretirement expenses in rates.

Assumed healthcare cost trend rates have a significant effect on the reported amounts for CenterPoint Houston’s postretirement benefit plans. A 1% change in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate would have the following effects:


	1%				1%
	Increase				Decrease
	(in millions)
Effect on the postretirement benefit obligation	$	9			$	8

Effect on total of service and interest cost	—				—


In managing the investments associated with the postretirement benefit plans, CenterPoint Houston’s objective is to preserve and enhance the value of plan assets while maintaining an acceptable level of volatility. These objectives are expected to be achieved through an investment strategy that manages liquidity requirements while maintaining a long-term horizon in making investment decisions and efficient and effective management of plan assets.

As part of the investment strategy discussed above, CenterPoint Houston has adopted and maintained the following asset allocation ranges for its postretirement benefit plans:


U.S. equity	13-23%
International equity	3-13%
Fixed income	68-78%
Cash	0-2%

The following tables present by level, within the fair value hierarchy, CenterPoint Houston’s postretirement plan assets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, by asset category as follows:


	Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2013
	(in millions)
	Total				Quoted Prices in				Significant				Significant
					Active Markets				Observable				Unobservable
					for Identical				Inputs				Inputs
					Assets				(Level 2)				(Level 3)
					(Level 1)
Mutual funds (1)	$	114			$	114			$	—			$	—

Total	$	114			$	114			$	—			$	—



-1	73% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 9% is in international equities.


	Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2012
	(in millions)
	Total				Quoted Prices in				Significant				Significant
					Active Markets				Observable				Unobservable
					for Identical				Inputs				Inputs
					Assets				(Level 2)				(Level 3)
					(Level 1)
Mutual funds (1)	$	115			$	115			$	—			$	—

Total	$	115			$	115			$	—			$	—



-1	74% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 8% is in international equities.


CenterPoint Houston expects to contribute $7 million to its postretirement benefits plan in 2014. The following benefit payments are expected to be paid by the postretirement benefit plan (in millions):


	Postretirement Benefit Plan
	Benefit				Medicare
	Payments				Subsidy Receipts
2014	$	21			$	(2	)

2015	22				(2		)

2016	23				(2		)

2017	24				(3		)

2018	25				(3		)

2019-2023	135				(18		)


(d) Postemployment Benefits

CenterPoint Houston participates in CenterPoint Energy’s plan which provides postemployment benefits for former or inactive employees, their beneficiaries and covered dependents, after employment but before retirement (primarily health care and life insurance benefits for participants in the long-term disability plan). CenterPoint Houston recorded postemployment expense of $4 million, $3 million and $3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Amounts relating to postemployment obligations included in “Benefit Obligations” in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets at both December 31, 2013 and 2012 were $16 million.

(e) Other Non-Qualified Plans

CenterPoint Houston participates in CenterPoint Energy’s deferred compensation plans that provide benefits payable to directors, officers and certain key employees or their designated beneficiaries at specified future dates, upon termination, retirement or death. Benefit payments are made from the general assets of CenterPoint Houston. CenterPoint Houston recorded benefit expense relating to these plans of $1 million in each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. Amounts relating to deferred compensation plans included in “Benefit Obligations” in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were $13 million and $15 million, respectively.

(f) Other Employee Matters

As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston had 2,629 full-time employees, of which approximately 49% were covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]

Fair Value Measurements

Assets and liabilities are recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are categorized based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their value. Hierarchical levels, as defined below and directly related to the amount of subjectivity associated with the inputs to fair valuations of these assets and liabilities, are as follows:

Level 1: Inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. The types of assets carried at Level 1 fair value are investments listed in active markets. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, CenterPoint Houston held Level 1 investments of $38 million and $51 million, respectively, which were primarily money market funds, included in other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Level 2: Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability. CenterPoint Houston had no Level 2 assets or liabilities at either December 31, 2013 and 2012.

Level 3: Inputs are unobservable for the asset or liability, and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. These inputs reflect management’s best estimate of the assumptions market participants would use in determining fair value. CenterPoint Houston had no Level 3 assets or liabilities at either December 31, 2013 and 2012.

CenterPoint Houston determines the appropriate level for each financial asset and liability on a quarterly basis and recognizes any transfers at the end of the reporting period. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were no transfers between levels.

Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The fair values of cash and cash equivalents and short-term borrowings are estimated to be equivalent to carrying amounts and have been excluded from the table below. The fair value of each debt instrument is determined by using market interest rates at the applicable dates. These liabilities, which are not measured at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets but for which the fair value is disclosed, would be classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

December 31, 2013

December 31, 2012

Carrying

Fair

Carrying

Fair

Amount

Value

Amount

Value

(in millions)

Financial liabilities:

Long-term debt, including current portion

4,995

5,165

6,043

6,636

Related_Party_Transactions_and

Related Party Transactions and Major Customers	12 Months Ended
Related Party Transactions and Major Customers	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Related Party Transactions and Major Customers

	(a) Related Party Transactions

	CenterPoint Houston participates in a money pool through which it can borrow or invest on a short-term basis. Funding needs are aggregated and external borrowing or investing is based on the net cash position. The net funding requirements of the money pool are expected to be met with borrowings under CenterPoint Energy’s revolving credit facility or the sale of CenterPoint Energy’s commercial paper. CenterPoint Houston had borrowings from the money pool of $3 million and investments in the money pool of $433 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which are included in accounts and notes payable-affiliated companies and accounts and notes receivable-affiliated companies, respectively, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

	At December 31, 2012, CenterPoint Houston had a $750 million note receivable from its parent, which bore interest at the prime rate of 3.25%. The note receivable was repaid by CenterPoint Houston's parent during 2013.

	For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Houston had net interest income related to affiliate borrowings of $20 million, $19 million and $19 million, respectively.

	CenterPoint Energy provides some corporate services to CenterPoint Houston. The costs of services have been charged directly to CenterPoint Houston using methods that management believes are reasonable. These methods include negotiated usage rates, dedicated asset assignment and proportionate corporate formulas based on operating expenses, assets, gross margin, employees and a composite of assets, gross margin and employees. These charges are not necessarily indicative of what would have been incurred had CenterPoint Houston not been an affiliate. Amounts charged to CenterPoint Houston for these services were $147 million, $143 million and $142 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and are included primarily in operation and maintenance expenses.

	(b) Major Customers

	During 2013, 2012 and 2011, revenues derived from energy delivery charges provided by CenterPoint Houston to REPs that are affiliates of NRG Energy, Inc. (NRG) totaled $658 million, $648 million and $594 million, respectively. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, revenues derived from energy delivery charges provided by CenterPoint Houston to REPs that are affiliates of Energy Future Holdings Corp. totaled $167 million, $162 million and $182 million, respectively. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, revenues derived from energy delivery charges provided by CenterPoint Houston to REPs that are affiliates of Just Energy Group, Inc. totaled $126 million, $102 million and $81 million, respectively.

Longterm_Debt

Long-term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Long-term Debt


		December 31, 2013							December 31, 2012
		Long-Term				Current(1)			Long-Term				Current(1)
		(in millions)
	Long-term debt:
	First mortgage bonds 9.15% due 2021(2)	$	102			$	—		$	102			$	—

	General mortgage bonds 2.25% to 6.95% due 2022 to 2042	1,312				—			1,312				450

	Pollution control bonds 4.25% to 5.60% due 2017 to 2027(3)	183				—			183				—

	System restoration bonds 1.833% to 4.243% due 2014 to 2022	463				47			510				46

	Transition bonds 0.90% to 5.302% due 2014 to 2024	2,583				307			2,890				401

	Other	(2		)		—			(2		)		—

	Total long-term debt	$	4,641			$	354		$	4,995			$	897

	____________

	-1	Includes amounts due or scheduled to be paid within one year of the date noted.


