Rentech (RTK) 10-K 16 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 27, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	RTK
Entity Registrant Name	RENTECH, INC.
Entity Central Index Key	868725
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		229,421,453
Entity Public Float			$577.70

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Cash	$44,195	$106,369
Accounts receivable, including unbilled revenue, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $500 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	33,619	14,227
Inventories	38,085	35,376
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	11,142	8,309
Deferred income taxes	1,870	1,140
Other receivables, net	10,715	7,432
Assets of discontinued operations	305	19
Total current assets	139,931	172,872
Property, plant and equipment, net	392,451	334,654
Construction in progress	179,423	60,136
Other assets
Goodwill	38,393	57,134
Intangible assets	61,804	59,730
Debt issuance costs	9,631	9,321
Deposits and other assets	4,840	5,092
Assets of discontinued operations	1,677	4,651
Total other assets	116,345	135,928
Total assets	828,150	703,590
Current liabilities
Accounts payable	31,439	19,875
Accrued payroll and benefits	7,185	9,155
Accrued liabilities	37,406	33,953
Deferred revenue	28,607	21,643
Current portion of long term debt	17,784	9,916
Accrued interest	5,018	5,490
Earn-out consideration	5,000
Other	2,601	1,015
Liabilities of discontinued operations	1,711	2,003
Total current liabilities	136,751	103,050
Long-term liabilities
Debt	451,072	412,063
Earn-out consideration	1,295	1,544
Asset retirement obligation	4,404	2,995
Deferred income taxes	9,850	9,271
Other	5,883	6,711
Total long-term liabilities	472,504	432,584
Total liabilities	609,255	535,634
Commitments and contingencies (Note 15)
Stockholders' equity
Common stock - $.01 par value; 450,000 shares authorized; 229,308 and 227,512 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	2,293	2,275
Additional paid-in capital	543,091	541,254
Accumulated deficit	-417,349	-385,339
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-7,302	-117
Total Rentech stockholders' equity	120,733	158,073
Noncontrolling interests	3,102	9,883
Total equity	123,835	167,956
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	828,150	703,590
Series E Preferred Stock [Member]
Mezzanine equity
Preferred stock	95,060
Series A Convertible Preferred Shares [Member]
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock
Series C Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock
Series D Junior Participating Preferred Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Allowance for accounts receivable	$500	$500
Preferred stock, par value	$10	$10
Mezzanine, preferred stock, dividend rate	4.50%
Preferred stock, shares authorized	1,000,000	1,000,000
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	450,000,000	450,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	229,308,000	227,512,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	229,308,000	227,512,000
Series E Preferred Stock [Member]
Mezzanine, preferred stock, par value	$10	$0
Mezzanine, preferred stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	0
Mezzanine, preferred stock, shares issued	100,000,000	0
Mezzanine, preferred stock, shares outstanding	100,000,000	0
Mezzanine, preferred stock, dividend rate	4.50%	0.00%
Series A Convertible Preferred Shares [Member]
Preferred stock, shares authorized	90,000	90,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	90,000	90,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Preferred stock, liquidation preference per share	$0	$0
Series C Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock, par value	$10	$10
Preferred stock, shares authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Series D Junior Participating Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock, par value	$10	$10
Preferred stock, shares authorized	45,000	45,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues
Product sales	$400,282	$322,022	$261,284
Service revenues	70,317	49,822
Other revenues	2,062	2,505	351
Total revenues	472,661	374,349	261,635
Cost of sales
Product	335,544	252,741	129,796
Service	57,443	38,222
Total cost of sales	392,987	290,963	129,796
Gross profit	79,674	83,386	131,839
Operating expenses
Selling, general and administrative expense	66,901	51,367	43,727
Depreciation and amortization	4,396	2,991	2,144
Pasadena goodwill impairment	27,202	30,029
Loss on sale of assets and impairments	245	878	510
Total operating expenses	98,744	85,265	46,381
Operating income (loss)	-19,070	-1,879	85,458
Other income (expense), net
Interest expense	-22,334	-16,385	-10,524
Agrifos settlement	5,632
Loss on debt extinguishment	-1,485	-6,001	-4,801
Gain (loss) on fair value adjustment to earn-out consideration	-1,033	5,122
Other income (expense), net	422	-277	-695
Total other expenses, net	-18,798	-17,541	-16,020
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in loss of investee	-37,868	-19,420	69,438
Income tax (benefit) expense	1,502	-26,306	4,375
Income (loss) from continuing operations before equity in loss of investee	-39,370	6,886	65,063
Equity in loss of investee	393	242
Income (loss) from continuing operations	-39,763	6,644	65,063
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	7,259	-6,606	-37,376
Net income (loss)	-32,504	38	27,687
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	494	-1,570	-41,687
Preferred stock dividends	-3,840
Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech common shareholders	($35,850)	($1,532)	($14,000)
Basic:
Continuing operations	($0.19)	$0.02	$0.10
Discontinued operations	$0.03	($0.03)	($0.17)
Net loss	($0.16)	($0.01)	($0.06)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	($0.19)	$0.02	$0.10
Discontinued operations	$0.03	($0.03)	($0.16)
Net loss	($0.16)	($0.01)	($0.06)
Weighted-average shares used to compute net income (loss) per common share:
Basic	228,560	226,139	223,189
Diluted	228,560	233,703	230,524

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	($32,504)	$38	$27,687
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Pension and postretirement plan adjustments	-1,304	1,143	166
Foreign currency translation	-6,405	-907	6
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-7,709	236	172
Comprehensive income (loss)	-40,213	274	27,859
Less: net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	494	-1,570	-41,687
Less: other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	524	-458	-67
Comprehensive loss attributable to Rentech	($39,195)	($1,754)	($13,895)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	Total Rentech Stockholders' Equity [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
In Thousands, except Share data
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$248,273	$2,252	$576,403	($369,807)		$208,848	$39,425
Beginning balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2011		225,231,000
Agrifos acquisition settlement	20,000		11,177			11,177	8,823
Common stock issued for services		2	-2
Common stock issued for services, Shares		259,000
Common stock issued for acquisition		20	-20
Common stock issued for acquisition, Shares		2,000,000
Common stock issued for stock options exercised	290	3	287			290
Common stock issued for stock options exercised, Shares	276,000	264,000
Common stock issued for warrants exercised	2,440	34	2,406			2,440
Common stock issued for warrants exercised, Shares		3,371,000
Payment of stock issuance costs	-40		-40			-40
Distributions	-44,100		-44,100			-44,100
Distribution to noncontrolling interests	-47,205						-47,205
Equity-based compensation expense	10,849		9,737			9,737	1,112
Restricted stock units	-2,527	21	-2,548			-2,527
Restricted stock units, Shares		2,080,000
Repurchase of common stock, including commissions	-16,721	-91	-16,630			-16,721
Repurchase of common stock, including commissions, Shares		-9,084,000
Income tax provision true-up for prior year equity adjustment	2,757		2,757			2,757
Net income (loss)	27,687			-14,000		-14,000	41,687
Other comprehensive income (loss)	172				105	105	67
Other	-807		21			21	-828
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2012	201,068	2,241	539,448	-383,807	105	157,987	43,081
Ending balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2012		224,121,000
Noncontrolling interests	4,000						4,000
Acquisition for additional interest in subsidiary	-2,500		-536			-536	-1,964
Common stock issued for services		2	-2
Common stock issued for services, Shares		178,000
Common stock issued for stock options exercised	298	5	293			298
Common stock issued for stock options exercised, Shares	711,000	533,000
Payment of stock issuance costs	-48		-48			-48
Distribution to noncontrolling interests	-37,329						-37,329
Equity-based compensation expense	7,400		6,814			6,814	586
Restricted stock units	-4,688	27	-4,715			-4,688
Restricted stock units, Shares		2,680,000
Net income (loss)	38			-1,532		-1,532	1,570
Other comprehensive income (loss)	236				-222	-222	458
Other	-519						-519
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2013	167,956	2,275	541,254	-385,339	-117	158,073	9,883
Ending balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2013		227,512,000
Common stock issued for stock options exercised	93	2	91			93
Common stock issued for stock options exercised, Shares	393,000	214,000
Dividends - preferred stock	-3,840		-3,840			-3,840
Distribution to noncontrolling interests	-4,907						-4,907
Equity-based compensation expense	6,813		6,297			6,297	516
Restricted stock units	-1,015	16	-1,031			-1,015
Restricted stock units, Shares		1,582,000
Net income (loss)	-32,504			-32,010		-32,010	-494
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-7,709				-7,185	-7,185	-524
Other	-1,052		320			320	-1,372
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$123,835	$2,293	$543,091	($417,349)	($7,302)	$120,733	$3,102
Ending balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2014		229,308,000

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)	($32,504)	$38	$27,687
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities
Depreciation and amortization	36,445	21,184	14,824
Pasadena goodwill impairment	27,202	30,029
Deferred income tax benefit	-316	-27,130
Loss on asset impairments	2,949		15,965
Utilization of spare parts	6,441	3,821	2,042
Write-down of inventory	6,045	12,360
Non-cash interest expense	521	248	7,138
Net (gain) loss on sale of assets	-14,684	-5,379	272
Loss on debt extinguishment	1,485	6,001	4,801
Equity-based compensation	6,813	7,400	10,849
Unrealized loss on derivatives	3,807
Other	648	957	181
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	-16,994	-585	927
Other receivables	-4,030	3,326	124
Inventories	-5,714	-18,075	8,727
Other assets	322	-766	2,807
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-2,524	380	-571
Accounts payable	5,834	-7,048	1,810
Deferred revenue	6,964	-9,115	-3,954
Accrued interest	199	4,110
Accrued liabilities, accrued payroll and other	-3,974	-9,402	-23,392
Net cash provided by operating activities	24,935	12,354	70,237
Cash flows from investing activities
Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-32,448	-65,823	-128,596
Capital expenditures	-174,511	-104,705	-59,131
Proceeds from disposal of assets	14,392	8,991	569
Other items	2,556	-657	-1,040
Net cash used in investing activities	-190,011	-162,194	-188,198
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of notes		320,000
Proceeds from preferred stock, net of discount and issuance costs	94,495
Payment of offering costs	-16	-972	-245
Proceeds from credit facilities and term loan, net of original issue discount	80,606	65,600	222,780
Payments and retirement of debt	-61,459	-223,105	-86,990
Repurchase of common stock, including commissions			-16,721
Payment of stock issuance costs		-48	-40
Proceeds from options and warrants exercised	93	297	2,729
Payment of debt issuance costs	-2,794	-9,972	-7,788
Dividends to preferred stockholders	-2,900
Distributions			-43,301
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	-4,907	-37,329	-47,205
Other		2	-1,000
Net cash provided by financing activities	103,118	114,473	22,219
Effect of exchange rate on cash	-216
Decrease in cash	-62,174	-35,367	-95,742
Cash, beginning of period	106,369	141,736	237,478
Cash, end of period	44,195	106,369	141,736
Cash payments of interest
Net of capitalized interest of $7,064 (Dec 2014), $3,246 (Dec 2013) and $701 (Dec 2012)	21,528	12,367	3,805
Cash payments of income taxes from continuing operations	863	288	8,609
Restricted stock units surrendered for withholding taxes payable	1,016	4,688	2,527
Units issued for acquisition			20,000
Fair value of assets in acquisition	55,642	185,399
Fair value of liabilities assumed in acquisition	16,367	117,231
Contingent consideration	3,840	1,850
Purchase of property, plant, equipment and construction in progress in accounts payable and accrued liabilities	24,164	20,503	5,301
Increase in QS Construction Facility obligation	16,923	5,181
Accrued dividends on preferred stock	2,625
Increase in asset retirement obligation	$1,265

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas1

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Capitalized interest	$7,064	$3,246	$701

Description_of_Business

Description of Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Description of Business	Note 1 — Description of Business
	Description of Business and Basis of Presentation
	Rentech, Inc. (“Rentech,” “the Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) operates currently in five segments including East Dubuque, Pasadena, Fulghum Fibres, Wood Pellets: Industrial and Wood Pellets: NEWP.
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly owned subsidiaries and all subsidiaries in which the Company directly or indirectly owns a controlling financial interest. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Nitrogen Fertilizer:
	The Company through its indirect majority-owned subsidiary, Rentech Nitrogen Partners, L.P. (“RNP”), owns and operates two fertilizer facilities: the Company’s East Dubuque Facility and the Company’s Pasadena Facility, referred to collectively as the “Fertilizer Facilities.” Our East Dubuque Facility is located in East Dubuque, Illinois. The Company produces primarily ammonia and urea ammonium nitrate solution (“UAN”) at the Company’s East Dubuque Facility, using natural gas as the facility’s primary feedstock. Our Pasadena Facility, which the Company acquired in November 2012, is located in Pasadena, Texas. The Company produces ammonium sulfate, ammonium thiosulfate and sulfuric acid at the Company’s Pasadena Facility, using ammonia and sulfur as the facility’s primary feedstocks. The noncontrolling interests reflected on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets are affected by the net income (loss) of, and distribution from, RNP.
	Rentech Nitrogen Holdings, Inc. (“RNHI”), Rentech’s indirect wholly owned subsidiary, owns approximately 60% of RNP common units outstanding and Rentech Nitrogen GP, LLC (the “General Partner”), RNHI’s wholly owned subsidiary, owns 100% of the non-economic general partner interest in RNP.
	On November 1, 2012, RNP completed its acquisition of 100% of the membership interests of Agrifos LLC (“Agrifos”) from Agrifos Holdings Inc. (the “Seller”), pursuant to a Membership Interest Purchase Agreement (the “Agrifos Purchase Agreement”). Upon the closing of this transaction (the “Agrifos Acquisition”), Agrifos became a wholly owned subsidiary of RNP and its name changed to Rentech Nitrogen Pasadena Holdings, LLC (“RNPH”). RNPH owns all of the member interests in Rentech Nitrogen Pasadena, LLC (“RNPLLC”), formerly known as Agrifos Fertilizer, LLC, which owns and operates the Pasadena Facility. For information on the Agrifos Acquisition refer to Note 5 — Agrifos Acquisition.
	Fulghum Fibres:
	On May 1, 2013, the Company acquired all of the capital stock of Fulghum Fibres, Inc. (“Fulghum”). Upon the closing of this transaction (the “Fulghum Acquisition”), Fulghum became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. Fulghum provides wood yard operation services and high-quality wood chipping services, and produces and sells wood chips to the pulp, paper and packaging industry. Fulghum operates 31 wood chipping mills, of which 26 are located in the United States, four are located in Chile and one is located in Uruguay. The noncontrolling interests reflected on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet also represent the non-acquired ownership interests in the subsidiaries located in Chile and Uruguay. Fulghum currently owns 88% of the equity interests in the subsidiaries located in Chile and 87% of the equity interests in the subsidiary located in Uruguay. For information on the Fulghum Acquisition refer to “Note 4 — Fulghum Acquisition”.
	Each of Fulghum’s United States mills typically operates under an exclusive processing agreement with a single customer. Under each agreement, the customer is responsible for procuring and delivering wood, and Fulghum is paid a processing fee based on tons processed, with minimum and maximum fees tied to volumes. Under our processing agreements, the customer generally has the opportunity to make up for any shortfall below minimum volume requirements with additional volumes in subsequent months before it is required to pay a shortfall fee. Generally, under the terms of the Company’s processing agreements, customers have the option to purchase the mill equipment for a pre-negotiated amount (which decreases over time) and, in some cases, customers have the option to acquire the land. Fulghum’s Chilean operations also include the sale of wood chips for export and the local sale of bark for power production. In both situations, the wood is purchased by Fulghum.
	In connection with the Fulghum Acquisition, the Company entered into a joint venture with Graanul Invest AS (“Graanul”), a European producer of wood pellets, for the potential development and construction of, and investment in, wood pellet plants in the United States and Canada. The Company and Graanul each own 50% equity interests in the joint venture (the “Rentech/Graanul JV”) which is accounted for under the equity method. The two facilities under development in Eastern Canada will not be owned by the Rentech/Graanul JV. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Rentech/Graanul JV’s loss, which is shown as equity in loss of investee in the consolidated statements of operations, was $0.4 million and $0.2 million for the period May 1, 2013 through December 31, 2013.
	Wood Pellets: Industrial:
	The Company is developing two facilities in Eastern Canada to produce and sell wood pellets for use as renewable fuel to produce electricity. See “Note 11 — Property, Plant and Equipment” for a description of the two facilities and “Note 15 — Commitments and Contingencies” for major contracts and commitments for this business segment.
	Wood Pellets: NEWP:
	On May 1, 2014, the Company acquired all of the equity interests of New England Wood Pellet, LLC (“NEWP”), pursuant to a Unit Purchase Agreement (the “NEWP Purchase Agreement”). Upon the closing of the transaction (the “NEWP Acquisition”), NEWP became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. NEWP is one of the largest producers of wood pellets for the United States residential and commercial heating markets. NEWP operates three wood pellet processing facilities with a combined annual production capacity of 240,000 tons. The facilities are located in Jaffrey, New Hampshire; Deposit, New York; and Schuyler, New York. For information on the NEWP Acquisition, refer to “Note 3 — NEWP Acquisition” and “Note 25 — Subsequent Events, Acquisition”.
	Liquidity
	During the next 12 months, the Company expects the liquidity needs of its wood fibre processing business, including announced ongoing construction projects, and of its corporate activities to be met from: (i) cash on hand, (ii) distributions from RNP, (iii) cash generated by its wood fibre processing business, (iv) borrowings under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement, as defined in Note 14 — Debt, and (v) in the case of capital expenditures and working capital in Chile, Chilean bank debt financing. The Company expects that it would need to seek additional funds from its investors or in the capital markets if any of the following circumstances occur: (i) the sources of funds summarized in this paragraph were less than expected, (ii) its expenses, including capital expenditures to complete and commission the Atikokan and Wawa Projects, as defined in Note 11 — Property, Plant and Equipment, were higher than expected, (iii) the cash flow from the Atikokan or Wawa Facilities, as defined in Note 11 — Property, Plant and Equipment, were less than or later than expected, or (iv) the Company were to approve new capital projects, enter into additional commitments or acquire assets in addition to those that could be funded from the sources identified above. The Company may not be able to obtain funding in the equity or debt capital markets on terms it finds acceptable if it were to need such financing. A potential additional source of capital that could be available to fund shortfalls in the event of the possible circumstances mentioned above or to enhance expected liquidity would be the sale of some or all of the 3.1 million common units of RNP that the Company owns, once those units are released from the pledge under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement. The Company expects those units to be released no later than April 2, 2015.
	Discontinued Operations
	The Company was initially formed to develop and commercialize certain alternative energy technologies, and it acquired other energy technologies that the Company further developed. The Company conducted significant research and development and project development activities related to those technologies. In 2013, the Company ceased operations and reduced staffing at, and mothballed, its PDU, located in Commerce City, Colorado. The Company also eliminated all research and development activities in the first half of 2013. In October 2014, the Company sold its alternative energy technologies and certain pieces of equipment at the PDU. Any ongoing activities related to its alternative energy technologies will be to maintain the Commerce City site until it is sold and the natural gas pipeline at Natchez until it is abandoned. See “Note 7 — Discontinued Operations”.
	Prior Year Errors
	The Company identified errors that impacted product sales and cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2012. The impact of correcting these errors in 2013 increased operating income by $0.2 million. Management does not believe the impact of these errors was material to 2013 or any previously issued financial statements.

