| Document and Entity Information Document | Feb. 14, 2022 | Oct. 28, 2020 |
| Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
| Document Type | 8-K | |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 14, 2022 | |
| Entity File Number | 001-34166 | |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE | |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 94-3008969 | |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 51 Rio Robles | |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Jose | |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA | |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 95134 | |
| City Area Code | 408 | |
| Local Phone Number | 240-5500 | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share | |
| Trading Symbol | SPWR | |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000867773 | |
| Entity Registrant Name | SUNPOWER CORP | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Written Communications | false | |
| Soliciting Material | false | |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false | |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