	-2	Debt issued as collateral is excluded from the financial statements because of the contingent nature of the obligation.


	-3	These series of debt are collateralized by CenterPoint Houston’s general mortgage bonds.

	Debt Repayments. In March 2013, CenterPoint Houston retired $450 million aggregate principal amount of its 5.70% general mortgage bonds at their maturity.

	On August 1, 2013, in connection with the redemption of approximately $92 million aggregate principal amount of pollution control bonds issued on behalf of CenterPoint Energy, CenterPoint Houston prepaid a note payable to its sole member, having an aggregate principal amount of approximately $92 million and bearing interest at an annual rate of 4%, at 101% of the principal amount of the note. The redeemed pollution control bonds were collateralized by approximately $92 million aggregate principal amount of CenterPoint Houston's first mortgage bonds that were retired on August 1, 2013 in connection with the redemption.

	On October 15, 2013, in connection with the redemption of approximately $59 million aggregate principal amount of pollution control bonds issued on behalf of CenterPoint Energy, CenterPoint Houston prepaid a note payable to its sole member, having an aggregate principal amount of approximately $59 million and bearing interest at an annual rate of 4%, at 101% of the principal amount of the note. The redeemed pollution control bonds were collateralized by approximately $59 million aggregate principal amount of CenterPoint Houston's first mortgage bonds that were retired on October 15, 2013 in connection with the redemption.

	Approximately $44 million aggregate principal amount of pollution control bonds issued on behalf of CenterPoint Houston were redeemed on March 3, 2014 at 101% of their principal amount plus accrued interest. The bonds had an interest rate of 4.25%, were scheduled to mature in 2017 and were collateralized by general mortgage bonds of CenterPoint Houston.

	Approximately $56 million aggregate principal amount of pollution control bonds issued on behalf of CenterPoint Houston were purchased by CenterPoint Houston on March 3, 2014 at 101% of their principal amount plus accrued interest pursuant to the mandatory tender provisions of the bonds. The bonds initially had an interest rate of 5.60% prior to CenterPoint Houston's purchase but a variable rate thereafter. The bonds mature in 2027 and are collateralized by general mortgage bonds of CenterPoint Houston. The purchased pollution control bonds may be remarketed.

	Transition and System Restoration Bonds. As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston had four special purpose subsidiaries consisting of transition and system restoration bond companies, which it consolidates. The consolidated special purpose subsidiaries are wholly owned bankruptcy remote entities that were formed solely for the purpose of purchasing and owning transition or system restoration property through the issuance of transition bonds or system restoration bonds and activities incidental thereto. These transition bonds and system restoration bonds are payable only through the imposition and collection of “transition” or “system restoration” charges, as defined in the Texas Public Utility Regulatory Act, which are irrevocable, non-bypassable charges payable by most of CenterPoint Houston's retail electric customers in order to provide recovery of authorized qualified costs. CenterPoint Houston has no payment obligations in respect of the transition and system restoration bonds other than to remit the applicable transition or system restoration charges it collects. Each special purpose entity is the sole owner of the right to impose, collect and receive the applicable transition or system restoration charges securing the bonds issued by that entity. Creditors of CenterPoint Energy or CenterPoint Houston have no recourse to any assets or revenues of the transition and system restoration bond companies (including the transition and system restoration charges), and the holders of transition bonds or system restoration bonds have no recourse to the assets or revenues of CenterPoint Energy or CenterPoint Houston.

	Revolving Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, CenterPoint Houston had the following revolving credit facility and utilization of such facility (in millions):


	December 31, 2013											December 31, 2012
	Size of				Loans			Letters				Size of			Loans		Letters
	Facility							of Credit				Facility					of Credit
	$	300			$	—		$	4			$	300		$	—	$	4


	CenterPoint Houston’s $300 million credit facility, which is scheduled to terminate September 9, 2018, can be drawn at LIBOR plus 112.5 basis points based on CenterPoint Houston’s current credit ratings. The revolving credit facility contains a financial covenant which limits CenterPoint Houston's consolidated debt (excluding transition and system restoration bonds) to an amount not to exceed 65% of CenterPoint Houston's consolidated capitalization.

	Maturities. CenterPoint Houston’s maturities of long-term debt and scheduled payments on transition and system restoration bonds are $354 million in 2014, $372 million in 2015, $391 million in 2016, $539 million in 2017 and $434 million in 2018. These maturities include transition and system restoration bond principal repayments on scheduled payment dates aggregating $354 million in 2014, $372 million in 2015, $391 million in 2016, $411 million in 2017 and $434 million in 2018.

	Liens. As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston’s assets were subject to liens securing approximately $102 million of first mortgage bonds. Sinking or improvement fund and replacement fund requirements on the first mortgage bonds may be satisfied by certification of property additions. Sinking fund and replacement fund requirements for 2013, 2012 and 2011 have been satisfied by certification of property additions. The replacement fund requirement to be satisfied in 2014 is approximately $198 million, and the sinking fund requirement to be satisfied in 2014 is approximately $1.6 million. CenterPoint Houston expects to meet these 2014 obligations by certification of property additions. As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston’s assets were also subject to liens securing approximately $1.9 billion of general mortgage bonds which are junior to the liens of the first mortgage bonds.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Income Taxes

	The components of CenterPoint Houston’s income tax expense were as follows:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		(in millions)
	Current income tax expense:
	Federal	$	201			$	160			$	80

	State	20				22				19

	Total current expense	221				182				99

	Deferred income tax expense (benefit):

	Federal	(75		)		(69		)		146

	State	—				—				3

	Total deferred expense (benefit)	(75		)		(69		)		149

	Total income tax expense	$	146			$	113			$	248


	A reconciliation of the expected federal income tax expense using the federal statutory income tax rate to the actual income tax expense and resulting effective income tax rate is as follows:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		(in millions)
	Income before income taxes and extraordinary item	$	415			$	392			$	736

	Federal statutory income tax rate	35		%		35		%		35		%
	Expected federal income tax expense	145				137				258

	Increase (decrease) in tax expense resulting from:
	State income tax expense, net of federal income tax	13				14				15

	Amortization of investment tax credit	—				(1		)		(6		)

	Decrease in settled and uncertain tax positions	(5		)		(26		)		(4		)
	Other, net	(7		)		(11		)		(15		)
	Total	1				(24		)		(10		)

	Total income tax expense	$	146			$	113			$	248

	Effective tax rate	35.2		%		28.8		%		33.7		%

	CenterPoint Houston recognized a tax benefit of $5 million based on the settlement with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of outstanding tax claims for the 2002 and 2003 audit cycles in 2013.

	CenterPoint Houston recorded a net decrease in income tax expense of $26 million related to the release of certain income tax reserves due to its settlements with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in 2012. The remaining $1 million of investment tax credit was completely amortized in 2012.