Summary_of_Certain_Significant

Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies	Note 2 — Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Revenue Recognition
	East Dubuque and Pasadena Policy
	Product sales revenues from the Fertilizer Facilities are recognized when customers take ownership upon shipment from the Fertilizer Facilities, the East Dubuque Facility’s leased facility or the Pasadena Facility’s distributors’ facilities and (i) customer assumes risk of loss, (ii) there are no uncertainties regarding customer acceptance, (iii) collection of the related receivable is probable, (iv) persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and (v) the sales price is fixed or determinable. Management assesses the business environment, the customer’s financial condition, historical collection experience, accounts receivable aging and customer disputes to determine whether collectability is reasonably assured. If collectability is not considered reasonably assured at the time of sale, the Company does not recognize revenue until collection occurs.
	Natural gas, though not typically purchased for the purpose of resale, is occasionally sold by the East Dubuque Facility when contracted quantities received are in excess of production and storage capacities, in which case the sales price is recorded in product sales and the related cost is recorded in cost of sales. Natural gas sales were $6.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, $3.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	East Dubuque Contracts
	RNLLC has a distribution agreement (the “Distribution Agreement”) with Agrium U.S.A., Inc. (“Agrium”). The Distribution Agreement is for a 10 year period, subject to renewal options. Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, Agrium is obligated to use commercially reasonable efforts to promote the sale of, and solicit and secure orders from its customers for nitrogen fertilizer products manufactured at the East Dubuque Facility, and to purchase from RNLLC nitrogen fertilizer products manufactured at the facility for prices to be negotiated in good faith from time to time. Under the Distribution Agreement, Agrium is appointed as the exclusive distributor for the sale, purchase and resale of nitrogen products manufactured at the East Dubuque Facility. Sale terms are negotiated and approved by RNLLC. Agrium bears the credit risk on products sold through Agrium pursuant to the Distribution Agreement. If an agreement is not reached on the terms and conditions of any proposed Agrium sale transaction, RNLLC has the right to sell to third parties provided the sale is on the same timetable and volumes and at a price not lower than the one proposed by Agrium. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Distribution Agreement accounted for 78%, 79% and 83%, respectively, of net revenues from product sales for the East Dubuque Facility. Receivables from Agrium accounted for 36% and 84% of the total accounts receivable balance of the East Dubuque Facility as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Agrium made more timely payments in 2014 than in 2013 which accounted for the lower percentage in 2014.
	RNLLC negotiates sales with other customers and these transactions are not subject to the terms of the Distribution Agreement.
	Under the Distribution Agreement, the East Dubuque Facility pays commissions to Agrium not to exceed $5 million during each contract year on applicable gross sales during the first 10 years of the agreement. The effective commission rate for the year ended December 31, 2014 was 3.4%, 3.6% for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2.7% for the year ended December 31, 2012. The commission expense was recorded in cost of sales for all periods.
	Pasadena Contracts
	RNPLLC sells substantially all of its products through marketing and distribution agreements. Pursuant to an exclusive marketing agreement RNPLLC has entered into with Interoceanic Corporation (“IOC”), IOC has the exclusive right and obligation to market and sell all of the Pasadena Facility’s ammonium sulfate product. Under the marketing agreement, IOC is required to use commercially reasonable efforts to market the product to obtain the most advantageous price. RNPLLC compensates IOC for transportation and storage costs relating to the ammonium sulfate product it markets through the pricing structure under the marketing agreement. The marketing agreement has a term that ends December 31, 2016, but automatically renews for subsequent one-year periods (unless either party delivers a termination notice to the other party at least 210 days prior to an automatic renewal). The marketing agreement may be terminated prior to its stated term for specified causes. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and the period beginning November 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012, the marketing agreement with IOC accounted for 100% of the Pasadena Facility’s revenues from the sale of ammonium sulfate. In addition, RNPLLC has an arrangement with IOC that permits RNPLLC to store approximately 60,000 tons of ammonium sulfate at IOC-controlled terminals, which are located near end customers of the Pasadena Facility’s ammonium sulfate. This arrangement currently is not governed by a written contract. RNPLLC also has marketing and distribution agreements to sell other products that automatically renew for successive one year periods.
	Fulghum Fibres Contracts
	Tolling and Offtake Arrangements – Fulghum has wood chip processing and wood yard operation agreements, which contain embedded leases for accounting purposes. This generally occurs when the agreement designates a specific chip mill or pellet plant in which the buyer purchases substantially all of the output and does not otherwise meet a fixed price per unit of output exception. The Company determined that these are operating leases.
	A tolling and offtake agreement that does not contain a lease may be classified as a derivative subject to a normal purchase and sale exception, in which case the agreement is classified as an executory contract and accounted for on an accrual basis. Tolling and offtake agreements, and components of these agreements that do not meet the above classifications, are accounted for on an accrual basis.
	For sales which are not accounted for as operating leases as described above, the Company recognizes revenue at the time the service is provided or when customers take ownership upon shipment from the facilities of the chips or bark and assumes risk of loss, collection of the related receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. Revenues associated with tolling arrangements are included in service revenues and sales of product under offtake agreements are included in product sales in our consolidated statements of operations.
	Wood Pellets: Industrial
	The Company recognizes revenue at the time when customers take ownership upon shipment of the pellets and assumes risk of loss, collection of the related receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable.
	Wood Pellets: NEWP
	The Company recognizes revenue at the time when customers take ownership upon shipment from the facilities of the pellets and assumes risk of loss, collection of the related receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. Two customers accounted for 40% of NEWP’s total sales for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	Deferred Revenue
	A significant portion of the revenue recognized during any period may be related to prepaid contracts or products stored at distributor facilities, for which cash was collected during an earlier period, with the result that a significant portion of revenue recognized during a period may not generate cash receipts during that period. As of December 31, 2014 deferred revenue was $28.6 million and $21.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. At the East Dubuque Facility, the Company records a liability for deferred revenue to the extent that payment has been received under prepaid contracts, which create obligations for delivery of product within a specified period of time in the future. The terms of these prepaid contracts require payment in advance of delivery. At the Pasadena Facility, our distributor pre-pays a portion of the sales price for shipments received into its storage facilities which is recorded as deferred revenue. The Company recognizes revenue related to the prepaid contracts or products stored at distributor facilities and relieves the liability for deferred revenue when products are shipped (including shipments to end customers from distributor facilities).
	Cost of Sales
	Cost of sales are comprised of manufacturing costs related to the Company’s fertilizer products and processing costs for services. Cost of sales expenses include direct materials (such as natural gas, ammonia, sulfur and sulfuric acid), direct labor, indirect labor, employee fringe benefits, depreciation on plant machinery, electricity and other costs, including shipping and handling charges incurred to transport products sold.
	Cost of sales are also comprised of manufacturing costs related to the Company’s wood pellet products and processing costs for services. Cost of sales expenses include direct materials (such as wood and packaging materials), direct labor, indirect labor, employee fringe benefits, depreciation on plant machinery, electricity and other costs, including freight charges incurred to transport products sold related to freight revenues.
	The Company enters into short-term contracts to purchase physical supplies of natural gas in fixed quantities at both fixed and indexed prices. The Company anticipates that it will physically receive the contract quantities and use them in the production of fertilizer. The Company believes it is probable that the counterparties will fulfill their contractual obligations when executing these contracts. Natural gas purchases, including the cost of transportation to the East Dubuque Facility, are recorded at the point of delivery into the pipeline system.
	Accounting for Derivative Instruments
	Accounting guidance establishes accounting and reporting requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. This guidance requires recognition of all derivative instruments as assets or liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and measurement of those instruments at fair value. The accounting treatment of changes in fair value is dependent upon whether or not a derivative instrument is designated as a hedge and if so, the type of hedge. The Company currently does not designate any of its derivatives as hedges for financial accounting purposes. Gains and losses on derivative instruments not designated as hedges are currently included in earnings and reported under cash flows from operating activities.
	Cash
	The Company has checking and savings accounts with major financial institutions. At times balances with these institutions may be in excess of federally insured limits.
	Accounts and Other Receivables
	Trade receivables are recorded at net realizable value. The allowance for doubtful accounts reflects the Company’s best estimate of probable losses inherent in the accounts receivable balance. The Company determines the allowance based on known troubled accounts, historical experience, and other currently available evidence. The Company reviews its allowance for doubtful accounts quarterly. Past due balances over 90 days and over a specified amount are reviewed individually for collectibility. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.
	Inventories
	Inventories consist of raw materials and finished goods. The primary raw material used by the East Dubuque Facility in the production of its nitrogen products is natural gas. The primary raw materials used by the Pasadena Facility in the production of its products are ammonia and sulfur. Raw materials also include certain chemicals used in the manufacturing process. Fulghum Fibres’ raw materials inventory consists of purchased roundwood to be chipped at its South American mills. Finished goods include the products stored at the Fertilizer Facilities that are ready for shipment along with any inventory that may be stored at remote facilities, and Fulghum Fibres’ processed wood chips. Raw materials at the wood pellet facilities primarily consist of wood fibre. Raw materials at NEWP primarily consist of wood chips and sawdust procured from third parties, and packaging materials. Inventories on the consolidated balance sheets included depreciation in the amount of $2.1 million at December 31, 2014 and $1.2 million at December 31, 2013.
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or estimated net realizable value. The cost of inventories is determined using the first-in first-out method. The estimated net realizable value is based on customer orders, market trends and historical pricing. On at least a quarterly basis, the Company performs an analysis of its inventory balances to determine if the carrying amount of inventories exceeds its net realizable value. If the carrying amount exceeds the estimated net realizable value, the carrying amount is reduced to the estimated net realizable value. During turnarounds at the East Dubuque and Pasadena Facilities, the Company allocates fixed production overhead costs to inventory based on the normal capacity of its production facilities and unallocated overhead costs are recognized as expense in the period incurred.
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation expense is generally calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
	Type of Asset	Estimated Useful Life
	Land improvements	5-20 years
	Building and building improvements	4-40 years
	Machinery and equipment	7-22 years
	Furniture, fixtures and office equipment	3-10 years
	Computer equipment and software	2-5 years
	Vehicles	2-15 years
	Leasehold improvements	Useful life or remaining lease term whichever is shorter
	Expenditures during turnarounds or at other times for improving, replacing or adding to RNP’s assets are capitalized. Expenditures for the acquisition, construction or development of new assets to maintain operating capacity, or to comply with environmental, health, safety or other regulations, are also capitalized. Costs of general maintenance and repairs are expensed.
	When property, plant and equipment is retired or otherwise disposed of, the asset and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in operating expenses.
	Spare parts are maintained by the facilities to reduce the length of possible interruptions in plant operations from an infrastructure breakdown at the facilities. The spare parts may be held for use for years before the spare parts are used. As a result, they are capitalized as a fixed asset at cost. When spare parts are utilized, the book values of the assets are charged to earnings as a cost of production. Periodically, the spare parts are evaluated for obsolescence and impairment and if the value of the spare parts is impaired, it is charged against earnings.
	Long-lived assets, construction in progress and identifiable intangible assets are reviewed whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the expected future cash flow from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized and measured using the asset’s fair value.
	The Company capitalizes certain direct development costs associated with internal-use software, including external direct costs of material and services, and payroll costs for employees devoting time to software implementation projects. Costs incurred during the preliminary project stage, as well as maintenance and training costs, are expensed as incurred.
	Asset Retirement Obligations:
	The Company has recorded asset retirement obligations (“AROs”) related to future costs associated with (i) the removal of contaminated material at the former phosphorous plant at the Pasadena Facility, (ii) disposal of asbestos at the East Dubuque Facility and (iii) removal of machinery and equipment at Fulghum mills on leased property. The fair value of a liability for an ARO is recorded in the period in which it is incurred and the cost of such liability increases the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset by the same amount. The liability is accreted each period through charges to operating expense and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset. The liability was $4.4 million at December 31, 2014 and $3.0 million at December 31, 2013.
	A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of the AROs is as follows:
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	3,014
	Accretion expense		125
	Revisions in the estimated cash flows		1,265
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	4,404
	Construction in Progress
	The Company tracks project development costs and capitalizes those costs after a project has completed the scoping phase and enters the feasibility phase. The most significant projects under construction are the Atikokan and Wawa Facilities at December 31, 2014. The Company also capitalizes costs for improvements to the existing machinery and equipment at the Fertilizer Facilities and certain costs associated with the Company’s information technology initiatives. Interest incurred on development and construction projects is capitalized until construction is complete. The Company does not depreciate construction in progress costs until the underlying assets are placed into service.
	Acquisition Method of Accounting
	The Company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires, among other things, that assets acquired, liabilities assumed and earn-out consideration be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date. The Company has recognized goodwill and intangibles related to its acquisitions as described in “Note 3 — NEWP Acquisition” and “Note 4 — Fulghum Acquisition”. The earn-out consideration will be measured at each reporting date with changes in its fair value recognized in the consolidated statements of operations.
	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually, or more often if an event or circumstance indicates that an impairment may have occurred. The analysis of the potential impairment of goodwill is a two-step process. Step one of the impairment test consists of comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with the aggregate carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, step two must be performed to determine the amount, if any, of the goodwill impairment.
There are significant assumptions involved in performing a goodwill impairment test, which include discount rates, terminal growth rates, future sales prices of end products, raw material costs, and sales volumes. The various valuation methods used (income approach, replacement cost and market approach) are weighted in determining fair value. Changes to any of these assumptions could increase or decrease the fair value of the Fulghum and NEWP reporting units. See Note 12 — Goodwill.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets arose in conjunction with the NEWP Acquisition, Fulghum Acquisition and Agrifos Acquisition (See “Note 3 — NEWP Acquisition” and “Note 4 — Fulghum Acquisition” and Note 5 — Agrifos Acquisition). NEWP’s intangible assets consist of trade names, customer relationships and non-compete agreements. Fulghum’s intangible assets consist of trade names and processing agreements to provide services to its customers. Acquired trade names related to Fulghum were assessed as indefinite lived assets because there is no foreseeable limit on the period of time over which they are expected to contribute cash flows. Acquired trade names with indefinite lives are not amortized but are subject to an annual test for impairment and in between annual tests when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Acquired trade names related to NEWP are amortized over 20 years.
Intangible assets consist of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	2014			2013			Average Life
	(in thousands)
Trade names	$	10,496		$	5,496			20 / Indefinite
Wood chip processing agreements		29,765			29,765			17-Jan
Off-take contract		2,577			2,811			10
Technologies to produce fertilizers		23,680			23,680			20
Fertilizer marketing agreements		3,088			3,088			1.5
Customer relationships		1,900			—			13
Non-competition agreements		200			—			3
Intangibles, gross	$	71,706		$	64,840
Less: accumulated amortization		(9,902	)		(5,110	)
Intangibles, net	$	61,804		$	59,730
At December 31, 2014, accumulated amortization for trade names, processing agreements, technologies, marketing agreements and customer relationships was $0.4 million, $4.2 million, $2.6 million, $3.1 million, and $(0.4) million, respectively. The amortization of the assets in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 will result in amortization expense of $5.5 million, $4.3 million, $3.3 million, $3.2 million and $3.1 million, respectively.
We also have unfavorable processing agreements in the amount of $2.5 million related to Fulghum Acquisition, which are included in other liabilities both current and long term. These agreements along with processing agreements recorded in intangible assets are amortized over the economic life.
Technologies to produce fertilizers consist of certain proprietary technological processes, technological functions, intellectual property, formulations, and trade secrets to produce commercial volumes of synthetic ammonium sulfate fertilizer.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes under the liability method, which requires an entity to recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for temporary differences. Temporary differences are differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years. An income tax valuation allowance has been established to reduce the Company’s deferred tax asset to the amount that is expected to be realized in the future.
The Company recognizes in its consolidated financial statements only those tax positions that are “more-likely-than-not” of being sustained, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company performs a comprehensive review of its material tax positions in accordance with the applicable guidance.
Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Allocated To Rentech
Basic net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech is calculated by dividing net income (loss) allocated to Rentech by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech is calculated by dividing net income (loss) allocated to Rentech by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the dilutive effect, calculated using (i) the “treasury stock” method for the unvested restricted stock units, outstanding stock options and warrants and (ii) the “if converted” method for the preferred stock and convertible debt if their inclusion would not have been anti-dilutive.
Foreign Currency Translation
Assets and liabilities have been translated to the reporting currency using the exchange rates in effect on the consolidated balance sheet dates. Equity accounts are translated at historical rates, except for the change in retained earnings during the year which is the result of the income statement translation process. A portion of the intercompany balances between the Parent and certain foreign subsidiaries are classified as a long term investment because the Company does not intend to settle such accounts in the foreseeable future. Revenue and expense accounts are translated using the weighted average exchange rate during the period. The cumulative translation adjustments associated with the net assets of foreign subsidiaries are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the accompanying consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) includes all changes in consolidated stockholders’ equity during the period from non-owner sources. To date, accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is primarily comprised of adjustments to the defined benefit pension plans and the postretirement benefit plans and foreign currency translation.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss is $7.3 million and $0.1 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The balance at December 31, 2014 is comprised of foreign currency transaction adjustments of $(7.3) million and pension and post-retirement plan adjustments of $4,000. The balance at December 31, 2013 is comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments of $(0.9) million and pension and post-retirement plan adjustments of $0.8 million. Activity for the years ending December 31, 2014 and 2013 are reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss). The balance of the components as of December 31, 2012 are not material. There were no material amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income in any of the three years ending December 31, 2014.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued guidance as to when an unrecognized tax benefit should be classified as a reduction of a deferred tax asset or when it should be classified as a liability in the consolidated balance sheets. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013, and thus became effective for the Company’s interim period beginning on January 1, 2014. The adoption of this guidance did not have any impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or disclosures.
In April 2014, the FASB issued guidance that provides a narrower definition of discontinued operations than under previous guidance. It requires that only disposals of components of an entity (or groups of components) that represent a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on the reporting entity’s operations are to be reported in the financial statements as discontinued operations. It also provides guidance on the financial statement presentations and disclosures of discontinued operations. This guidance is effective prospectively for disposals (or classifications of held-for-sale) of components of an entity that occur in annual or interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The impact of this guidance is dependent on whether or not future disposals occur.
In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance that will significantly enhance comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is not permitted. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
In June 2014, the FASB issued guidance on accounting for share-based payments when the terms of an award provide that a performance target could be achieved after the requisite service period. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance on presentation of financial statements – going concern, which applies to all companies. It requires management to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. This guidance is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
In November 2014, the FASB issued guidance on hybrid financial instruments. The guidance does not change the current criteria for determining when separation of certain embedded derivative features in a hybrid financial instrument is required. The guidance clarifies that an entity should consider all relevant terms and features, including the embedded derivative feature being evaluated for bifurcation, in evaluating the nature of the host contract. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
In January 2015, the FASB issued guidance, which eliminates the concept of extraordinary items. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.