	In September 2013, the U.S. Treasury issued final regulations addressing the tax consequences associated with the acquisition, production and improvement of tangible property. CenterPoint Houston does not expect the adoption of the regulations to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

	The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:


		December 31,
		2013				2012
		(in millions)
	Deferred tax assets:
Current:
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$	1			$	1

Other	2				—

Total current deferred tax assets	3				1

Non-current:

Employee benefits	80				95

Other	17				9

Total non-current deferred tax assets	97				104

Total deferred tax assets	100				105


Deferred tax liabilities:

Non-current:

Depreciation	1,166				1,103

Regulatory assets, net	966				1,098

Total deferred tax liabilities	2,132				2,201

Accumulated deferred income taxes, net	$	2,032			$	2,096


CenterPoint Houston is included in the consolidated income tax returns of CenterPoint Energy. CenterPoint Houston calculates its income tax provision on a separate return basis under a tax sharing agreement with CenterPoint Energy.

Uncertain Income Tax Positions. The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balance of CenterPoint Houston’s unrecognized tax benefits:


	December 31,
	2013				2012				2011
	(in millions)
Balance, beginning of year	$	—			$	44			$	232

Tax Positions related to prior years:

Additions	—				—				—

Reductions	—				(46		)		(192		)


Tax Positions related to current year:

Additions	—				—				4

Settlements	—				2				—

Balance, end of year	$	—			$	—			$	44


CenterPoint Houston has recognized the financial statement effects of all tax positions when it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the positions would be sustained upon examination. CenterPoint Houston did not have any uncertain tax positions as of December 31, 2013. CenterPoint Houston does not expect the change to the amount of unrecognized tax benefits over the twelve months ending December 31, 2014 to have a material impact on financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Unrecognized tax benefits were reduced to zero during 2012 primarily due to the re-measurement of certain unrecognized tax benefits related to an IRS issuance of new guidance with respect to repairs on tangible property and CenterPoint Energy's IRS settlements for tax years 2006 through 2009.

CenterPoint Houston had approximately $18 million of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would have reduced the effective income tax rate for 2011. CenterPoint Houston recognizes interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense. CenterPoint Houston recognized approximately $-0-, $5 million and $12 million of income tax benefit related to interest on uncertain income tax positions during 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. CenterPoint Houston had approximately $6 million of interest on settled income tax positions accrued at December 31, 2013.

Tax Audits and Settlements. CenterPoint Energy’s consolidated federal income tax returns have been audited by the IRS and settled through the 2011 tax year. CenterPoint Energy is currently in the early stages of examination by the IRS for tax year 2012. CenterPoint Energy has considered the effects of these examinations in its accrual for settled issues and liability for uncertain income tax positions as of December 31, 2013.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Commitments and Contingencies

	(a) Lease Commitments

	CenterPoint Houston currently has no obligations under non-cancelable long-term operating leases for the years 2014 to 2018. Total lease expense for all operating leases was less than $1 million in each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

	(b) Legal and Environmental Matters

	Legal Matters

	Gas Market Manipulation Cases. CenterPoint Energy, CenterPoint Houston or their predecessor, Reliant Energy, Incorporated (Reliant Energy), and certain of their former subsidiaries have been named as defendants in certain lawsuits described below. Under a master separation agreement between CenterPoint Energy and a former subsidiary, Reliant Resources, Inc. (RRI), CenterPoint Energy and its subsidiaries are entitled to be indemnified by RRI and its successors for any losses, including certain attorneys’ fees and other costs, arising out of these lawsuits. In May 2009, RRI sold its Texas retail business to a subsidiary of NRG Energy, Inc. (NRG) and RRI changed its name to RRI Energy, Inc. In December 2010, Mirant Corporation merged with and became a wholly owned subsidiary of RRI, and RRI changed its name to GenOn Energy, Inc. (GenOn). In December 2012, NRG acquired GenOn through a merger in which GenOn became a wholly owned subsidiary of NRG. None of the sale of the retail business, the merger with Mirant Corporation, or the acquisition of GenOn by NRG alters RRI’s (now GenOn’s) contractual obligations to indemnify CenterPoint Energy and its subsidiaries, including CenterPoint Houston, for certain liabilities, including their indemnification obligations regarding the gas market manipulation litigation.

	A large number of lawsuits were filed against numerous gas market participants in a number of federal and western state courts in connection with the operation of the natural gas markets in 2000-2002. CenterPoint Energy’s former affiliate, RRI, was a participant in gas trading in the California and Western markets. These lawsuits, many of which were filed as class actions, allege violations of state and federal antitrust laws. Plaintiffs in these lawsuits are seeking a variety of forms of relief, including, among others, recovery of compensatory damages (in some cases in excess of 1 billion), a trebling of compensatory damages, full consideration damages and attorneys’ fees. CenterPoint Energy and/or Reliant Energy were named in approximately 30 of these lawsuits, which were instituted between 2003 and 2009. CenterPoint Energy and its affiliates have since been released or dismissed from all but one case. CenterPoint Energy Services, Inc. (CES), a subsidiary of CERC Corp., is a defendant in a case now pending in federal court in Nevada alleging a conspiracy to inflate Wisconsin natural gas prices in 2000-2002. In July 2011, the court issued an order dismissing the plaintiffs’ claims against other defendants in the case, each of whom had demonstrated the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission jurisdictional sales for resale during the relevant period, based on federal preemption. The plaintiffs appealed this ruling to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, which reversed the trial court's dismissal of the plaintiffs' claims. In August 2013, the other defendants filed a petition for review with the U.S. Supreme Court. CenterPoint Energy believes that CES is not a proper defendant in this case and will continue to pursue a dismissal. CenterPoint Houston does not expect the ultimate outcome of this matter to have a material impact on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

	Environmental Matters

	Asbestos. Some facilities owned by CenterPoint Energy contain or have contained asbestos insulation and other asbestos-containing materials. CenterPoint Energy or its subsidiaries, including CenterPoint Houston, have been named, along with numerous others, as a defendant in lawsuits filed by a number of individuals who claim injury due to exposure to asbestos. Some of the claimants have worked at locations owned by CenterPoint Energy or CenterPoint Houston, but most existing claims relate to facilities previously owned by CenterPoint Energy’s other subsidiaries or CenterPoint Houston, but currently owned by NRG Texas LP. CenterPoint Energy anticipates that additional claims like those received may be asserted in the future. In 2004 and early 2005, CenterPoint Energy sold its generating business, to which most of these claims relate, to a company which is now an affiliate of NRG. Under the terms of the arrangements regarding separation of the generating business from CenterPoint Energy and its sale of that business, ultimate financial responsibility for uninsured losses from claims relating to the generating business has been assumed by the NRG affiliate, but CenterPoint Energy has agreed to continue to defend such claims to the extent they are covered by insurance maintained by CenterPoint Energy, subject to reimbursement of the costs of such defense by the NRG affiliate. Although their ultimate outcome cannot be predicted at this time, CenterPoint Houston or CenterPoint Energy, as appropriate, intends to continue vigorously contesting claims that are not considered to have merit and, based on its experience to date, CenterPoint Houston does not expect these matters, either individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

	Other Environmental. From time to time CenterPoint Houston identifies the presence of environmental contaminants on property where it conducts or has conducted operations. Other such sites involving contaminants may be identified in the future. CenterPoint Houston has and expects to continue to remediate identified sites consistent with its legal obligations. From time to time CenterPoint Houston has received notices from regulatory authorities or others regarding its status as a potentially responsible party in connection with sites found to require remediation due to the presence of environmental contaminants. In addition, CenterPoint Houston has been named from time to time as a defendant in litigation related to such sites. Although the ultimate outcome of such matters cannot be predicted at this time, CenterPoint Houston does not expect, based on its experience to date, these matters, either individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

	Other Proceedings

	CenterPoint Houston is involved in other legal, environmental, tax and regulatory proceedings before various courts, regulatory commissions and governmental agencies regarding matters arising in the ordinary course of business. Some of these proceedings involve substantial amounts. CenterPoint Houston regularly analyzes current information and, as necessary, provides accruals for probable liabilities on the eventual disposition of these matters. CenterPoint Houston does not expect the disposition of these matters to have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Unaudited_Quarterly_Informatio

Unaudited Quarterly Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Unaudited Quarterly Information [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	'
	Unaudited Quarterly Information

	Summarized quarterly financial data is as follows:


		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
		(in millions)
	Revenues	$	532	$	656	$	745	$	644

	Operating income	84		165		239		126

	Net income	19		73		126		51




		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
		(in millions)
	Revenues	$	531	$	676	$	748	$	585

	Operating income	107		191		242		99

	Net income	36		78		138		27

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates

	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Principles of Consolidation	'
	Principles of Consolidation

	The accounts of CenterPoint Houston and its wholly owned subsidiaries are included in CenterPoint Houston’s consolidated financial statements. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston had four variable interest entities (VIEs) consisting of transition and system restoration bond companies, which it consolidates. The consolidated VIEs are wholly owned bankruptcy remote special purpose entities that were formed specifically for the purpose of securitizing transition and system restoration related property. Creditors of CenterPoint Houston have no recourse to any assets or revenues of the transition and system restoration bond companies. The bonds issued by these VIEs are payable only from and secured by transition and system restoration property and the bondholders have no recourse to the general credit of CenterPoint Houston.
Revenues	'
	Revenues

	CenterPoint Houston records revenue for electricity delivery under the accrual method and these revenues are recognized upon delivery to customers. Electricity deliveries not billed by month-end are accrued based on actual advanced metering system data, daily supply volumes and applicable rates.
Long-Lived Assets and Intangibles	'
	Long-Lived Assets and Intangibles

	CenterPoint Houston records property, plant and equipment at historical cost. CenterPoint Houston expenses repair and maintenance costs as incurred.

	CenterPoint Houston periodically evaluates long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment, and specifically identifiable intangibles, when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. The determination of whether an impairment has occurred is based on an estimate of undiscounted cash flows attributable to the assets, as compared to the carrying value of the assets.
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities	'
	Regulatory Assets and Liabilities

	CenterPoint Houston applies the guidance for accounting for regulated operations. CenterPoint Houston’s rate-regulated subsidiaries may collect revenues subject to refund pending final determination in rate proceedings. In connection with such revenues, estimated rate refund liabilities are recorded which reflect management’s current judgment of the ultimate outcomes of the proceedings.

	CenterPoint Houston recognizes removal costs as a component of depreciation expense in accordance with regulatory treatment. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, these removal costs of $349 million and $346 million, respectively, are classified as regulatory liabilities in CenterPoint Houston’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. A portion of the amount of removal costs that related to asset retirement obligations has been reclassified from a regulatory liability to an asset retirement liability in accordance with accounting guidance for asset retirement obligations.
Depreciation and Amortization Expense	'
	Depreciation and Amortization Expense

	Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on economic lives or a regulatory-mandated recovery period. Transition and system restoration property is being amortized over the expected life of the transition and system restoration bonds (12 to 14 years), based on estimated revenue from transition or system restoration charges, interest accruals and other expenses. Other amortization expense includes amortization of regulatory assets and other intangibles.
Allowance for Funds Used During Construction	'
	Allowance for Funds Used During Construction

	Allowance for funds used during construction (AFUDC) is capitalized as a component of projects under construction and is amortized over the assets’ estimated useful lives once the assets are placed in service. AFUDC represents the composite interest cost of borrowed funds and a reasonable return on the equity funds used for construction. Although AFUDC increases both utility plant and earnings, it is realized in cash when the assets are included in rates. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Houston capitalized AFUDC interest of $10 million, $6 million and $4 million, respectively. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Energy recorded AFUDC equity of $8 million, $6 million and $5 million, respectively, which is included in Other Income in its Statements of Consolidated Income.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes

	CenterPoint Houston is included in the consolidated income tax returns of CenterPoint Energy. CenterPoint Houston calculates its income tax provision on a separate return basis under a tax sharing agreement with CenterPoint Energy. CenterPoint Houston uses the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. A valuation allowance is established against deferred tax assets for which management believes realization is not considered more likely than not. CenterPoint Houston recognizes interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense. Current federal and certain state income taxes are payable to or receivable from CenterPoint Energy.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	'
	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

	Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. It is the policy of management to review the outstanding accounts receivable monthly, as well as the bad debt write-offs experienced in the past, and establish an allowance for doubtful accounts. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when management determines it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. Accounts and notes receivable are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $3 million and $2 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The provision for doubtful accounts in CenterPoint Houston’s Statements of Consolidated Income for each of the years ended 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $2 million.
Inventory	'
	Inventory

	Inventory consists principally of materials and supplies and is valued at the lower of average cost or market. Materials and supplies are recorded to inventory when purchased and subsequently charged to expense or capitalized to plant when installed.
Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows	'
	Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows

	For purposes of reporting cash flows, CenterPoint Houston considers cash equivalents to be short-term, highly-liquid investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase. In connection with the issuance of transition bonds and system restoration bonds, CenterPoint Houston was required to establish restricted cash accounts to collateralize the bonds that were issued in these financing transactions. These restricted cash accounts are not available for withdrawal until the maturity of the bonds and are not included in cash and cash equivalents. These restricted cash accounts of $41 million and $54 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, are included in other current assets in CenterPoint Houston's Consolidated Balance Sheets. For additional information regarding transition and system restoration bonds, see Notes 4(b) and 8. Cash and cash equivalents includes $207 million and $266 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, that is held by CenterPoint Houston’s transition and system restoration bond subsidiaries solely to support servicing the transition and system restoration bonds.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	New Accounting Pronouncements

	In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2013-02, “Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income” (ASU 2013-02). The objective of ASU 2013-02 is to improve the transparency of changes in other comprehensive income and items reclassified out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in financial statements. This new guidance is effective for a reporting entity's first reporting period beginning after December 15, 2012 and should be applied prospectively. CenterPoint Houston's adoption of this new guidance on January 1, 2013 did not have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

	In December 2011 and January 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-11, “Disclosures About Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” (ASU 2011-11) and No. 2013-01, “Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures About Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” (ASU 2013-01), respectively. The objective of ASU 2011-11 is to enhance disclosures about the nature of an entity's rights of setoff and related arrangements associated with its financial instruments and derivative instruments. The objective of ASU 2013-01 is to clarify which instruments and transactions are subject to ASU 2011-11. Both ASU 2011-11 and ASU 2013-01 are effective for a reporting entity's first reporting period beginning on or after January 1, 2013 and should be applied retrospectively. CenterPoint Houston's adoption of this new guidance on January 1, 2013 did not have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

	Management believes that other recently issued standards, which are not yet effective, will not have a material impact on CenterPoint Houston’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.
Other Current Liabilities [Policy Text Block]	'
	Other Current Liabilities

	Included in other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012 was $21 million and $27 million, respectively, of customer deposits.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, plant and equipment includes the following:


		Weighted Average Useful		December 31,
		Lives (Years)		2013				2012
				(in millions)
	Transmission	41		$	1,926			$	1,851