Acquisition

Acquisition	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fulghum [Member]
Acquisition	Note 4 — Fulghum Acquisition
	On May 1, 2013, the Company acquired all of the capital stock of Fulghum. The purchase price consisted of $64.2 million of cash, including $3.3 million used to retire certain debt of Fulghum at closing.
	This business combination has been accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. The Company’s final purchase price allocation is as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	10,137
	Accounts receivable			3,936
	Inventories			2,389
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			952
	Other receivables, net			5,435
	Property, plant and equipment			94,382
	Intangible assets (trade name—$5,496 and processing agreements—$29,765)			35,261
	Goodwill			29,932
	Other assets			2,974
	Accounts payable			(6,547	)
	Accrued liabilities			(5,823	)
	Customer deposits			(1,059	)
	Asset retirement obligation			(178	)
	Credit facility and loans			(61,865	)
	Unfavorable processing agreements			(6,496	)
	Deferred income taxes			(35,262	)
	Noncontrolling interests			(4,000	)
	Total purchase price		$	64,168
	Long-term deferred tax liabilities and other tax liabilities result from fair value adjustments to identifiable tangible and intangible assets. These adjustments create book basis higher than the tax basis. The excess is multiplied by the statutory tax rate for the jurisdiction and period in which the deferred taxes are expected to be realized. As part of purchase accounting for Fulghum, we recorded additional deferred tax liabilities of $15.8 million attributable to identifiable tangible and intangible assets.
	The goodwill recorded reflects that value to Rentech of Fulghum’s market position, of entry into the wood chipping business, and of the increases in Rentech’s products offerings, customer bases and geographic markets. The goodwill recorded as part of this acquisition is not amortizable for tax purposes.
	Fulghum’s operations are included in the consolidated statement of operations as of May 1, 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded revenue of $63.0 million and net income of $7.0 million related to Fulghum. Acquisition related costs for this acquisition totaled $1.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and have been included in the consolidated statements of operations within selling, general and administrative expense. See “Note 6 — Pro Forma Information” for unaudited pro forma information relating to the Fulghum Acquisition.
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Acquisition	Note 5 — Agrifos Acquisition
	On November 1, 2012, the Company acquired all of the membership interest of Agrifos. The purchase price for Agrifos and its subsidiaries consisted of an initial purchase price of $136.3 million in cash, less working capital adjustments, and $20.0 million in common units representing limited partnership interests in RNP (the “Common Units”), which reduced the Company’s ownership interest in RNP at the time from 60.8% to 59.9%, as well as potential earn-out consideration of up to $50.0 million to be paid in Common Units or cash at RNP’s option based on the amount by which the two-year Adjusted EBITDA, as defined in the Agrifos Purchase Agreement, of the Pasadena Facility exceeds certain thresholds. We deposited with an escrow agent in several escrow accounts a portion of the initial consideration consisting of an aggregate of $7.25 million in cash, and 323,276 Common Units to satisfy certain indemnity claims.
	In October 2014, RNP reached an agreement to settle all existing and future indemnity claims it may have under the Agrifos Purchase Agreement. The parties agreed to distribute $5.0 million of cash and 59,186 Common Units held in escrow to RNP. The remaining $0.9 million of cash and 264,090 Common Units held in escrow were released to the Seller. No earn-out consideration was earned. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recognized income from the Agrifos settlement of $5.6 million.
	This business combination has been accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires, among other things, that most assets acquired, liabilities assumed and earn-out consideration be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date.
	The purchase price consisted of the following (amounts in thousands):
	Cash (through borrowings under a previous credit agreement) less working capital adjustments		$	136,308
	Fair market value of 538,793 Common Units issued			20,000
	Estimate of potential earn-out consideration(1)			4,920
	Total purchase price		$	161,228
	-1	The amount of earn-out consideration reflected in the table above reflects the Company’s estimate, as of November 1, 2012, of the amount of the earn-out consideration RNP will be required to pay pursuant to the Agrifos Purchase Agreement, as defined in Note 8 — Fair Value. The earn-out consideration was measured at each reporting date with changes in its fair value recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2013, the fair value of the potential earn-out consideration was $0.
	RNP’s final purchase price allocation is as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	2,622
	Accounts receivable			3,204
	Inventories			30,373
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			566
	Property, plant and equipment			68,688
	Construction in progress			7,011
	Intangible assets (technology—$23,680 and marketing agreement—$3,088)			26,768
	Goodwill			57,231
	Other assets			73
	Accounts payable			(10,638	)
	Accrued liabilities			(6,640	)
	Customer deposits			(13,301	)
	Asset retirement obligation			(2,776	)
	Other long-term liabilities			(1,953	)
	Total purchase price		$	161,228
	The operations of Agrifos are included in the consolidated statement of operations effective November 1, 2012. During the calendar year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded revenue and net loss related to Agrifos of approximately $37.4 million and $2.6 million, respectively. Acquisition related costs for this acquisition totaled approximately $4.1 million for the calendar year ended December 31, 2012 and have been included in the consolidated statements of operations within selling, general and administrative expense.
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Acquisition	Note 3 — NEWP Acquisition
	On May 1, 2014, the Company acquired all of the equity interests of NEWP. This acquisition is consistent with the Company’s strategy of expanding its wood fibre business. The preliminary purchase price consisted of $35.4 million of cash as well as potential earn-out consideration of up to $5.0 million to be paid in cash. The amount of the purchase price is subject to certain potential post-closing adjustments set forth in the NEWP Purchase Agreement.
	This business combination has been accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires, among other things, that assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date.
	The preliminary purchase price recognized in our financial statements consisted of the following (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	35,434
	Estimate of expected earn-out consideration(1)			3,840
	Total preliminary purchase price		$	39,274
	-1	The amount of earn-out consideration reflected in the table above reflects the Company’s estimate, as of May 1, 2014, of the amount of the earn-out consideration it will be required to pay pursuant to the NEWP Purchase Agreement. The earn-out consideration will be measured at each reporting date; changes in its fair value will be recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2014, the earn-out consideration of $5.0 million was earned, and will be paid in 2015.
	The Company’s preliminary purchase price allocation is as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	3,852
	Accounts receivable			2,925
	Inventories			2,239
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			439
	Property, plant and equipment			30,625
	Intangible assets (trade name—$5,000, customer relationships—$1,900, and non-compete agreements—$200)			7,100
	Goodwill			8,461
	Accounts payable			(1,641	)
	Accrued liabilities			(442	)
	Customer deposits			(882	)
	Loans			(12,600	)
	Interest rate swaps			(802	)
	Total preliminary purchase price		$	39,274
	Intangible assets consist primarily of customer relationships, trade names and non-compete agreements with former owners. The estimated useful life of each of the trade names is 20 years, 13 years for customer relationships and three years for non-compete agreements.
	The goodwill recorded reflects the value to Rentech of NEWP’s market position, of entry into the residential and commercial heating markets, and of the increases in Rentech’s products offerings, customer bases and geographic markets. The goodwill recorded as part of this acquisition is amortizable for tax purposes.
	The final purchase price and the allocation thereof will not be known until the valuation of intangible assets is completed, which is expected to be during the second quarter of 2015.
	NEWP’s operations are included in the consolidated statements of operations as of May 1, 2014. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded revenue of $32.1 million and net income of $4.3 million related to NEWP. Acquisition related costs for this acquisition were $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, and have been included in the consolidated statements of operations within selling, general and administrative expenses. See “Note 6 — Pro Forma Information” for unaudited pro forma information relating to the NEWP Acquisition.

Pro_Forma_Information

Pro Forma Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]
Pro Forma Information	Note 6 — Pro Forma Information
	The unaudited pro forma information has been prepared as if the NEWP Acquisition, as defined in “Note 3 — NEWP Acquisition”, had taken place on January 1, 2013. The unaudited pro forma information has also been prepared as if the Fulghum Acquisition and the Agrifos Acquisition, as defined in “Note 4 — Fulghum Acquisition” and “Note 5 — Agrifos Acquisition”, had taken place on January 1, 2012. The unaudited pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of the results that the Company would have achieved had the transactions actually taken place on January 1, 2012 or January 1, 2013, and the unaudited pro forma information does not purport to be indicative of future financial operating results.
			For the Year Ended
			December 31, 2014
			As Reported			Pro Forma			Pro Forma
						Adjustments
			(in thousands)
	Revenues		$	472,661		$	14,329		$	486,990
	Net income (loss)		$	(32,504	)	$	1,330		$	(31,174	)
	Net loss attributable to Rentech		$	(35,850	)	$	1,330		$	(34,520	)
	Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech		$	(0.19	)	$	0.01		$	(0.18	)
			For the Calendar Year Ended
			December 31, 2013
			As Reported			Pro Forma			Pro Forma
						Adjustments
			(in thousands)
	Revenues		$	374,349		$	80,399		$	454,748
	Net income (loss)(1)		$	38		$	(24,292	)	$	(24,254	)
	Net loss attributable to Rentech		$	(1,532	)	$	(24,427	)	$	(25,959	)
	Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech		$	0.02		$	(0.10	)	$	(0.08	)
			For the Calendar Year Ended
			December 31, 2012
			As Reported			Pro Forma			Pro Forma
						Adjustments
			(in thousands)
	Revenues		$	261,635		$	226,346		$	487,981
	Net income(1)		$	27,687		$	29,137		$	56,824
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech		$	(14,000	)	$	29,573		$	15,573
	Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech		$	0.1		$	0.13		$	0.23
	-1	As discussed in Note 21 — Income Taxes, during the year ended December 31, 2013, there was a release of a valuation allowance resulting from recording deferred tax liabilities from the Fulghum Acquisition. Since the pro forma information is presented as if the transaction had taken place on January 1, 2012, the release of the valuation allowance is included in the pro forma results for the calendar year ended December 31, 2012 and excluded from the pro forma results for the calendar year ended December 31, 2013.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Note 7 — Discontinued Operations
	On October 28, 2014, the Company sold its alternative energy technologies and certain pieces of equipment at the PDU. The Company received a cash payment of $14.4 million from the buyer, Sunshine Kaidi New Energy Group Co., Ltd. (“Kaidi”), which was in addition to $0.5 million in cash payments previously received. Kaidi also paid an additional $0.4 million to the Company to purchase various equipment located at the Company’s PDU, resulting in $15.3 million of total proceeds to the Company from these transactions, which does not include the possibility of a success payment of up to $16.2 million upon the achievement of agreed milestones related to the development of the sold technologies. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded a gain on sale of $15.3 million. As a result of the agreement to sell the technologies and certain equipment, the Company has classified its consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations for all periods presented in this report to reflect the energy technologies segment as a discontinued operation. In the consolidated statements of cash flows, the cash flows of discontinued operations are not separately classified or aggregated, and are reported in the respective categories with those of continuing operations.
	All discussions and amounts in the consolidated financial statements and related notes, except for cash flows, for all periods presented relate to continuing operations only, unless otherwise noted.
	The following table summarizes the components of assets and liabilities of discontinued operations.
		As of
		December, 31
		2014		2013
		(in thousands)
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	305	$	19
	Other receivables		—		—
	Total current assets	$	305	$	19
	Property held for sale	$	1,677	$	4,647
	Deposits and other assets		—		4
	Total other assets	$	1,677	$	4,651
	Total assets	$	1,982	$	4,670
	Accounts payable	$	144	$	151
	Accrued payroll and benefits		559		356
	Accrued liabilities		1,008		1,496
	Other		—		—
	Total liabilities	$	1,711	$	2,003
	The following table summarizes the results of discontinued operations.
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Revenues	$	322	$	506		$	290
	Operating income (loss)	$	6,053	$	(7,001	)	$	(42,114	)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	7,259	$	(6,606	)	$	(37,376	)

Fair_Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value	Note 8 — Fair Value
	Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date in a principal or most advantageous market. Fair value is a market-based measurement that is determined based on inputs, which refer broadly to assumptions that market participants use in pricing assets or liabilities. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated or generally unobservable inputs. The Company makes certain assumptions it believes that market participants would use in pricing assets or liabilities, including assumptions about risk, and the risks inherent in the inputs to valuation techniques. Credit risk of the Company and its counterparties is incorporated in the valuation of assets and liabilities. The Company believes it uses valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable market-based inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.
	Accounting guidance provides for a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value in three broad levels. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). In some cases, the inputs used to measure fair value might fall in different levels of the fair value hierarchy. All assets and liabilities are required to be classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Assessing the significance of a particular input may require judgment in considering factors specific to the asset or liability, and may affect the valuation of the asset or liability and its placement within the fair value hierarchy. The Company classifies fair value balances based on the fair value hierarchy, defined as follows:
		•		Level 1 — Consists of unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access as of the reporting date.
		•		Level 2 — Consists of inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are directly observable for the asset or liability or indirectly observable through corroboration with observable market data.
		•		Level 3 — Consists of unobservable inputs for assets or liabilities whose fair value is estimated based on internally developed models or methodologies using inputs that are generally less readily observable and supported by little, if any, market activity at the measurement date. Unobservable inputs are developed based on the best available information and subject to cost-benefit constraints.
	Fair values of cash, receivables, deposits, other current assets, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other current liabilities were assumed to approximate carrying value since they are short term and can be settled on demand.
	The following table presents the financial instruments that were accounted for at fair value by level as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
			(in thousands)
	Liabilities
	Earn-out consideration—2014		$	—		$	—		$	1,295
	Earn-out consideration—2013		$	—		$	—		$	1,544
	The following table presents the fair value and carrying value of the Company’s borrowings as of December 31, 2014.
			Fair Value								Carrying
											Value
			(in thousands)
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Liabilities
	RNP Notes		$	310,202		$	—		$	—	$	320,000
	Fulghum debt			—			53,192			—		54,771
	NEWP debt			—			10,968			—		11,265
	GSO Credit Agreement			—			50,000			—		49,142
	GE Credit Agreement			—			15,000			—		15,000
	The following table presents the fair value and carrying value of the Company’s borrowings as of December 31, 2013.
			Fair Value								Carrying
											Value
			(in thousands)
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Liabilities
	RNP Notes		$	318,400		$	—		$	—	$	320,000
	Fulghum debt			—			45,970			—		47,452
	RNHI Revolving Loan			—			50,000			—		50,000
	Earn-out Consideration
	At December 31, 2014, the earn-out consideration reflected in our consolidated financial statements includes $5.0 million relating to the NEWP Acquisition. The earn-out consideration of $5.0 million was fully earned at December 31, 2014.
	At December 31, 2014, the earn-out consideration includes $1.3 million of potential earn-out consideration relating to the Atikokan Project, as defined in “Note 11 — Property, Plant and Equipment”. This consideration is deemed to be a Level 3 financial instrument because the measurement is based on unobservable inputs. The fair value of earn-out consideration was determined based on the Company’s analysis of various scenarios involving the achievement of certain levels of EBITDA, as defined in the asset purchase agreement related to the Atikokan Project, over a ten-year period. The scenarios, which included a weighted probability factor, involved assumptions relating to product profitability and production levels. The earn-out consideration will be measured at each reporting date with changes in its fair value recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. Assuming the minimum required EBITDA level is achieved, an increase or decrease of $1.0 million in EBITDA would result in an increase or decrease in earn-out consideration of $0.1 million. The Company provided a loan to the sellers in the Atikokan Project of $0.9 million, which will be repayable from any earn-out consideration. The collectability of the loan is tied to the amount of earn-out consideration the sellers receive from the Company.
	There was potential additional consideration the Company may have been required to pay under the Agrifos Purchase Agreement. The earn-out consideration related to the Agrifos Acquisition was deemed to be a Level 3 financial instrument because the measurement is based on unobservable inputs. The fair value of earn-out consideration was determined based on the Company’s analysis of various scenarios involving the achievement of certain levels of Adjusted EBITDA, as defined in the Agrifos Purchase Agreement, over a two-year period. The scenarios, which included a weighted probability factor, involved assumptions relating to the market prices of the Company’s products and feedstocks, as well as product profitability and production. The earn-out consideration was measured at each reporting date with changes in its fair value recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the fair value of the liability decreased by $4.9 million. At December 31, 2013, the fair value of the potential earn-out consideration relating to the Agrifos Acquisition was $0. The decrease in fair value was a result of lower than expected profitability in 2013.
	A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of the earn-out consideration is as follows:
			Agrifos			Atikokan			NEWP		Total
			(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2012		$	4,920		$	—		$	—	$	4,920
	Add: Earn-out consideration			—			1,850			—		1,850
	Add: Unrealized (gain) loss			(4,920	)		(202	)		—		(5,122	)
	Add: Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation			—			(104	)		—		(104	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013		$	—		$	1,544		$	—	$	1,544
	Add: Earn-out consideration			—			—			3,840		3,840
	Add: Unrealized (gain) loss			—			(127	)		1,160		1,033
	Add: Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation			—			(122	)		—		(122	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	—		$	1,295		$	5,000	$	6,295
	Debt Valuation
	The RNP Notes, as defined in “Note 14 — Debt”, are deemed to be Level 1 financial instruments because there was an active market for such debt. The fair value of such debt had been determined based on market prices.
	The Fulghum and NEWP debt, as defined in “Note 14 — Debt”, is deemed to be Level 2 financial instruments because the measurement is based on observable market data. The Company’s valuation reflects discounted expected future cash flows, which incorporate yield curves for instruments with similar characteristics, such as credit ratings, weighted average lives and maturity dates.
	The GSO Credit Agreement and GE Credit Agreement, as defined in “Note 14 — Debt”, are deemed to be a Level 2 financial instrument because the measurement is based on observable market data. It is concluded that the carrying value of the GSO Credit Agreement and GE Credit Agreement approximates the fair value of such loans as of December 31, 2014 based on their floating interest rates and the Company’s assessment that the fixed-rate margins are still at market.
	The RNHI Revolving Loan, as defined in “Note 14 — Debt”, is deemed to be a Level 2 financial instrument because the measurement is based on observable market data. It is concluded that the carrying value of the RNHI Revolving Loan approximates the fair value of such loan as of December 31, 2013 because of the floating nature of the interest rate and the fact that the Company’s credit worthiness has not changed since the loan was issued. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company paid off the outstanding balance under RNHI Revolving Loan.
	The levels within the fair value hierarchy at which the Company’s financial instruments have been evaluated have not changed for any of the Company’s financial instruments during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Derivative_Instruments

Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments	Note 9 — Derivative Instruments
	Forward Natural Gas Contracts
	RNP uses commodity-based derivatives to minimize its exposure to the fluctuations in natural gas prices. RNP recognizes the unrealized gains or losses related to the commodity-based derivative instruments in its consolidated financial statements. RNP does not have any master netting agreements or collateral relating to these derivatives.
	Our East Dubuque Facility enters into forward natural gas purchase contracts to reduce its exposure to the fluctuations in natural gas prices. The forward natural gas contracts are deemed to be Level 2 financial instruments because the measurement is based on observable market data. The fair value of such contracts had been determined based on market prices. Gain or loss associated with forward natural gas contracts is recorded in cost of sales on the consolidated statements of operations. The amount of unrealized loss recorded was $4.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	Interest Rate Swaps
	NEWP entered into three interest rate swaps in notional amounts that cover the borrowings under its two industrial revenue bonds and a real estate mortgage loan. Through the three interest rate swaps, NEWP is essentially fixing the variable interest rate to be paid on its borrowings.
	Under the interest rate swaps, NEWP pays interest at a fixed rate of 5.29% on the outstanding balance of one of the industrial revenue bonds, 5.05% on the outstanding balance of the other industrial revenue bond and 7.95% on the outstanding balance of the real estate mortgage loan. NEWP receives interest at the variable interest rates specified in the various swap agreements.
	The interest rate swaps are designated as derivatives for accounting purposes. The interest rate swaps are deemed to be Level 2 financial instruments because the measurements are based on observable market data. The Company used a standard swap contract valuation method to value its interest rate derivatives, and the inputs it uses for present value discounting included forward one-month LIBOR rates, risk-free interest rates and an estimate of credit risk. The fair value of the interest rate swaps at December 31, 2014 represents the unrealized loss of $0.7 million. Any adjustments to the fair value of the interest rate swaps from the date of the NEWP Acquisition will be recorded on the consolidated statements of operations. For the eight months ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded an unrealized gain of $0.2 million.
	In 2012, RNLLC entered into two forward starting interest rate swaps in notional amounts which covered a portion of its outstanding borrowings. The interest rate swaps were deemed to be Level 2 financial instruments because the measurements were based on observable market data. RNP used a standard swap contract valuation method to value its interest rate derivatives, and the inputs it uses for present value discounting included forward one-month and three-month LIBOR rates, risk-free interest rates and an estimate of credit risk. The change in fair value was recorded in other expense, net on the consolidated statement of operations. The realized loss represents the cash payments required under the interest rate swaps.
	Net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps:
		For the Years Ended
		December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Realized loss	$	—	$	(24	)	$	(22	)
	Unrealized gain (loss)		172		17			(929	)
	Total net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	$	172	$	(7	)	$	(951	)
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, RNP paid $0.9 million to terminate the RNLLC interest rate swaps.
	The forward natural gas contracts are recorded in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The interest rate swaps are recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
		Current
		Liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Forward natural gas contracts:
	Gross amounts recognized	$	3,955
	Gross amounts offset in consolidated balance sheets		—
	Net amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets	$	3,955
		Current
		Liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Interest rate swaps:
	Gross amounts recognized	$	653
	Gross amounts offset in consolidated balance sheets		—
	Net amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets	$	653
	The following table presents the financial instruments that were accounted for at fair value by level as of December 31, 2014:
		Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
		(in thousands)
	Liabilities
	Forward gas contracts	$	—	$	3,955		$	—
	Interest rate swaps		—		653			—

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Note 10 — Inventories
	Inventories consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014		2013
		(in thousands)
	Finished goods	$	26,669	$	27,638
	Raw materials		11,226		7,448
	Other		190		290
	Total inventory	$	38,085	$	35,376
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company wrote down the value of the Pasadena Facility’s ammonium sulfate inventory by $6.0 million to market value. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company wrote down the value of the Pasadena Facility’s ammonium sulfate, sulfur and sulfuric acid inventory by $12.4 million to market value. The various write-downs were reflected in cost of goods sold for the applicable periods.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Note 11 — Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	Land and land improvements	$	28,042		$	26,149
	Buildings and building improvements		45,516			33,096
	Machinery and equipment		406,489			334,645
	Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		1,610			1,123
	Computer equipment and computer software		8,748			7,977
	Vehicles		5,893			4,624
	Leasehold improvements		2,405			2,348
	Other		1,453			210
			500,156			410,172
	Less: Accumulated depreciation		(107,705	)		(75,518	)
	Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	392,451		$	334,654
	Construction in progress consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	East Dubuque Facility		15,010			2,195
	Pasadena Facility		32,747			31,335
	Fulghum Fibres		7,197			273
	Atikokan Project		36,931			8,458
	Wawa Project		65,232			11,809
	Construction under QS Construction Facility		21,712			5,198
	Other		594			868
	Total construction in progress	$	179,423		$	60,136
	The construction in progress balance at December 31, 2014 includes $6.3 million of capitalized interest cost and $0.8 million at December 31, 2013.
	The construction in progress amount at the Pasadena Facility consists primarily of the power generation project.
	In 2013, the Company acquired an idled oriented strand board processing mill in Wawa, Ontario, Canada. The Company is in the process of converting the mill to a wood pellet facility (the Wawa Facility”) designed to produce 450,000 metric tons of wood pellets annually (the “Wawa Project”). The Wawa Facility is nearing completion of construction. The Company expects the facility to begin startup and commissioning in the second quarter of 2015 and to operate at full capacity within one year from the start of commissioning. Also, in 2013, the Company acquired a former particle board processing mill in Atikokan, Ontario, Canada. The Company is in the process of converting the mill to a wood pellet facility (the “Atikokan Facility”) and expects it to produce 110,000 metric tons of wood pellets annually (the “Atikokan Project”). In the first quarter of 2015, the Atikokan Facility began the commissioning phase and began producing and selling wood pellets. The Company expects the Atikokan Facility to be operating at full capacity in six to 12 months.
	The Company expects that the new term loan under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement, together with cash on hand, will be sufficient to fund the Atikokan and Wawa Projects until they have been commissioned and later begin to generate positive cash flow.
	Pursuant to the Port Agreement, as defined in “Note 14 — Debt”, Quebec Stevedoring Company Limited (“Quebec Stevedoring”) is required to build handling equipment and 75,000 metric tons of wood pellet storage exclusively for the Company’s use at the Port of Quebec, with the same amount becoming a financing obligation for the Company.

Goodwill

Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	Note 12 — Goodwill
	A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of goodwill is as follows:
		Pasadena			Fulghum		NEWP		Total
		(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	56,592		$	—	$	—	$	56,592
	Add: Acquisition		—			29,932		—		29,932
	Add: Increase		639			—		—		639
	Less: Impairment		(30,029	)		—		—		(30,029	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	27,202		$	29,932	$	—	$	57,134
	Add: Acquisition		—			—		8,461		8,461
	Less: Impairment		(27,202	)		—		—		(27,202	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	—		$	29,932	$	8,461	$	38,393
	The goodwill resulting from the Agrifos Acquisition and the NEWP Acquisition is amortizable for tax purposes, while the goodwill from the Fulghum Acquisition is not amortizable for tax purposes.