	Distribution	29		5,848				5,548

	Other	14		967				805

	Total			8,741				8,204

	Accumulated depreciation			2,907				2,839

	Property, plant and equipment, net			$	5,834			$	5,365

Depreciation and Amortization	'
	The following table presents depreciation and amortization expense for 2013, 2012 and 2011:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		(in millions)
	Depreciation expense	$	280			$	265			$	257

	Amortization of securitized regulatory assets	383				442				308

	Other amortization	22				22				22

	Total depreciation and amortization	$	685			$	729			$	587

Asset Retirement Obligation	'
	A reconciliation of the changes in the asset retirement obligation (ARO) liability is as follows (in millions):


		December 31,
		2013				2012
	Beginning balance	$	29			$	23

	Accretion expense	1				1

	Revisions in estimates of cash flows	3				5

	Ending balance	$	33			$	29

Regulatory_Matters_Tables

Regulatory Matters (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, Other Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Text Block]	'
	The following is a list of regulatory assets/liabilities reflected on CenterPoint Houston’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012:


		December 31,
		2013			2012
		(in millions)
	Securitized regulatory asset	$	3,179		$	3,545

	Unrecognized equity return (1)	(508		)	(553		)
	Unamortized loss on reacquired debt	111			119

	Pension and postretirement-related regulatory asset (2)	90			165

	Other long-term regulatory assets (3)	127			112

	Total regulatory assets	2,999			3,388


	Estimated removal costs	349			346

	Other long-term regulatory liabilities	160			127

	Total regulatory liabilities	509			473


	Total regulatory assets and liabilities, net	$	2,490		$	2,915



	-1	As of December 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston has not recognized an allowed equity return of $508 million because such return will be recognized as it is recovered in rates. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Houston recognized approximately $45 million, $47 million and $21 million, respectively, of the allowed equity return.


	-2	CenterPoint Houston’s actuarially determined pension and other postemployment expense in excess of the amount being recovered through rates is being deferred for rate making purposes. Deferred pension and other postemployment expenses of $5 million and $14 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were not earning a return.


	-3	Other regulatory assets that are not earning a return were not material as of December 31, 2013 and 2012.

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]	'
	CenterPoint Houston is required to fund a portion of its obligations in accordance with rate orders. The net postretirement benefit cost includes the following components:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		(in millions)
	Service cost - benefits earned during the period	$	1			$	—			$	—
	Service cost - benefits earned during the period	$	1			$	—			$	—
	Interest cost on accumulated benefit obligation	13				16				16
	Interest cost on accumulated benefit obligation	13				16				16
	Expected return on plan assets	(7		)		(7		)		(9		)
	Amortization of transition obligation	6				6				6
	Amortization of transition obligation	6				6				6
	Amortization of prior service cost	(1		)		—				—
	Amortization of prior service cost	(1		)		—				—
	Amortization of loss	4				3				1
	Amortization of loss	4				3				1
	Benefit enhancement	—				1				1
	Benefit enhancement	—				1				1
	Net postretirement benefit cost	$	16			$	19			$	15
	Net postretirement benefit cost	$	16			$	19			$	15

	CenterPoint Houston used the following assumptions to determine net postretirement benefit costs:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Discount rate	3.9	%		4.8	%		5.2	%
	Expected return on plan assets	6	%		6	%		7.5	%
	CenterPoint Houston expects to contribute $7 million to its postretirement benefits plan in 2014. The following benefit payments are expected to be paid by the postretirement benefit plan (in millions):


		Postretirement Benefit Plan
		Benefit				Medicare
		Payments				Subsidy Receipts
	2014	$	21			$	(2	)
	2014	$	21			$	(2	)
	2015	22				(2		)
	2015	22				(2		)
	2016	23				(2		)
	2016	23				(2		)
	2017	24				(3		)
	2017	24				(3		)
	2018	25				(3		)
	2018	25				(3		)
	2019-2023	135				(18		)
	2019-2023	135				(18		)
	Following are reconciliations of CenterPoint Houston’s beginning and ending balances of its postretirement benefit plan’s benefit obligation, plan assets and funded status for 2013 and 2012. The measurement dates for plan assets and obligations were December 31, 2013 and 2012.


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012
		(in millions)
	Change in Benefit Obligation
	Accumulated benefit obligation, beginning of year	$	351			$	335
	Accumulated benefit obligation, beginning of year	$	351			$	335
	Service cost	1				—
	Service cost	1				—
	Interest cost	13				16
	Interest cost	13				16
	Benefits paid	(19		)		(21		)
	Participant contributions	3				2
	Participant contributions	3				2
Medicare drug reimbursement	1				2
Medicare drug reimbursement	1				2
Actuarial (gain) loss	(39		)		17
Actuarial (gain) loss	(39		)		17
Accumulated benefit obligation, end of year	$	311			$	351
Accumulated benefit obligation, end of year	$	311			$	351
Change in Plan Assets
Change in Plan Assets
Plan assets, beginning of year	$	115			$	116
Plan assets, beginning of year	$	115			$	116
Benefits paid	(19		)		(21		)
Employer contributions	9				9
Employer contributions	9				9
Participant contributions	3				2
Participant contributions	3				2
Actual investment return	6				9
Actual investment return	6				9
Plan assets, end of year	$	114			$	115
Plan assets, end of year	$	114			$	115
Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheets
Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheets
Other liabilities-benefit obligations	$	(197	)		$	(236	)
Net liability, end of year	$	(197	)		$	(236	)
Actuarial Assumptions
Actuarial Assumptions
Discount rate	4.75		%		3.9		%
Expected long-term return on assets	6		%		6		%
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for the next year - Pre 65	7		%		9		%
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for the next year - Post 65	7.5		%		9		%
Prescription drug cost trend rate assumed for the next year	7		%		9		%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)	5.5		%		5.5		%
Year that the healthcare rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2018				2017
	2018				2017
Year that the prescription drug rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2018				2017
	2018				2017
As part of the investment strategy discussed above, CenterPoint Houston has adopted and maintained the following asset allocation ranges for its postretirement benefit plans:


U.S. equity	13-23%
International equity	3-13%
Fixed income	68-78%
Cash	0-2%
Schedule of a one-percent point change In Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]	'
	Assumed healthcare cost trend rates have a significant effect on the reported amounts for CenterPoint Houston’s postretirement benefit plans. A 1% change in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate would have the following effects:


		1%				1%
		Increase				Decrease
		(in millions)
	Effect on the postretirement benefit obligation	$	9			$	8
	Effect on the postretirement benefit obligation	$	9			$	8
	Effect on total of service and interest cost	—				—
	Effect on total of service and interest cost	—				—
Schedule Of Fair Value Of Financial Assets For Pension And Postretirement Benefits [Text Block]	'
	The following tables present by level, within the fair value hierarchy, CenterPoint Houston’s postretirement plan assets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, by asset category as follows:


		Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2013
		(in millions)
		Total				Quoted Prices in				Significant			Significant
						Active Markets				Observable			Unobservable
						for Identical				Inputs			Inputs
						Assets				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
						(Level 1)
	Mutual funds (1)	$	114			$	114			$	—		$	—
	Mutual funds (1)	$	114			$	114			$	—		$	—
	Total	$	114			$	114			$	—		$	—
	Total	$	114			$	114			$	—		$	—


	-1	73% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 9% is in international equities.


		Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2012
		(in millions)
		Total				Quoted Prices in				Significant			Significant
						Active Markets				Observable			Unobservable
						for Identical				Inputs			Inputs
						Assets				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
						(Level 1)
	Mutual funds (1)	$	115			$	115			$	—		$	—
	Mutual funds (1)	$	115			$	115			$	—		$	—
	Total	$	115			$	115			$	—		$	—
	Total	$	115			$	115			$	—		$	—


	-1	74% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 8% is in international equities.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]

December 31, 2013

December 31, 2012

Carrying

Fair

Carrying

Fair

Amount

Value

Amount

Value

(in millions)

Financial liabilities:

Long-term debt, including current portion

4,995

5,165

6,043

6,636

Longterm_Debt_Tables

Long-term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	'


		December 31, 2013							December 31, 2012
		Long-Term				Current(1)			Long-Term				Current(1)
		(in millions)
	Long-term debt:
	First mortgage bonds 9.15% due 2021(2)	$	102			$	—		$	102			$	—

	General mortgage bonds 2.25% to 6.95% due 2022 to 2042	1,312				—			1,312				450

	Pollution control bonds 4.25% to 5.60% due 2017 to 2027(3)	183				—			183				—

	System restoration bonds 1.833% to 4.243% due 2014 to 2022	463				47			510				46

	Transition bonds 0.90% to 5.302% due 2014 to 2024	2,583				307			2,890				401

	Other	(2		)		—			(2		)		—

	Total long-term debt	$	4,641			$	354		$	4,995			$	897

	____________

	-1	Includes amounts due or scheduled to be paid within one year of the date noted.


	-2	Debt issued as collateral is excluded from the financial statements because of the contingent nature of the obligation.


	-3	These series of debt are collateralized by CenterPoint Houston’s general mortgage bonds.
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block]	'
	Revolving Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, CenterPoint Houston had the following revolving credit facility and utilization of such facility (in millions):


	December 31, 2013											December 31, 2012
	Size of				Loans			Letters				Size of			Loans		Letters
	Facility							of Credit				Facility					of Credit
	$	300			$	—		$	4			$	300		$	—	$	4

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Tax Expense	'
	The components of CenterPoint Houston’s income tax expense were as follows:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
		(in millions)
	Current income tax expense:
	Federal	$	201		$	160		$	80

	State	20			22			19

	Total current expense	221			182			99

	Deferred income tax expense (benefit):

	Federal	(75		)	(69		)	146

	State	—			—			3

	Total deferred expense (benefit)	(75		)	(69		)	149

	Total income tax expense	$	146		$	113		$	248

Reconciliation Of Expected Federal Income Tax Expense To Actual	'
	A reconciliation of the expected federal income tax expense using the federal statutory income tax rate to the actual income tax expense and resulting effective income tax rate is as follows:


		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
		(in millions)
	Income before income taxes and extraordinary item	$	415		$	392		$	736

	Federal statutory income tax rate	35		%	35		%	35		%
	Expected federal income tax expense	145			137			258

	Increase (decrease) in tax expense resulting from:
	State income tax expense, net of federal income tax	13			14			15

	Amortization of investment tax credit	—			(1		)	(6		)

	Decrease in settled and uncertain tax positions	(5		)	(26		)	(4		)
	Other, net	(7		)	(11		)	(15		)
	Total	1			(24		)	(10		)

	Total income tax expense	$	146		$	113		$	248

	Effective tax rate	35.2		%	28.8		%	33.7		%
Income Tax Asset Liability Disclosure	'
	The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:


		December 31,
		2013			2012
		(in millions)
	Deferred tax assets:
	Current:
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	$	1		$	1

	Other	2			—

	Total current deferred tax assets	3			1

	Non-current:

	Employee benefits	80			95

	Other	17			9

	Total non-current deferred tax assets	97			104

	Total deferred tax assets	100			105


	Deferred tax liabilities:

	Non-current:

	Depreciation	1,166			1,103

	Regulatory assets, net	966			1,098

	Total deferred tax liabilities	2,132			2,201

	Accumulated deferred income taxes, net	$	2,032		$	2,096

Rollforward Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	'
	Uncertain Income Tax Positions. The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balance of CenterPoint Houston’s unrecognized tax benefits:


		December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
		(in millions)
	Balance, beginning of year	$	—		$	44		$	232

	Tax Positions related to prior years:

	Additions	—			—			—

	Reductions	—			(46		)	(192		)


	Tax Positions related to current year:

	Additions	—			—			4

	Settlements	—			2			—

	Balance, end of year	$	—		$	—		$	44

Unaudited_Quarterly_Informatio1

Unaudited Quarterly Information Unaudited Quarterly Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Unaudited Quarterly Information [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	'
	Summarized quarterly financial data is as follows:


		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
		(in millions)
	Revenues	$	532	$	656	$	745	$	644

	Operating income	84		165		239		126

	Net income	19		73		126		51




		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
		(in millions)
	Revenues	$	531	$	676	$	748	$	585

	Operating income	107		191		242		99

	Net income	36		78		138		27

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]

Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]

CENTERPOINT ENERGY HOUSTON ELECTRIC, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

(An Indirect Wholly Owned Subsidiary of CenterPoint Energy, Inc.)

SCHEDULE II —VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

For the Three Years Ended December 31, 2013

(in millions)

Column A

Column B

Column C

Column D

Column E

Description

Balance At

Additions

Deductions

Balance At

Beginning

Charged

From

End Of

of Period

to Income

Reserves(1)

Period

Year Ended December 31, 2013:

Accumulated provisions:

Uncollectible accounts receivable

Year Ended December 31, 2012:

Accumulated provisions:

Uncollectible accounts receivable

Year Ended December 31, 2011:

Accumulated provisions:

Uncollectible accounts receivable

—

__________

-1

Deductions from reserves represent losses or expenses for which the respective reserves were created. In the case of the uncollectible accounts reserve, such deductions are net of recoveries of amounts previously written off.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of consolidated variable interest entities	4	'	'
Amount of removal costs recognized as a component of depreciation expense recorded as a regulatory liability	$349	$346	'
Amortization Period, Transition Property (in years)	'12 to 14 years	'	'
AFUDC interest	10	6	4
AFUDC equity	8	6	5
Allowance for doubtful accounts	3	2	'
Provision for doubtful accounts	2	2	2
Restricted cash accounts	41	54	'
Amount of cash and cash equivalents that is held by transition and system restoration bond subsidiaries solely to support servicing the transition and system restoration bonds	207	266	'
Customer deposits included in other current liabilities	$21	$27	'

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_D

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type [Abstract]	'	'	'
Total	$8,741	$8,204	'
Accumulated depreciation	2,907	2,839	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	5,834	5,365	'
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization [Abstract]	'	'	'
Depreciation expense	280	265	257
Amortization of securitized regulatory assets	383	442	308
Other amortization	22	22	22
Total depreciation and amortization	685	729	587
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	29	23	'
Accretion expense	1	1	'
Revisions in estimates of cash flows	3	5	'
Ending balance	33	29	23
Increase (decrease) in revisions in estimates of cash flows	3	5	'
Transmission [Member]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type [Abstract]	'	'	'
Total	1,926	1,851	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life, weighted average (in years)	'41	'	'
Distribution [Member]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type [Abstract]	'	'	'
Total	5,848	5,548	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life, weighted average (in years)	'29	'	'
Other [Member]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type [Abstract]	'	'	'
Total	$967	$805	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life, weighted average (in years)	'14	'	'