Impairments

Impairments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Impairments	Note 13 — Impairments
	The Company tests goodwill assets for impairment annually, or more often if an event or circumstances indicate an impairment may have occurred. Between annual goodwill impairment tests, the Company qualitatively assesses whether or not it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test for each reporting unit. If based on the results of its qualitative assessment, it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, then the two-step goodwill impairment test is not required.
	Year Ended December 31, 2014
	During the second quarter of 2014, the Company incurred $2.8 million write-down of ammonium sulfate inventory to market value primarily due to lower market prices of ammonium sulfate. This expense is reflected in product cost of sales. Management considered this inventory impairment, negative gross margin and negative EBITDA, in the second quarter of 2014, as well as revised cash flow projections developed during the second quarter of 2014, taken together as indicators that a potential impairment of the goodwill related to the Pasadena Facility may have occurred. Factors that affect cash flow include, but are not limited to: product prices; product sales volumes; feedstock prices, labor, maintenance, and other operating costs; required capital expenditures; and plant productivity.
	Cash flow projections decreased primarily because of a decline in forecasted product margins. The reduction of prices in the forecast was the result of an evaluation of many factors, including recent deterioration in reported margins. A global decline in nitrogen prices, along with higher exports of ammonium sulfate from China, put downward pressure on ammonium sulfate prices. The additional supplies from China originate from new plants that produce ammonium sulfate as a by-product of manufacturing caprolactam. Current prices for ammonia and sulfur, key inputs for ammonium sulfate, had increased significantly during the second quarter. Global ammonia supplies were tight, supported by production issues in Egypt, Algeria, Trinidad and Qatar, as well as political unrest in Libya and Ukraine.
	The analysis of the potential impairment of goodwill is a two-step process. Step one of the impairment test consists of comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with the aggregate carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, step two must be performed to determine the amount, if any, of the goodwill impairment. Step one of the goodwill impairment test involves a high degree of judgment and consists of a comparison of the fair value of a reporting unit with its book value. The fair value of the Pasadena reporting unit was based upon various assumptions and was based primarily on the discounted cash flows that the business could be expected to generate in the future (the “Income Approach”). The Income Approach valuation method required the Company to make projections of revenue and costs over a multi-year period. Additionally, the Company made an estimate of a weighted average cost of capital that a market participant would use as a discount rate. The Company also considered other valuation methods including the replacement cost and market approach. Based upon its analysis of the fair value of the Pasadena reporting unit, the Company believed it was probable that the Pasadena reporting unit had a carrying value in excess of its fair value at June 30, 2014. The inputs utilized in the analyses were classified as Level 3 inputs within the fair value hierarchy as defined in accounting guidance.
	Step two of the goodwill impairment test consists of comparing the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill against the carrying value of the goodwill. The estimated difference between the fair value of the entire reporting unit as determined in step one and the net fair value of all identifiable assets and liabilities represents the implied fair value of goodwill. The valuation of assets and liabilities in step two is performed only for purposes of assessing goodwill for impairment and the Company did not adjust the net book value of the assets and liabilities on its consolidated balance sheets other than goodwill as a result of this process. Completion of step two of the goodwill impairment test indicated no remaining residual value of goodwill and resulted in the Company recording an impairment charge of $27.2 million during the quarter ended June 30, 2014. The goodwill impairment was primarily the result of a decrease in the implied fair value of the Pasadena reporting unit. A deterioration in projected cash flows and an increase in the rate used to discount such cash flows contributed to this decrease. In addition, the implied residual value of goodwill decreased because of an increase in the amount of invested capital at the Pasadena Facility, which primarily was the result of capital expenditures for the power generation project and expenditures to replace the sulfuric acid converter. The Company also considered the realizability of long-lived assets and intangible assets at June 30, 2014 and noted that no impairment of such assets was required.
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	During the year, the Company incurred $12.4 million write-down of ammonium sulfate, sulfur and sulfuric acid inventory to market value primarily due to lower market prices of ammonium sulfate. This expense is reflected in product cost of sales.
	Ammonium sulfate is the primary product of the Pasadena Facility. Results for the year ended December 31, 2013 and our projections of future cash flow from the production and sale of this product are worse than the results originally projected in late 2012, when the Company acquired Agrifos. The expected results and cash flows as of 2012 were utilized to allocate the purchase price of the Agrifos Acquisition. The primary cause of the reduction in the estimated fair value of the Pasadena reporting unit is the decline in the cash flow expected to be generated from the sale of ammonium sulfate, compared to the expectations at the time of the acquisition. A major cause of the lower expected cash flows is a decline in the level of prices, and expected prices, for nitrogen fertilizer caused by, among other things, lower corn prices, poor weather conditions for fertilizer application throughout the United States in 2013 and increased supply of urea from China.
	Factors that affect cash flows include, but are not limited to, product prices; product transportation costs; product sales volumes; feedstock prices and availability; labor, maintenance, and other operating costs; required capital expenditures, and plant productivity. The Pasadena Facility generated negative EBITDA during the year ended December 31, 2013. Current and projected prices for the products and inputs at that time were below the levels at the time of the acquisition, yielding expectations for lower variable dollar margins per ton of product, even though percentage margins are expected to be consistent with those at the time of the acquisition because the prices of ammonium sulfate and its major raw materials have dropped by similar percentages. Lower dollar variable margins provide fewer dollars per ton sold to cover the fixed costs of the facility, resulting in reduced expectations of cash generated by the facility in a lower-price environment. In addition, the Pasadena Facility’s production was lower than expected due to plant outages, and costs had been higher than expected due to higher maintenance expense.
	Based upon its analysis of the value of the Pasadena reporting unit using the Income Approach, the Company recorded an estimated impairment to goodwill of $30.0 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2013. During the quarter ended December 31, 2013, the Company performed a “step 2” analysis of goodwill and determined no adjustment to the initial goodwill impairment charge was necessary. There are significant assumptions involved in determining a goodwill impairment charge, which includes discount rates, terminal growth rates, future prices of end products and raw materials, terminal values and production volumes. The various valuation methods used (income approach, replacement cost, market approach) are also weighted in determining fair market value. Changes to any of these assumptions could increase or decrease the fair value of the Pasadena reporting unit. At December 31, 2013 the fair value of the Pasadena reporting unit was essentially equal to its carrying value and any adverse change to the critical assumptions used to measure discounted cash flows could result in a diminution in fair value that may result in additional goodwill impairment charges.
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	The Company recorded intangibles related to the acquisition of two subsidiaries in its energy technology segment. The Company expected that these assets would be used in various development projects with unrelated parties. During the year 2012 the Company determined, based upon the status of negotiations with third parties to fund development of projects using the technologies, that the likelihood of future cash flows were significantly diminished. The Company concluded, based on the high degree of uncertainty and low probability of completion of these projects, that the intangibles were impaired. As a result, the Company impaired the net book value of the intangibles in the amounts of $16.0 million, which is reflected in discontinued operations.