Regulatory_Matters_Regulatory_

Regulatory Matters Regulatory Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2005	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2004	Mar. 31, 2004
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory assets	'	'	$2,999,000,000		$3,388,000,000		'	'	'
Total regulatory liabilities	'	'	509,000,000		473,000,000		'	'	'
Total regulatory assets and liabilities, net	'	'	2,490,000,000		2,915,000,000		'	'	'
Amount of allowed equity return on the true-up balance that has not been recognized	'	'	508,000,000		'		'	'	'
Amount of allowed equity return on the true-up balance that was recognized in the period	'	'	45,000,000		47,000,000		21,000,000	'	'
Remaining amounts of regulatory assets for which no return on investment during recovery period is provided	'	'	5,000,000		14,000,000		'	'	'
Resolution of True-Up Appeal [Abstract]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Initial amount of true-up application	'	'	'		'		'	'	3,700,000,000
Amount awarded in final true-up order by the Texas Utility Commission	'	'	'		'		'	2,300,000,000	'
Net after-tax extraordinary gain (loss)	-947,000,000	598,000,000	0		0		598,000,000	'	'
Extraordinary Item, Gain (Loss), Gross	'	921,000,000	'		'		'	'	'
Tax Effect of Extraordinary Item, Gain (Loss)	'	232,000,000	'		'		'	'	'
Return on true-up balance	'	352,000,000	0		0		352,000,000	'	'
Return on true-up balance after tax	'	229,000,000	'		'		'	'	'
Equity Return portion of Recoverable True-Up Balance pre-tax	'	'	'		'		405,000,000	'	'
Equity Return portion of Recoverable True-Up Balance after-tax	'	'	'		'		263,000,000	'	'
Securitized regulatory asset [Member]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory assets	'	'	3,179,000,000		3,545,000,000		'	'	'
Unrecognized equity return [Member]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory assets	'	'	-508,000,000	[1]	-553,000,000	[1]	'	'	'
Unamortized loss on reacquired debt [Member]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory assets	'	'	111,000,000		119,000,000		'	'	'
Pension and postretirement-related regulatory asset [Member]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory assets	'	'	90,000,000	[2]	165,000,000	[2]	'	'	'
Other long-term regulatory assets [Member]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory assets	'	'	127,000,000	[3]	112,000,000	[3]	'	'	'
Estimated removal costs [Member]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory liabilities	'	'	349,000,000		346,000,000		'	'	'
Other long-term regulatory liabilities [Member]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Schedule Of Regulatory Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'	'	'
Total regulatory liabilities	'	'	$160,000,000		$127,000,000		'	'	'

[1]	As of DecemberÂ 31, 2013, CenterPoint Houston has not recognized an allowed equity return of $508Â million because such return will be recognized as it is recovered in rates. During the years ended DecemberÂ 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, CenterPoint Houston recognized approximately $45 million, $47 million and $21 million, respectively, of the allowed equity return.
[2]	CenterPoint Houstonâ€™s actuarially determined pension and other postemployment expense in excess of the amount being recovered through rates is being deferred for rate making purposes. Deferred pension and other postemployment expenses of $5Â million and $14 million as of DecemberÂ 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were not earning a return.
[3]	Other regulatory assets that are not earning a return were not material as of DecemberÂ 31, 2013 and 2012.

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Pension

Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Postretirement Benefits (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	$227		$268		'
New percentage of eligible earnings used to determine retirement benefits (in hundredths)	5.00%		'		'
Recognized pension expense	25		30		27
Non Qualified Pension Plan Expense	1		1		1
Maximum Percentage Of Employee Compensation Eligible For Contribution To Savings Plan	50.00%		'		'
Description Of Company Match Under Savings Plan	'100% of the first 6% of each employeeâ€™s compensation contributed		'		'
Savings Plan Benefit Expense	13		12		12
Components of net periodic costs [Abstract]	'		'		'
Service cost - benefits earned during the period	1		0		0
Interest cost on accumulated benefit obligation	13		16		16
Expected return on plan assets	-7		-7		-9
Amortization of transition obligation	6		6		6
Amortization of prior service cost	-1		0		0
Amortization of loss	4		3		1
Benefit enhancement	0		1		1
Net postretirement benefit cost	16		19		15
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit (income) cost [Abstract]	'		'		'
Discount rate (in hundredths)	3.90%		4.80%		5.20%
Expected return on plan assets (in hundredths)	6.00%		6.00%		7.50%
Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Accumulated benefit obligation, beginning of year	351		335		'
Service cost	1		0		'
Interest cost	13		16		'
Benefits paid	-19		-21		'
Participant contributions	3		2		'
Medicare drug reimbursement	1		2		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	-39		17		'
Accumulated benefit obligation, end of year	311		351		335
Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Plan assets, beginning of year	115	[1]	116		'
Benefits paid	-19		-21		'
Employer contributions	9		9		'
Participant contributions	3		2		'
Actual investment return	6		9		'
Plan assets, end of year	114	[2]	115	[1]	116
Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheets [Abstract]	'		'		'
Net liability, end of year	-197		-236		'
Actuarial Assumptions [Abstract]	'		'		'
Discount Rate (in hundredths)	4.75%		3.90%		'
Expected long-term return on assets	6.00%		6.00%		'
Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'		'		'
Prescription drug cost trend rate assumed for the next year	7.00%		9.00%		'
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)	5.50%		5.50%		'
Year that the healthcare rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	'2018		'2017		'
Year that the prescription drug rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	'2018		'2017		'
Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'		'		'
Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Postretirement Benefit Obligation	9		'		'
Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Postretirement Benefit Obligation	8		'		'
Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Total Service and Interest Cost	0		'		'
Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Total Service and Interest Cost	0		'		'
Annualized individual discount rates based on time period, minimum	'6 months		'		'
Annualized individual discount rates based on time period, maximum	'99 years		'		'
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	$197		$236		'
Age Pre 65 [Member]	'		'		'
Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'		'		'
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for the next year	7.00%		9.00%		'
Age Post 65 [Member] [Member]	'		'		'
Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'		'		'
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for the next year	7.50%		9.00%		'

[1]	74% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 8% is in international equities.
[2]	73% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 9% is in international equities.

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Plan_As

Employee Benefit Plans Plan Assets (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

U.S. Equity [Member]

International Equity [Member]

Fixed Income [Member]

Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]

Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]

Schedule Of Fair Value Of Financial Assets For Pension And Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]

Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum

13.00%

3.00%

68.00%

0.00%

Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum

23.00%

13.00%

78.00%

2.00%

Pension plan assets, fair value

$114

[1]

$115

[2]

$116

$114

[1]

$115

[2]

[1]

[2]

[1]

[2]

Percentage of investment in mutual funds allocated to fixed income securities under the postretirement plan

73.00%

74.00%

Percentage of investment in mutual funds allocated to U.S. equity securities under the postretirement plan

18.00%

Percentage of investment in mutual funds allocated to international equity securities under the postretirement plan

9.00%

8.00%

Estimated future contribution to postretirement benefit plan in next fiscal year

Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense

Expected Future Benefit Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]

Postretirement benefit payments - 2014

Postretirement benefit payments - 2015

Postretirement benefit payments - 2016

Postretirement benefit payments - 2017

Postretirement benefit payments - 2018

Postretirement benefit payments - 2019-2023

135

Medicare Subsidy Receipts - 2014

-2

Medicare Subsidy Receipts - 2015

-2

Medicare Subsidy Receipts - 2016

-2

Medicare Subsidy Receipts - 2017

-3

Medicare Subsidy Receipts - 2018

-3

Medicare Subsidy Receipts - 2019-2023

-18

Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]

Postemployment benefit obligations

Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]

Benefit expense related to deferred compensation plans

Other non-qualified plans benefit obligations deferred compensation

$13

$15

[1]

73% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 9% is in international equities.