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Note 14 — Debt
	The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are summarized below. Debt premium, discount and issuance expenses incurred in connection with financing are deferred and amortized on a straight line basis.
	RNP Notes Offering
	On April 12, 2013, RNP and Rentech Nitrogen Finance Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of RNP (“Finance Corporation” and collectively with RNP, the “Issuers”), issued $320.0 million of 6.5% second lien senior secured notes due 2021 (the “RNP Notes”) to qualified institutional buyers and non-United States persons in a private offering exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The RNP Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.5% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on April 15 and October 15 of each year. The RNP Notes will mature on April 15, 2021, unless repurchased or redeemed earlier in accordance with their terms. RNP used part of the net proceeds from the offering to repay in full and terminate a credit agreement entered into in October 2012 (“the 2012 RNP Credit Agreement”) and related interest rate swaps, and intends to use the remaining proceeds to pay for expenditures related to its expansion projects and for general partnership purposes.
	The RNP Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by each of RNP’s existing domestic subsidiaries, other than Finance Corporation. In addition, the RNP Notes and the guarantees thereof are collateralized by a second priority lien on substantially all of RNP’s and the guarantors’ assets, subject to permitted liens.
	The Issuers may redeem some or all of the RNP Notes at any time prior to April 15, 2016 at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the RNP Notes redeemed, plus a “make whole” premium, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. At any time prior to April 15, 2016, RNP may also, on any one or more occasions, redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the RNP Notes issued with the net proceeds of certain equity offerings at 106.5% of the principal amount of the RNP Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. On or after April 15, 2016, RNP may redeem some or all of the RNP Notes at a premium that will decrease over time, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.
	RNP Credit Agreement
	On April 12, 2013, RNP and Finance Corporation (collectively the “Borrowers”) entered into a new credit agreement (the “RNP Credit Agreement”) with various lenders. The RNP Credit Agreement consisted of a $35.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “RNP Credit Facility”). As of December 31, 2013, there were no outstanding borrowings under the RNP Credit Agreement. The RNP Credit Agreement was terminated on July 22, 2014 and replaced with the GE Credit Agreement (as defined below).
	QS Construction Facility
	In connection with the Drax Contract (as defined in Note 15 — Commitments and Contingencies), on April 30, 2013, the Company and Quebec Stevedoring entered into a Master Services Agreement (the “Port Agreement”) pursuant to which Quebec Stevedoring is required to provide stevedoring, terminalling and warehousing services to the Company at the Port of Quebec. The Port Agreement is designed to support the term and volume commitments of the Drax Contract as well as future wood pellet exports through the Port of Quebec. Pursuant to the Port Agreement, Quebec Stevedoring is required to build handling equipment and 75,000 metric tons of wood pellet storage exclusively for the Company’s use at the port, with the same amount becoming a financing obligation for the Company (the “QS Construction Facility”). The fifteen-year note for $20.0 million bears interest at a rate of 10% per year.
	Fulghum Debt
	As of December 31, 2014, Fulghum’s outstanding debt consists primarily of term loans with various financial institutions with each term loan collateralized by specific property and equipment. The term loans have maturity dates ranging from 2015 through 2028. Amount of debt outstanding with financial institutions located in the United States was $34.7million and $18.5 million with financial institutions located in South America. The weighted average interest rate on the debt was 6.3%. Cash can be distributed to Rentech from Fulghum to the extent that such distributions are permitted in Fulghum’s debt agreements.
	RNHI Revolving Loan
	On September 23, 2013, RNHI obtained a $100.0 million revolving loan facility (“RNHI Revolving Loan”) by entering into a credit agreement (the “RNHI Credit Agreement”) among RNHI, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent and each other lender from time to time party thereto. On September 24, 2013, the Company borrowed $50.0 million under the facility. On April 9, 2014, the Company paid off the outstanding balance under the facility with proceeds from the GSO Credit Agreement and terminated the RNHI Credit Agreement.
	BMO Credit Agreement
	On November 25, 2013, the Company entered into a credit agreement with Bank of Montreal (the “BMO Credit Agreement”). The BMO Credit Agreement originally consisted of a $3.0 million revolving credit facility, which could only be utilized as letters of credit.
	On April 8, 2014, the BMO Credit Agreement was amended to increase the amount available under the revolving credit facility from $3.0 million to $10.0 million.
	Borrowings bear a letter of credit fee of 3.75% per annum on the daily average face amount of the letters of credits outstanding during the preceding calendar quarter. The Company also is required to pay a commitment fee on the average daily undrawn portion of the credit facility at a rate equal to 0.75% per annum. This commitment fee is payable quarterly in arrears on the last day of each calendar quarter and on the termination date. The BMO Credit Agreement will terminate on November 25, 2015. At December 31, 2014, letters of credit had been issued, but not drawn upon, totaling $7.1 million, and $1.1 million had been issued at December 31, 2013.
	GSO Credit Agreement
	On April 9, 2014, RNHI (the “Borrower”), entered into a Term Loan Credit Agreement (the “GSO Credit Agreement”) among the Borrower, certain funds managed by or affiliated with GSO Capital Partners LP (“GSO Capital”), as lenders, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent and each lender from time to time party thereto. The Company used the borrowings from the facility to fund the acquisition and development of its wood fibre business, which consists of its wood chipping and wood pellet businesses, and for general corporate purposes
	The facility originally consisted of a $50.0 million term loan, with a five-year maturity. The obligations of the Borrower under the facility are unconditionally guaranteed by the Company and are secured by common units of RNP owned by the Borrower. The term loan facility was subject to a 2.00% original issue discount.
	Borrowings under the facility bear interest at a rate equal to the greater of (i) LIBOR plus 7.00% per annum and (ii) 8.00% per annum. In the event the Company prepays the facility prior to its first anniversary from funds other than those generated through certain sales of assets and under certain conditions, it will be required to pay a prepayment fee equal to 1.00% of the amount of the prepayment.
	On February 12, 2015, the Company amended and restated the GSO Credit Agreement (the “A&R GSO Credit Agreement”), which increased borrowings by $25.0 million and added an additional $38.0 million available for borrowing. For information on the A&R GSO Credit Agreement, refer to “Note 25 — Subsequent Events”.
	NEWP Debt
	As of December 31, 2014, NEWP’s outstanding debt of $10.9 million had a weighted average interest rate of 5.0%. The debt consists primarily of term loans, bonds and a revolving credit facility with various financial institutions, and such debt is collateralized by the assets of NEWP. The debt has maturity dates ranging from 2016 through 2021. Cash can be distributed to Rentech from NEWP to the extent that such distributions are permitted in NEWP’s debt agreements.
	On January 23, 2015, NEWP entered into an additional term loan with T.D. Bank, N.A. for $8.0 million that is also secured by the assets of NEWP. NEWP used the proceeds of the loan to acquire the assets of Allegheny Pellet Corporation (“Allegheny”) and for general corporate purposes. See “Note 25 — Subsequent Events”.
	GE Credit Agreement
	On July 22, 2014, RNP replaced the RNP Credit Agreement by entering into a new credit agreement (the “GE Credit Agreement”) by and among RNP and Finance Corporation as borrowers (the “GE Borrowers”), certain subsidiaries of RNP, as guarantors, General Electric Capital Corporation, for itself as agent for the lenders party thereto, the other financial institutions party thereto, and GE Capital Markets, Inc., as sole lead arranger and bookrunner.
	The GE Credit Agreement consists of a $50.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “GE Credit Facility”) with a $10.0 million letter of credit sublimit. RNP expects that the GE Credit Agreement will be used to fund growth projects, working capital needs, letters of credit and for other general partnership purposes.
	Borrowings under the GE Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to an applicable margin plus, at the GE Borrowers’ option, either (a) in the case of base rate borrowings, a rate equal to the highest of (1) the prime rate, (2) the federal funds rate plus 0.5% or (3) LIBOR for an interest period of one month plus 1.00% or (b) in the case of LIBOR borrowings, the offered rate per annum for deposits of dollars for the applicable interest period on the day that is two business days prior to the first day of such interest period. The applicable margin for borrowings under the GE Credit Agreement is 2.25% with respect to base rate borrowings and 3.25% with respect to LIBOR borrowings.
	The GE Borrowers are required to pay a fee to the lenders under the GE Credit Agreement on the average undrawn available portion of the GE Credit Facility at a rate equal to 0.50% per annum. If letters of credit are issued, the GE Borrowers will also pay a fee to the lenders under the GE Credit Agreement at a rate equal to the product of the average daily undrawn face amount of all letters of credit issued, guaranteed or supported by risk participation agreements multiplied by a per annum rate equal to the applicable margin with respect to LIBOR borrowings. The GE Borrowers are also required to pay customary letter of credit fees on issued letters of credit. In the event the GE Borrowers reduce or terminate the commitments under the GE Credit Facility on or prior to the 18-month anniversary of the closing date, the GE Borrowers shall pay a prepayment fee equal to 1.0% of the amount of the commitment reduction.
	The GE Credit Agreement terminates on July 22, 2019. The GE Borrowers may voluntarily prepay their utilization and/or permanently cancel all or part of the available commitments under the GE Credit Agreement in minimum increments of $5.0 million (subject to the prepayment fee described above). Amounts repaid may be reborrowed. Borrowings under the GE Credit Agreement will be subject to mandatory prepayment under certain circumstances, with customary exceptions, from the proceeds of permitted dispositions of assets and from certain insurance and condemnation proceeds.
	RNLLC, RNPLLC and Rentech Nitrogen Pasadena Holdings, LLC guarantee the GE Credit Agreement. The obligations under the GE Credit Agreement and the subsidiary guarantees thereof are secured by the same collateral securing the RNP Notes, which includes substantially all the assets of RNP and its subsidiaries. After the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default, proceeds of any collection, sale, foreclosure or other realization upon any collateral will be applied to repay obligations under the GE Credit Agreement and the subsidiary guarantees thereof to the extent secured by the collateral before any such proceeds are applied to repay obligations under the RNP Notes.
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company had $15.0 million outstanding borrowings under the GE Credit Agreement. At December 31, 2014, a letter of credit had been issued, but not drawn upon, in the amount of $1.8 million.
	Total Debt
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the RNP Notes, Fulghum debt, GSO Credit Agreement, NEWP debt, RNP Credit Agreement, GE Credit Agreement and BMO Credit Agreement. Total debt consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	RNP Notes	$	320,000		$	320,000
	QS Construction Facility		18,679			4,527
	Fulghum debt		53,179			45,290
	RNHI Revolving Loan		—			50,000
	GSO Credit Agreement		50,000			—
	NEWP debt		10,913			—
	GE Credit Agreement		15,000			—
	Total debt	$	467,771		$	419,817
	Plus: Unamortized net premium		1,085			2,162
	Less: Current portion		(17,260	)		(9,270	)
	Less: Current portion unamortized premium		(524	)		(646	)
	Long-term debt	$	451,072		$	412,063
	Future maturities of total debt are as follows (in thousands):
	For the Years Ending December 31
	2015	$	17,260
	2016		9,634
	2017		8,123
	2018		5,710
	2019		70,369
	Thereafter		356,675
		$	467,771
	The termination of the RNP Credit Agreement resulted in a loss on debt extinguishment of $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The payoff of the RNHI Revolving Loan resulted in a loss on debt extinguishment of $0.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. These two transactions resulted in a total loss on debt extinguishment of $1.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The payoff of the 2012 RNP Credit Agreement resulted in a loss on debt extinguishment, for the year ended December 31, 2013, of $6.0 million. The entry into the 2012 RNP Credit Agreement and the payoff of a previous credit agreement resulted in a loss on debt extinguishment of $2.1 million. As a result of redeeming convertible notes prior to maturity, the unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs were written off which resulted in a loss on debt extinguishment of $2.7 million. These two transactions resulted in a total loss on debt extinguishment of $4.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	Cash can be distributed to us from our subsidiaries to the extent that such distribution would not cause the subsidiary to be in violation of any financial covenants in its debt arrangements, and as permitted in our debt documents.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Note 15 — Commitments and Contingencies
	Natural Gas Forward Purchase Contracts
	The Company’s policy and practice are to enter into fixed-price forward purchase contracts for natural gas in conjunction with contracted nitrogen fertilizer product sales in order to substantially fix gross margin on those product sales contracts. The Company may also enter into a limited amount of additional fixed-price forward purchase contracts for natural gas in order to reduce monthly and seasonal gas price volatility. The Company occasionally enters into index-price contracts for the purchase of natural gas. The Company has entered into multiple natural gas forward purchase contracts for various delivery dates through June 30, 2015. Commitments for natural gas purchases consist of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014		2013
		(in thousands, except weighted average rate)
	MMBtus under fixed-price contracts		3,188		2,071
	MMBtus under index-price contracts		540		81
	Total MMBtus under contracts		3,728		2,152
	Commitments to purchase natural gas	$	15,568	$	8,571
	Weighted average rate per MMBtu based on the fixed rates and the indexes applicable to each contract	$	4.18	$	3.98
	As of December 31, 2014, deposits against these forward gas contracts were $0.9 million. During January and February 2015, the Company entered into additional fixed-quantity forward purchase contracts at fixed and indexed prices for various delivery dates through December 31, 2015. The total MMBtus associated with these additional forward purchase contracts are 2.7 million and the total amount of the purchase commitments is $7.7 million, resulting in a weighted average rate per MMBtu of $2.88 in these new commitments. The Company is required to make additional prepayments under these forward purchase contracts in the event that market prices fall below the purchase prices in the contracts.
	Operating Leases
	The Company has various operating leases of real and personal property which expire through September 2029. Total lease expense, including month-to-month rent, common area maintenance charges and other rent related fees, for the years ended December 31, 2014 was $6.4 million and $2.0 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.
	Future minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	For the Years Ending December 31,
	2015	$	7,318
	2016		6,642
	2017		4,350
	2018		3,380
	2019 and thereafter		16,893
		$	38,583
	Contractual Obligations
	Wood Pellets
	On May 1, 2013, Rentech’s subsidiary that owns the Wawa Facility entered into a ten-year take-or-pay contract (the “Drax Contract”) with Drax Power Limited (“Drax”). Under the Drax Contract, such subsidiary is required to sell to Drax the first 400,000 metric tonnes of wood pellets per year produced from the Wawa Facility, with the first delivery under the contract scheduled for the end of year 2014. In 2014, we did not deliver wood pellets as required under the Drax Contract, the Rentech subsidiary that owns the Wawa Facility is required to pay Drax an amount equal to the positive difference, if any, between the contract price for the wood pellets and the price of any wood pellets Drax purchases in replacement. Rentech has guaranteed this obligation in an amount not to exceed $20.0 million. For 2014, the Company did not meet the contracted delivery schedule and, therefore, it was required to pay $0.2 million to Drax, which was recorded in cost of sales as of December 31, 2014.
	Rentech’s subsidiary that owns the Atikokan Facility entered into a ten-year take-or-pay contract (the “OPG Contract”) with Ontario Power Generation (“OPG”) under which such subsidiary is required to deliver 45,000 metric tonnes of wood pellets annually starting in 2014, prorated in the first year based on the successful commissioning date of OPG’s Atikokan power station. OPG has the option to increase required delivery of wood pellets from the Atikokan Facility to up to 90,000 metric tonnes annually.
	A Rentech subsidiary has contracted with Canadian National Railway Company (the “Canadian National Contract”) for all rail transportation of wood pellets from the Atikokan Facility and the Wawa Facility to the Port of Quebec. The Atikokan Facility is located 1,300 track miles and the Wawa Facility is located 1,100 track miles from the Port of Quebec.
	Under the Canadian National Contract, such subsidiary has committed to transport a minimum of 1,500 rail carloads during the months of January 2014 through December 2014, and 3,600 rail carloads annually thereafter for the duration of the long-term contract. Delivery shortfalls would result in a $1,000 per rail car penalty. For 2014, the Company did not meet the minimum requirements and, therefore, it is required to pay a negotiated amount of $0.5 million to Canadian National Railway Company, which was recorded in cost of sales in 2014.
	Litigation
	The Company is party to litigation from time to time in the normal course of business. The Company accrues liabilities related to litigation only when it concludes that it is probable that it will incur costs related to such litigation, and can reasonably estimate the amount of such costs. In cases where the Company determines that it is not probable, but reasonably possible that it has a material obligation, it discloses such obligations and the possible loss or range of loss, if such estimate can be made. The outcome of the Company’s current material litigation matters are not estimable or probable. The Company maintains insurance to cover certain actions and believes that resolution of its current litigation matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements.
	Regulation
	The Company’s business is subject to extensive and frequently changing federal, state and local, environmental, health and safety regulations governing a wide range of matters, including the emission of air pollutants, the release of hazardous substances into the environment, the treatment and discharge of waste water and the storage, handling, use and transportation of the Company’s fertilizer products, raw materials, and other substances that are part of our operations. These laws include the Clean Air Act (the “CAA”), the federal Water Pollution Control Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, the Toxic Substances Control Act, and various other federal, state and local laws and regulations. The laws and regulations to which the Company is subject are complex, change frequently and have tended to become more stringent over time. The ultimate impact on the Company’s business of complying with existing laws and regulations is not always clearly known or determinable due in part to the fact that the Company’s operations may change over time and certain implementing regulations for laws, such as the CAA, have not yet been finalized, are under governmental or judicial review or are being revised. These laws and regulations could result in increased capital, operating and compliance costs.
	The Company entered into a settlement agreement with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency in August 2013 requiring it to connect a device at the East Dubuque Facility to an ammonia safety flare by December 1, 2015. The Company estimates the cost of the project required by the settlement agreement as being $0.4 million.
	The Company is negotiating a settlement agreement with Region 6 of the Environmental Protection Agency relating to an ammonia release that occurred at the Pasadena Facility on April 20, 2014. The Company estimates the amount of the penalty required by the settlement agreement to be approximately $0.1 million.
	Gain and Loss Contingencies
	As indicated in “Note 7 — Discontinued Operations”, the Company sold most of its alternative energy business in 2014, which was based in Colorado. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company paid a 2013 county property tax assessment in Colorado in the amount of $1.3 million, which was accrued in 2013. However, the Company did not agree with the assessed property value and appealed to the Board of Assessment Appeals State of Colorado (“Board of Assessment”). In 2014, the Company won its appeal and the Company is owed a refund of $1.2 million. Adams County has appealed to the Colorado Court of Appeals. The Company has not recorded the receivable related to the overpayment as it represents a gain contingency.
	For 2014, the Company has accrued the Colorado property taxes based on the property value approved by the Board of Assessment. However, the county has assessed the Company a higher property value than it did in 2013, which would require a property tax payment by the Company of $1.7 million. This amount is $1.6 million in excess of what the Company accrued. Because it won its appeal for 2013, the Company believes that the assessment of $1.7 million is not probable and has not reflected an accrual for the excess amount of $1.6 million.
	In 2013, the Company sold its property located in Natchez, Mississippi (“Natchez”) for $8.6 million. The Company continues to own an approximately 18 mile-long natural gas pipeline that runs from Tensas Parish, Louisiana to the site in Natchez, Mississippi. On February 6, 2015, the Company received an order from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to abandon the natural gas pipeline. The Company expects the abandonment costs to be $0.8 million. These costs were recorded in discontinued operations during the year ended December 31, 2014, but will be incurred to complete the abandonment process in 2015. As part of the Natchez property sale, the Company is entitled to reimbursement from the buyer of Natchez for its costs relating to the pipeline abandonment. The Company has not recorded the receivable related to the reimbursement of abandonment costs as it represents a gain contingency.
	A fire at our mill in Maine during the first quarter of 2014 disrupted operations, causing lower processing volumes and higher than typical processing costs at the facility during the first half of 2014. The mill’s customer has indicated it incurred unspecified losses related to the production disruptions caused by the fire. The Company is unable at this time to estimate any potential liability from this contingency.

Preferred_Stock

Preferred Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Preferred Stock	Note 16 — Preferred Stock
	On April 9, 2014, the Company entered into a Subscription Agreement (the “Subscription Agreement”) with funds managed by or affiliated with GSO Capital (the “Series E Purchasers”), pursuant to which the Company sold 100,000 shares of its Series E Convertible Preferred Stock (the “2014 Preferred Stock” or “Series E Preferred Stock”) to the Series E Purchasers. The shares have an aggregate original issue price of $100.0 million and were purchased for an aggregate purchase price of $98.0 million (reflecting an issuance discount of 2%). Dividends on the 2014 Preferred Stock accrue and are cumulative, whether or not declared by the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), at the rate of 4.5% per annum on the sum of the original issue price plus all unpaid accrued and accumulated dividends thereon. The 2014 Preferred Stock is convertible into up to 45,045,045 shares of Rentech’s common stock (“Common Stock”) at a conversion price of $2.22 per share, subject to adjustment. In certain circumstances, the 2014 Preferred Stock is redeemable by the Series E Purchasers for a price equal to the original issue price plus all accrued and unpaid dividends (including dividends accruing from the last dividend payment date).
	On April 9, 2014, a newly formed wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, DSHC, LLC (“DSHC”), and each of the Series E Purchasers entered into a Put Option Agreement (the “Put Option Agreements”). Under the Put Option Agreements, each Series E Purchaser has the right to cause DSHC to purchase any of the 2014 Preferred Stock for the original issue price plus all accrued and unpaid dividends (including dividends accruing from the last dividend payment date) upon certain put trigger events, including the failure of the Company to redeem the 2014 Preferred Stock when required. All obligations of DSHC under the Put Option Agreements are secured by 5,524,862 common units of RNP owned by DSHC. DSHC is a special purpose entity referred to as a bankruptcy-remote entity whose operations are limited. DSHC is a separate and distinct legal entity from Rentech and its assets are not available to Rentech’s creditors.
	The 2014 Preferred Stock is accounted for as mezzanine equity in the consolidated balance sheets. However, dividends are recorded in the consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity and consist of the 4.5% dividend plus the amortization of issuance costs and accretion of discount. Dividends are paid on the first business day of June and December of each year.
	Mezzanine equity at December 31, 2014 consisted of the following (in thousands):
	Original issue price of 2014 Preferred Stock	$	100,000
	Less: Issuance costs		(3,144	)
	Less: Unamortized discount		(1,796	)
	Total mezzanine equity	$	95,060
	On February 12, 2015, the Company entered into an amendment to the Subscription Agreement (the “Subscription Amendment”) and DSHC entered into Amended and Restated Put Option Agreements with each of the Series E Purchasers (the “A&R Put Option Agreements”). For information on the Subscription Amendment and the A&R Put Option Agreements, refer to “Note 25 — Subsequent Events”.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Note 17 — Stockholders’ Equity
	Shelf Registration Statement
	On July 9, 2013, the Company filed a shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which allows it from time to time, in one or more offerings, to offer and sell up to $200.0 million in aggregate initial offering price of debt securities, common stock, preferred stock, depositary shares, warrants, rights to purchase shares of common stock and/or any of the other registered securities or units of any of the other registered securities.
	Special Cash Distribution
	On December 27, 2012, the Company paid a special one-time distribution of $0.19 per common share to its shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 20, 2012 (the “Special Distribution”). In connection with the Special Distribution and in accordance with and pursuant to the Company’s various equity plans, the Company equitably adjusted its outstanding stock options, restricted stock units and performance stock units, as follows: (i) the exercise price of each outstanding stock option and the number of shares subject to each option were adjusted to reflect the impact of the Special Distribution, while preserving the aggregate spread of the options (i.e., the difference between the aggregate fair market value of the shares underlying the option and the aggregate exercise price for such shares); (ii) holders of time-vesting restricted stock units (“RSUs”) received a distribution equivalent distribution of $0.19 per RSU on December 27, 2012, (iii) holders of performance-vesting restricted stock units (“PSUs”) became eligible to receive $0.19 per PSU, payable, in the case of any unvested PSUs, only upon the subsequent vesting of the PSUs, and (iv) for purposes of determining whether the performance vesting requirement of a $3.00 weighted average closing share price over a trailing thirty-day period has been met for outstanding PSUs, $0.19 per share is added to the closing price for each day occurring on or after December 18, 2012. The Company did not record any incremental stock-based compensation in connection with the adjustment of stock options, payment of distributions on the RSUs and accrual of distributions on the PSUs. Some of the PSUs vested in January 2013 and the Special Distributions related to such PSUs were paid. There is still $0.3 million which will be paid when the remaining PSUs vest. The Special Distribution payments were $0.5 million in 2013 and $43.3 million in 2012, for a total of $43.8 million.
	Common Stock
	On April 22, 2013, Rentech announced that the Board authorized the repurchase of up to $25.0 million, exclusive of commissions, of outstanding shares of its common stock through December 31, 2013. No shares were acquired through December 31, 2013 and the share purchase program has expired.
	Preferred Stock / Tax Benefit Preservation Plan
	On August 5, 2011, the Board approved a Tax Benefit Preservation Plan between the Company and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as rights agent (as amended from time to time, the “Original Plan”).
	The Company has accumulated substantial operating losses. By adopting the Original Plan, the Board is seeking to protect the Company’s ability to carry forward its net operating losses (collectively, “NOLs”). For federal and state income tax purposes, the Company may “carry forward” NOLs in certain circumstances to offset current and future taxable income, which will reduce future federal and state income tax liability, subject to certain requirements and restrictions. However, if the Company were to experience an “ownership change,” as defined in Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), its ability to utilize these NOLs to offset future taxable income could be significantly limited. Generally, an “ownership change” would occur if the percentage of the Company’s stock owned by one or more “five percent stockholders” increases by more than fifty percentage points over the lowest percentage of stock owned by such stockholders at any time during the prior three-year period.
	The Original Plan is intended to act as a deterrent to any person acquiring 4.99% or more of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock or any existing 4.99% or greater holder from acquiring more than an additional 1% of then outstanding common stock, in each case, without the approval of the Board and to thus mitigate the threat that stock ownership changes present to the Company’s NOL. The Original Plan includes procedures whereby the Board will consider requests to exempt certain acquisitions of common stock from the applicable ownership trigger if the Board determines that the acquisition will not limit or impair the availability of the NOLs to the Company.
	In connection with its adoption of the Original Plan, the Board declared a dividend of one preferred stock purchase right (individually, a “Right” and collectively, the “Rights”) for each share of common stock of the Company outstanding at the close of business on August 19, 2011 (the “Record Date”). Each Right entitles the registered holder, after the Rights become exercisable and until expiration, to purchase from the Company one ten-thousandth of a share of the Company’s Series D Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $10.00 per share (the “Preferred Stock”), at a price of $3.75 per one ten-thousandth of a share of Preferred Stock, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments (the “Purchase Price”).
	One Right was distributed to stockholders of the Company for each share of common stock owned of record by them at the close of business on August 19, 2011. As long as the Rights are attached to the common stock, the Company will issue one Right with each new share of common stock so that all such shares will have attached Rights. The Company has reserved 45,000 shares of Preferred Stock for issuance upon exercise of the Rights.
	On August 1, 2014, the Company entered into an amendment to the Original Plan (the “Plan Amendment”, and together with the Original Plan, the “Plan”), primarily to extend the final expiration date of the rights contained therein from August 5, 2014 to August 4, 2017, subject to shareholder approval. As a result, the Rights will expire, unless earlier redeemed or exchanged by the Company or terminated, on the earliest to occur of: (i) August 5, 2017, subject to the Company’s right to extend such date, (ii) the first business day following the 2015 annual shareholder meeting, if shareholder approval of the Plan has not been obtained by that date, or (ii) the time at which the Board determines that the NOLs are fully utilized or no longer available under Section 382 of the Code, or that an ownership change under Section 382 of the Code would not adversely impact in any material respect the time period in which the Company could use the NOLs, or materially impair the amount of the NOLs that could be used by the Company in any particular time period, for applicable tax purposes. The Rights do not have any voting rights.
	Long-Term Incentive Equity Awards
	Performance Awards 2012 – 2014
	Two types of performance awards were granted in December 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	The performance awards granted during the year ended December 31, 2014 vest over a four year period based on the Company’s level of total shareholder return over such period plus the recipient’s continued service with the Company.
	The performance awards granted during the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 vest equally over a three-year period from grant date based on the Company’s level of total shareholder return over such period plus the recipient’s continued service with the Company.
	Time Vested Awards 2012 – 2014
	All of the time-based awards, which were issued during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, vest over a three year period subject to the recipient’s continued service with the Company.
	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company issued the following performance shares and restricted stock units:
		Number of Awards
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Type of Award
	Performance awards		5,564,000		3,005,000		1,963,000
	Time-vested awards		521,000		1,994,000		1,136,000
	Total		6,085,000		4,999,000		3,099,000