[2]

74% of the amount invested in mutual funds is in fixed income securities; 18% is in U.S. equities and 8% is in international equities.

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Other_E

Employee Benefit Plans Other Employee Matters (Details)	12 Months Ended
Employee Benefit Plans Other Employee Matters (Details)	Dec. 31, 2013
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'
Number of full-time employees	2,629
Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements [Member]	'
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'
Concentration risk, percentage	49.00%

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Carrying Amount [Member]	'	'
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt, including current portion	$4,995	$6,043
Fair Value [Member]	'	'
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt, including current portion	5,165	6,636
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, including money market funds	38	51
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, including money market funds	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, including money market funds	$0	$0

Related_Party_Transactions_and1

Related Party Transactions and Major Customers (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Money Pool Borrowings	($3)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($3)	'	'
Investments (borrows) in Money Pool	'	'	'	'	433	'	'	'	'	433	'
Notes receivable from parent	'	'	'	'	750	'	'	'	'	750	'
Note receivable prime interest rate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3.25%	'	'	'
Interest Income (Expense) Net, Related Party	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	20	19	19
Corporate service charges	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	147	143	142
Revenues	644	745	656	532	585	748	676	531	2,577	2,540	2,337
Affiliates of NRG Energy, Inc. [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	658	648	594
Affiliates of Energy Future Holdings Corp. [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	167	162	182
Affiliates of Just Energy Group, Inc. [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$126	$102	$81

Longterm_Debt_Details

Long-term Debt (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

First mortgage bonds 9.15% due 2021(2)

General mortgage bonds 2.25% to 6.95% due 2022 to 2042

Pollution control bonds 4.25% to 5.60% due 2017 to 2027(3)

System restoration bonds 1.833% to 4.243% due 2014 to 2022

Transition bonds 0.90% to 5.302% due 2014 to 2024

Other

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

March 2013 [Member]

August 1st, 2013 [Member]

October 15th, 2013 [Member]

January 2014 [Member]

February 2014 [Member]

CenterPoint Houston [Member]

CenterPoint Energy [Member]

CenterPoint Houston [Member]

CenterPoint Energy [Member]

CenterPoint Houston [Member]

Bonds General Mortgage Due 2013 [Member]

Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]

Bonds First Mortgage Due2015 Member [Member]

Bonds Pollution Control Due2015 Member

Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]

Bonds Pollution Control Due2015 Member

Bonds Pollution Control Due2017 [Member]

Bonds Pollution Control Due2027 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum

2.25%

4.25%

1.83%

0.90%

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum

6.95%

5.60%

4.24%

5.30%

Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities

$4,641

$4,995

$102

[1]

$102

[1]

$1,312

$183

[2]

$183

[2]

$463

$510

$2,583

$2,890

($2)

Long-term Debt, Current Maturities

354

[3]

897

[3]

[1],[3]

[3]

450

[3]

[2],[3]

[3]

307

[3]

401

[3]

Debt Instrument, Term

'1 year

Extinguishment of Debt, Amount

450

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

9.15%

5.70%

4.00%

4.25%

5.60%

Extinguishment Of Debt Purchase Price Percentage Of Principal

101.00%

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

31-Dec-17

31-Dec-27

Special purpose subsidiaries

Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]

Size of Credit Facility

300

Loans Outstanding

Letters of Credit Outstanding

Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description

'112.5

Percentage on limitation of debt to total capitalization under covenant (in hundredths)

65.00%

Annual maturities of long-term debt [Abstract]

2014

354

2015

372

2016

391

2017

539

2018

434

Transition and system restoration bond principal repayments included in annual maturities [Abstract]

2014

354

2015

372

2016

391

2017

411

2018

434

Secured Debt

102

1,900

Replacement Fund Requirements

198

Sinking Fund Requirements

$1.60

[1]

Debt issued as collateral is excluded from the financial statements because of the contingent nature of the obligation.

[2]

These series of debt are collateralized by CenterPoint Houstonâ€™s general mortgage bonds.

[3]

Includes amounts due or scheduled to be paid within one year of the date noted.

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Current Income Tax Expense [Abstract]	'	'	'
Federal	$201	$160	$80
State	20	22	19
Total current expense	221	182	99
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract]	'	'	'
Federal	-75	-69	146
State	0	0	3
Total deferred expense (benefit)	-75	-69	149
Total income tax expense	146	113	248
Income Tax Reconciliation [Abstract]	'	'	'
Income before income taxes and extraordinary item	415	392	736
Federal statutory income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Expected federal income tax expense	145	137	258
Increase (decrease) in tax expense resulting from:	'	'	'
State income tax expense, net of federal income tax	13	14	15
Amortization of investment tax credit	0	-1	-6
Decrease in settled and uncertain tax positions	-5	-26	-4
Other, net	-7	-11	-15
Total	1	-24	-10
Total income tax expense	146	113	248
Effective tax rate	35.20%	28.80%	33.70%
Reduction In Liability For Uncertain Tax Positions	5	26	'
Investment Tax Credit	'	1	'
Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]	'	'	'
Allowance for doubtful accounts	1	1	'
Other	2	0	'
Total current deferred tax assets	3	1	'
Employee benefits	80	95	'
Other	17	9	'
Total non-current deferred tax assets	97	104	'
Total deferred tax assets	100	105	'
Depreciation	1,166	1,103	'
Regulatory assets, net	966	1,098	'
Total deferred tax liabilities	2,132	2,201	'
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net	2,032	2,096	'
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, beginning of year	0	44	232
Unrecognized tax benefits related to prior years [Abstract]	'	'	'
Additions	0	0	0
Reductions	0	-46	-192
Unrecognized tax positions related to current year [Abstract]	'	'	'
Additions	0	0	4
Settlements	0	2	0
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, end of year	0	0	44
Unrecognized tax benefits that would reduce effective tax rate	'	'	18
Unrecognized tax benefits interest on income tax expense	0	-5	-12
Unrecognized tax benefits interest on income taxes accrued	$6	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]	'	'	'
2014	$0	'	'
2015	0	'	'
2016	0	'	'
2017	0	'	'
2018	0	'	'
Operating lease rent expense	$1	$1	$1
Recovery of compensatory damages sought by plaintiffs	'1000000000	'	'
Approximate number of gas market manipulation lawsuits naming CenterPoint Energy and/or Reliant Energy (in number of lawsuits)	30	'	'
Number of gas market manipulation lawsuits pending for CenterPoint and its affiliates (in number of lawsuits)	1	'	'

Unaudited_Quarterly_Informatio2

Unaudited Quarterly Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Revenues	$644	$745	$656	$532	$585	$748	$676	$531	$2,577	$2,540	$2,337
Operating income	126	239	165	84	99	242	191	107	614	639	623
Net income	$51	$126	$73	$19	$27	$138	$78	$36	$269	$279	$1,086

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual1

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) (Allowance for Trade Receivables [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Allowance for Trade Receivables [Member]	'		'		'
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Balance at Beginning of Period	$2		$1		$0
Additions Charged to Income	2		2		2
Deductions From Reserves	1	[1]	1	[1]	1	[1]
Balance at End of Period	$3		$2		$1

[1]	Deductions from reserves represent losses or expenses for which the respective reserves were created. In the case of the uncollectible accounts reserve, such deductions are net of recoveries of amounts previously written off.