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation (Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member]
Accounting for Equity Based Compensation	Note 18 — Accounting for Equity Based Compensation
	The accounting guidance requires all share-based payments, including grants of stock options, to be recognized in the statement of operations, based on their fair values. Stock based compensation expense for all fiscal periods is based on estimated grant-date fair value. Stock options generally vest over three years. As a result, compensation expense recorded during the period includes amortization related to grants during the period as well as prior grants. Most grants have graded vesting provisions where an equal number of shares vest on each anniversary of the grant date. The Company allocates the total compensation cost on a straight-line attribution method over the requisite service period. Most grants vest upon the fulfillment of service conditions and have no performance or market-based vesting conditions. Certain grants of warrants and restricted stock units include share price driven vesting provisions. Stock based compensation expense that the Company records is included in selling, general and administrative expense. There was no tax benefit in periods reported herein from recording this non-cash expense as such benefits will be recorded upon utilization of the Company’s net operating losses.
	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with all equity-based grants were recorded as follows:
		For the Years Ended
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Compensation expense	$	4,658		$	5,319		$	7,357
	Board compensation expense		872			603			591
	Total compensation expense		5,530			5,922			7,948
	Consulting expense		—			18			74
	Total expense	$	5,530		$	5,940		$	8,022
	Reduction to both basic and diluted earnings per share from compensation expense	$	0.02		$	0.03		$	0.04
	The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the weighted average fair value of options and warrants. The assumptions utilized to determine the fair value of options and warrants are indicated in the following table:
		For the Year Ended
		December 31,
		2014
	Risk-free interest rate		1.28% - 1.65	%
	Expected volatility		54.5% - 57.3	%
	Expected life (in years)		3.58 - 4.41
	Dividend yield		0	%
	Forfeiture rate		0 - 22	%
	The risk-free interest rate is based on a treasury instrument whose term is consistent with the expected life of the Company’s stock options. The Company used the last day of the month stock price over the last 54 months to calculate and project expected stock price volatility Expected volatility was assumed to equal historical volatility. The estimated expected term of the grant is based on the Company’s historical exercise experience. The Company included a forfeiture component in the pricing model on certain grants to employees, based on historical forfeiture rate for the grantees’ level employees.
	The number of shares reserved and outstanding as of December 31, 2012 have been adjusted to reflect the increase of 312,000 shares that resulted from adjustments resulting from the Special Distribution. The number of shares reserved, outstanding and available for issuance are as follows:
		Shares Reserved			Shares Underlying					Shares Available for Issuance
		as of December 31,			Outstanding Awards as of					as of December 31,
					December 31,
		2014			2014			2013		2014		2013
		(in thousands)
	Name of Plan
	2005 Stock Option Plan		1,000			210			195		—		—
	2006 Incentive Award Plan:
	Stock options		8,000			1,368			1,338		—		—
	Restricted stock units and performance share awards					—			1,322		—		—
	2009 Incentive Award Plan:
	Stock options		39,217			1,438			1,713		12,285		4,483
	Restricted stock units and performance share awards					8,286			9,991		—		—
	Adjustment for Special Distribution		312			—			244		—		—
			48,529			11,302			14,803		12,285		4,483
	Restricted stock units not from a plan		3,119			3,119			17		—		—
			51,648			14,421			14,820		12,285		4,483
	Stock Options
	The Company has multiple stock option plans under which options have been granted to employees, including officers and directors of the Company, to purchase shares of the Company at a price not less than the fair market value of the Company’s common stock at the date the options were granted. Each of these plans allows the issuance of incentive stock options, within the meaning of the Code, and other options pursuant to the plan that constitute non-statutory options. Options under the Company’s 2005 Stock Option Plan generally expire five years from the date of grant or at an alternative date as determined by the committee of the Board that administers the plan. Options under the Company’s 2006 Incentive Award Plan and the 2009 Incentive Award Plan generally expire between three and ten years from the date of grant or at an alternative date as determined by the committee of the Board that administers the plan. Options under the Company’s 2005 Stock Option Plan, 2006 Incentive Award Plan and the 2009 Incentive Award Plan are generally exercisable on the grant date or a vesting schedule between one and three years from the grant date as determined by the committee of the Board that administers the plans.
	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with stock option grants were recorded as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Compensation expense	$	39		$	516		$	658
	Board compensation expense		17			—			—
	Total compensation expense		56			516			658
	Consulting expense		—			18			22
	Total expense	$	56		$	534		$	680
	Option transactions during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
		Number of			Weighted			Aggregate
		Shares			Average			Intrinsic
					Exercise			Value
					Price
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011		4,672,000		$	1.64
	Granted		—			—
	Exercised		(276,000	)		1.1
	Canceled / Expired		(236,000	)		1.89
	Adjustment for Special Distribution		312,000
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012		4,472,000			1.67		$	5,848,000
Granted		—			—
Exercised		(711,000	)		1.03
Canceled / Expired		(271,000	)		2.4
Outstanding at December 31, 2013		3,490,000		$	1.59		$	2,144,448
Granted		1,122,000			1.25
Exercised		(393,000	)		1.17
Canceled / Expired		(100,000	)		0.89
Outstanding at December 31, 2014		4,119,000		$	1.55		$	784,931
Options exercisable at December 31, 2014		3,017,000		$	1.67		$	762,882
Options exercisable at December 31, 2013		3,436,000		$	1.6
Options exercisable at December 31, 2012		3,485,000		$	1.73
Weighted average fair value of options granted during the year ended December 31, 2014				$	0.53
The aggregate intrinsic value was calculated based on the difference between the Company’s stock price on December 31, 2014 and the exercise price of the outstanding shares, multiplied by the number of shares underlying outstanding awards as of December 31, 2014. The total intrinsic values of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $0.35 million, $0.9 million and $0.3 million, respectively.
As of December 31, 2014, there was $0.3 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements from previously granted stock options. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.94 years.
The following information summarizes stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014:
	Outstanding								Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number			Weighted Average			Weighted		Number		Weighted
	Outstanding			Remaining			Average		Exercisable		Average
				Contractual Life			Exercise				Exercise
				in Years			Price				Price
$0.50-$0.92		1,955,000			3.6		$	0.88		1,955,000	$	0.88
$0.96-$1.00		27,000			6.49			0.96		27,000		0.96
$1.12-$1.81		1,360,000			4.66			1.25		258,000		1.31
$2.07-$2.50		32,000			2.31			2.07		32,000		2.07
$3.50		21,000			1.95			3.5		21,000		3.5
$3.87-$4.00		724,000			1.14			3.88		724,000		3.88
		4,119,000			3.52		$	1.55		3,017,000	$	1.67
Warrants
During fiscal 2005, the Company issued a warrant to Management Resource Center, Inc., an entity controlled by D. Hunt Ramsbottom, the Company’s former President and CEO. During the last quarter of fiscal 2005, Mr. Ramsbottom assigned the warrant to East Cliff Advisors, LLC, an entity controlled by Mr. Ramsbottom. The warrant is for the purchase of 3.5 million shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $1.82 per share. The warrant has vested or will vest in the following incremental amounts upon such time as the Company’s stock reaches the stated closing prices for 12 consecutive trading days: 10% at $2.10 (vested); 15% at $2.75 (vested); 20% at $3.50 (vested); 25% at $4.25 (vested); and 30% at $5.25 (not vested). The Company recognizes compensation expense as the warrants vest, as the total number of shares to be granted under the warrant was not known on the grant date. In fiscal 2005, the Company accounted for the warrant under guidance for accounting for stock issued to employees due to the employer-employee relationship between the Company and Mr. Ramsbottom. Under the guidance applicable at the time, compensation cost would be recognized for stock based compensation granted to employees only when the exercise price of the Company’s stock options granted is less than the market price of the underlying common stock on the date of grant.
The original warrants covered 2,082,500 shares that had vested and 1,050,000 shares that had not vested. East Cliff Advisors assigned 262,500 unvested warrants to a third party and continued to hold 787,500 unvested warrants. In January 2009, the vesting terms and expiration for the warrants held by East Cliff Advisors, LLC were amended. As amended, with respect to the unvested warrants representing 787,500 shares, half of these warrants vested on December 31, 2011. The exercise price of the warrants remained at $1.82 per share. The expiration date for this half of the warrants was extended from August 4, 2010 to December 31, 2012. The warrants were excised during the year ended December 31, 2012. The other 393,750 unvested warrants and the original vested 2,082,500 warrants expired on December 31, 2011.
During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, there was no compensation expense associated with grants of warrants.
Warrant transactions during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
	Number of			Weighted
	Shares			Average
				Exercise
				Price
Outstanding at December 31, 2011		10,424,000		$	1.96
Granted		—			—
Vested		—			—
Exercised		(5,156,000	)		1.27
Canceled / Expired		(4,018,000	)		3.28
Outstanding at December 31, 2012		1,250,000		$	0.57
Granted		—			—
Vested		—			—
Exercised		—			—
Canceled / Expired		—			—
Outstanding at December 31, 2013		1,250,000		$	0.57
Granted		—			—
Vested		—			—
Exercised		—			—
Canceled / Expired		—			—
Outstanding at December 31, 2014		1,250,000		$	0.57
Warrants exercisable at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012		1,250,000		$	0.57
As of December 31, 2014, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to share-based compensation arrangements from previously granted warrants.
The following information summarizes warrants outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014:
	Outstanding								Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number			Weighted Average			Weighted		Number		Weighted
	Outstanding			Remaining			Average		Exercisable		Average
				Contractual Life			Exercise				Exercise
				in Years			Price				Price
$0.57		1,250,000			N/A		$	0.57		1,250,000	$	0.57
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Awards
The Company issues Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) which are equity-based instruments that may be settled in shares of common stock of the Company. In the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company issued RSUs and Performance Share Awards to certain employees and directors as long-term incentives.
Most RSU agreements vest with the passage of time and include a three-year vesting period such that one-third will vest on each annual anniversary date of the commencement date of the agreement. Other RSU agreements contain vesting provisions based on performance against certain specific goals. The vesting of all RSUs is contingent on continued employment of the grantee. The vesting of various RSUs are subject to partial or complete acceleration under certain circumstances, including termination without cause, end of employment for good reason or upon a change in control (in each case as defined in the agreement). In certain agreements, if the Company fails to offer to renew an employment agreement on competitive terms or if a termination occurs which would entitle the grantee to severance during the period of three months prior and two years after a change in control, the vesting of the restricted stock unit grant will accelerate.
The compensation expense incurred by the Company for RSUs is based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant and is amortized ratably on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period and charged to selling, general and administrative expense with a corresponding increase to additional paid-in capital. The compensation expense incurred by the Company for Performance Share Awards is based on the Monte Carlo valuation model. For the 2014 Performance Share Awards, the key assumptions used in the Monte Carlo valuation model were an expected volatility of 54.58%, a risk-free rate of interest of 1.38% and a dividend yield of 0.00%. For the 2013 Performance Share Awards, the key assumptions used in the Monte Carlo valuation model were an expected volatility of 57.51%, a risk-free rate of interest of 0.64% and a dividend yield of 0.00%.
During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with RSUs and Performance Share Award grants were recorded as follows:
	For the Years Ended
	December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
Compensation expense	$	4,619		$	4,803		$	6,699
Board compensation expense		504			202			190
Total compensation expense	$	5,123		$	5,005		$	6,889
RSU and Performance Share Award transactions during the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
	Number of			Weighted			Aggregate
	Shares			Average			Intrinsic
				Grant Date			Value
				Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2011		11,888,000			1.37
Granted		3,099,000			2.55
Vested and Settled in Shares		(2,080,000	)		1.35
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(975,000	)		1.4
Canceled / Expired		(931,000	)		1.37
Outstanding at December 31, 2012		11,001,000			1.71		$	28,934,000
Granted		4,999,000			1.66
Vested and Settled in Shares		(2,680,000	)		1.49
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(1,812,000	)		1.37
Canceled / Expired		(178,000	)		2.18
Outstanding at December 31, 2013		11,330,000			1.76		$	23,793,000
Granted		6,085,000			1.88
Vested and Settled in Shares		(1,500,000	)		1.87
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(688,000	)		1.82
Canceled / Expired		(5,025,000	)		1.16
Outstanding at December 31, 2014		10,202,000			1.28		$	12,845,706
Of the 10,202,000 RSUs and Performance Share Awards outstanding at December 31, 2014, 8,185,000 were granted pursuant to the 2009 Incentive Award Plan. The other 2,017,000 RSUs were not granted pursuant to a stock option plan but were “inducement grants.” Of the 11,330,000 RSUs and Performance Share Awards outstanding at December 31, 2013, 1,322,000 and 9,991,000 were granted pursuant to the Company’s 2006 Incentive Award Plan and 2009 Incentive Award Plan, respectively. The other 17,000 RSUs were not granted pursuant to a stock option plan but were “inducement grants.” Of the 11,001,000 RSUs and Performance Share Awards outstanding at December 31, 2012, 1,745,000 and 9,223,000 were granted pursuant to the Company’s 2006 Incentive Award Plan and 2009 Incentive Award Plan, respectively.
As of December 31, 2014, there was $4.9 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements from previously granted RSUs and Performance Share Awards. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.5 years.
The grant date fair value of RSUs and Performance Share Awards that vested during the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $4.0 million, $3.9 million and $4.2 million, respectively.
Stock Grants
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company granted a total of 140,000 shares of stock to its directors, of which 40,000 shares vested at grant date and were issued, and 100,000 shares were vested at grant date but not issued as of December 31, 2014. This resulted in stock-based compensation expense of $351,000 for the shares granted to the directors. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company issued a total of 178,400 shares of stock to its directors, which were fully vested at date of grant. This resulted in stock-based compensation expense of $401,400 for the shares granted to the directors. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company issued a total of 259,400 shares of stock which were fully vested at date of grant. Of this amount, 234,400 shares, which were evenly distributed, were granted to the directors and 25,000 shares were granted to a consultant. This resulted in stock-based compensation expense of $401,000 and $52,000 for the shares granted to the directors and consultant, respectively.
2011 LTIP
Some grants under the Rentech Nitrogen Partners, L.P. 2011 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2011 LTIP”) are marked-to market at each reporting date. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with all equity-based grants issued by RNP under the 2011 LTIP were recorded as follows:
	For the Years
	Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Stock based compensation expense	$	1,283		$	1,460		$	2,827
Phantom unit transactions during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
	Number of			Weighted			Aggregate
	Shares			Average			Intrinsic
				Grant Date			Value
				Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2011		163,388			18.4
Granted		54,059			34.86
Vested and Settled in Shares		(42,350	)		(15.68	)
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(20,040	)		(18.40	)
Canceled / Expired		(119	)		(18.40	)
Outstanding at December 31, 2012		154,938		$	23.78		$	5,839,626
Granted		116,508			18.71
Vested and Settled in Shares		(49,409	)		(23.42	)
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(27,127	)		(21.75	)
Canceled / Expired		(1,278	)		(35.14	)
Outstanding at December 31, 2013		193,632		$	20.97		$	3,407,929
Granted		160,088			10.93
Vested and Settled in Shares		(83,471	)		(20.68	)
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(35,342	)		(20.91	)
Canceled / Expired		(15,049	)		(24.79	)
Outstanding at December 31, 2014		219,858		$	11.33		$	2,310,711
During the year ended December 31, 2014, RNP issued 160,088 unit-settled phantom units (which entitle the holder to distribution rights during the vesting period) covering RNP’s common units. 142,228 of the phantom units are time-vested awards that vest in three equal annual installments. 5,970 of the phantom units were time-vested awards issued to the directors that vested on the one-year anniversary of the Offering. The phantom unit grants resulted in unit-based compensation expense of $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.
As of December 31, 2014, there was $2.3 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements from previously granted phantom units. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.5 years.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, RNP issued a total of 11,890 common units which were fully vested at date of grant. The common units were issued to the directors and resulted in unit-based compensation expense of $0.2 million.

Future_Minimum_Lease_Receipts

Future Minimum Lease Receipts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Future Minimum Lease Receipts	Note 19 — Future Minimum Lease Receipts
	The Company has certain wood chip processing and wood yard operations agreements, which contain embedded leases. The cost and carrying values of the properties underlying the leases are $86.2 million and $76.3 million, respectively.
	The following is a schedule by years of minimum future rentals on non-cancelable operating leases as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
	For the Years Ending December 31,
	2015	$	28,887
	2016		25,201
	2017		21,392
	2018		15,280
	2019		11,425
		$	102,185

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Note 20 — Employee Benefit Plans
	Defined Contribution Plans
	The Company has a 401(k) plan. Most employees, excluding RNLLC’s union employees, who are at least 18 years of age are eligible to participate in the plan on the first of the month following 60 days of employment and share in the employer matching contribution. The Company is currently matching 100% of the first 3% and 50% of the next 3% of the participant’s salary deferrals. The Company contributed $1.3 million to the plans for the year ended December 31, 2014, $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $1.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans
	Reporting and disclosures related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans require that companies include an additional asset or liability on the balance sheet to reflect the funded status of retirement and other postretirement benefit plans, and a corresponding after-tax adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income.
	RNP has two noncontributory pension plans (the “Pension Plans”), which cover either hourly paid employees represented by collective bargaining agreements in effect at its Pasadena Facility or hourly employees at its Pasadena Facility who have 1,000 hours of service during a year of employment.
	RNP has a postretirement benefit plan (the “Postretirement Plan”) for certain employees at its Pasadena Facility. The plan provides a fixed dollar amount to supplement payment of eligible medical expenses. The amount of the supplement under the plan is based on years of service and the type of coverage elected (single or family members and spouses). Participants are eligible for supplements at retirement after age 55 with at least 20 years of service to be paid until the attainment of age 65 or another disqualifying event, if earlier.
	The following tables summarize the projected benefit obligation, the assets and the funded status of the Pension Plans and the Postretirement Plan at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
			As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013
			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
			(in thousands)
	Projected benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	4,505		$	853		$	4,841		$	1,136
	Service cost			106			35			137			43
	Interest cost			213			37			194			43
	Actuarial (gain) loss			1,125			93			(528	)		(233	)
	Actual benefit paid			(153	)		(91	)		(139	)		(136	)
	Benefit obligation at end of year			5,796			927			4,505			853
	Fair value of plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year			4,927			—			4,333			—
	Actual return on plan assets			251			—			624			—
	Employer contributions			—			91			109			136
	Actual benefit paid			(153	)		(91	)		(139	)		(136	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year			5,025			—			4,927			—
	Funded status at end of year			(771	)		(927	)		422			(853	)
	Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet
	Noncurrent assets		$			$	—		$	422		$	—
	Current liabilities			—			(81	)		—			(86	)
	Noncurrent liabilities			(771	)		(846	)		—			(767	)
			$	(771	)		(927	)	$	422			(853	)
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the accumulated benefit obligation equaled the projected benefit obligation.
	The components of net periodic benefit cost and other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income are as follows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
			For the Year						For the Year						For the Year
			Ended December 31, 2014						Ended December 31, 2013						Ended December 31, 2012
			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
			(in thousands)
	Net periodic benefit cost
	Service cost		$	107		$	35		$	137		$	43		$	29		$	4
	Interest cost			213			37			194			43			31			5
	Expected return on plan assets			(290	)		—			(260	)		—			(42	)		—
	Amortization of prior service cost			—			22			—			22			—			—
	Amortization of net gain			(54	)		—			(5	)		—			—			—
	Recognized gain			—			(16	)		—			—			—			—
	Net periodic pension costs		$	(24	)	$	78		$	66		$	108		$	18		$	9
	Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income
	Net actuarial (gain) loss		$	1,163		$	93		$	(893	)	$	(233	)	$	(444	)	$	(54	)
	Recognized actuarial gain			54			16			5			—			—			—
	Prior service cost			—			—			—			—			—			332
	Recognized prior service cost			—			(22	)		—			(22	)		—			—
	Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss		$	1,217		$	87		$	(888	)	$	(255	)	$	(444	)	$	278
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 consists of the following amounts that have not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost:
			As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013						As of December 31, 2012
			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
			(in thousands)
	Net gain		$	(114	)	$	(178	)	$	(1,332	)	$	(287	)	$	(444	)	$	(54	)
	Prior service cost			—			287			—			310			—			332
			$	(114	)	$	109		$	(1,332	)	$	23		$	(444	)	$	278
	The expected portion of the accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in 2015 is $0 for the Pension Plans and $16,000 for the Postretirement Plan.
	Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations:
			As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013						As of December 31, 2012
			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
	Discount rate			4	%		3.9	%		4.8	%		4.7	%		4.1	%		4	%
	Weighted average assumptions used to determine net pension cost:
			For the Year						For the Year						For the Year
Ended December 31, 2014					Ended December 31, 2013					Ended December 31, 2012
		Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
Discount rate			4.8	%		4.7	%		4.1	%		4	%		3.6	%		3.6	%
Expected rate of return on assets			6	%		N/A			6	%		N/A			6	%		N/A
Determination of the Expected Long-Term Rate of Return on Assets
The overall expected long-term rate of return on assets assumption is based on the long-term target asset allocation for plan assets and capital markets return forecasts for asset classes employed. A portion of the asset returns are subject to taxation, so the expected long-term rate of return for these assets is determined on an after-tax basis. The GAAP gain/loss methodology provides that differences between expected and actual returns are recognized over the average future service of employees.
		Postretirement
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
Health care cost trend: initial			9	%		7.25	%		7.5	%
Health care cost trend: ultimate			5	%		5	%		5	%
Year ultimate reached			2025			2023			2023
As the Postretirement Plan provides a fixed dollar amount to participants, increasing or decreasing the health care cost trend rate by 1% would not have a material impact on the December 31, 2014 and 2013 obligations.
		As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013
		Target			Percentage of			Target			Percentage of
		Allocation			Pension Plan			Allocation			Pension Plan
					Assets 2014						Assets 2013
Asset Category
Equity securities			50	%		52	%		50	%		52	%
Debt securities			50	%		48	%		50	%		48	%
The goals of the Pension Plans’ asset investment strategy are to:
1)	Provide benefits to the participants and their beneficiaries and defray the reasonable expenses of administering the Pension Plans.
2)	Contribute the amounts necessary to maintain the Pension Plans on a sound actuarial basis and to satisfy the minimum funding standards established by law.
3)	Invest without distinction between principal and income and in such securities or property, real or personal, wherever situated, including, but not limited to, stocks, common or preferred, bonds and other evidence of indebtedness or ownership, and real estate or any interest therein, taking into consideration the short and long-term financial needs of the Pension Plans.
The Pension Plans seek to maintain compliance with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and any applicable regulations and laws.
The pension plan assets are deemed to be Level 2 financial instruments at December 31, 2014 and Level 1 at December 31, 2013. The fair value of the pension plan assets consist of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
Mutual funds — equity		$	2,671		$	2,560
Mutual funds — fixed income			2,151			2,356
Other			203			11
Fair value of plan assets		$	5,025		$	4,927
RNP expects to contribute $0 to the Pension Plans and $83,000 to the Postretirement Plan in 2015.
Expected Future Benefit Payments:
		Pension			Postretirement
		(in thousands)
2015		$	209		$	83
2016			214			65
2017			226			74
2018			232			69
2019			238			53
2020-2024			1,297			240
Executive Severance Payments
In accordance with our former chief executive officer’s employment contract, upon his cessation of employment with the Company in December 2014, he became entitled to severance equal to three times his annual salary, payable over the two-year period after his departure from the Company. This amount was recorded during the year ended December 31, 2014.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 21 — Income Taxes
	Accounting guidance requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be recognized for temporary differences between the tax basis and financial reporting basis of assets and liabilities, computed at the expected tax rates for the periods in which the assets or liabilities will be realized, as well as for the expected tax benefit of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. A full valuation allowance was recorded against the deferred tax assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 for the Company’s United States operations.
	The realization of deferred income tax assets is dependent on the generation of taxable income in appropriate jurisdictions during the periods in which those temporary differences are deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred income tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in determining the amount of the valuation allowance. Based on the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred income tax assets are deductible, management determines if it is more likely than not that the Company will not fully realize the benefits of these deductible differences in the United States. As of December 31, 2014, the most significant factors considered in determining the realizability of these deferred tax assets were the Company’s profitability over the past three years and the projected future taxable income of the new acquired companies. Management believes that at this point in time, it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will not be fully realized. The Company therefore has recorded a valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets at December 31, 2014.
	As of December 31, 2014, Fulghum owned 88% of the equity interests in the subsidiaries located in Chile and 87% of the equity interests in the subsidiaries located in Uruguay. Upon acquisition, Fulghum’s management concluded the earnings of these foreign subsidiaries should be taxed at the full United States tax rate and are not permanently reinvested under accounting guidance. As such, the Company provided for a deferred tax liability on the book-tax basis difference through purchase price accounting.
	On May 1, 2014, the Company acquired all of the equity interests of NEWP in an asset acquisition, pursuant to the NEWP Purchase Agreement. Upon the closing of the NEWP Acquisition, NEWP became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.
	The income tax provision (benefit) for continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Current:
	Federal	$	—		$	66		$	711
	State		1,359			644			3,664
	Foreign		459			114			—
	Total Current		1,818			824			4,375
	Deferred:
	Federal	$	(323	)	$	(22,038	)	$	—
	State		7			(5,092	)		—
	Foreign		—			—			—
	Total Deferred		(316	)		(27,130	)		—
		$	1,502		$	(26,306	)	$	4,375
	A reconciliation of the income taxes at the federal statutory rate to the effective tax rate for continuing operations is as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Federal income tax benefit calculated at the federal statutory rate	$	(12,065	)	$	(6,667	)	$	24,431
	Impact of foreign earnings		678			669			—
	State income tax benefit net of federal benefit		(1,060	)		(770	)		(859	)
	Permanent differences, other		127			316			357
	Return to provision		91			467			—
	Change in state tax rate		1,144			—			(1,006	)
	Minority interest, net of state tax benefit		(115	)		685			(13,124	)
	Partnership state taxes		18			(96	)		303
	Basis difference in foreign subsidiaries		103			374			—
	Partnership basis difference		45			(1,022	)		(3,439	)
	Change in valuation allowance		13,044			(20,330	)		(2,288	)
	Other items		(508	)		68			—
	Income tax expense from continuing operations	$	1,502		$	(26,306	)	$	4,375
	The components of the net deferred tax liability and net deferred tax asset as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	Current:
	Accruals for financial statement purposes not allowed for income taxes	$	4,297		$	2,626
	Basis difference in prepaid expenses		(334	)		(344	)
	Inventory		15			—
	Unrealized gain		(107	)		(12	)
	Other items		(30	)		—
	Valuation allowance		(1,971	)		(1,130	)
	Current, net		1,870			1,140
	Long-Term:
	Net operating loss and AMT credit carryforwards	$	69,021		$	55,066
	R&D credit carryforward		6,191			6,191
	Basis difference relating to intangibles		(10,644	)		(11,336	)
	Basis difference in property, plant and equipment		(19,971	)		(11,421	)
	Stock option exercises		3,854			3,344
	Basis difference in foreign subsidiaries		(5,962	)		(6,142	)
	Basis difference in partnership interest		(17,877	)		(19,051	)
	Other items		2,610			1,652
	Valuation allowance		(37,072	)		(27,574	)
	Long-Term, net	$	(9,850	)	$	(9,271	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities, net	$	(7,980	)	$	(8,131	)
	The total gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $86.0 million and $68.9 million, respectively. The total gross deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $94.0 million and $77.0 million respectively.
As of December 31, 2014, the Company had the following available carryforwards and tax attributes to offset future taxable income:
Description	Amount			Expiration
	(in thousands)
Net Operating Losses – Federal	$	176,735			2021 – 2034
Net Operating Losses – States (Post-Apportionment and Pre-tax)
Alabama	$	676			2015 – 2030
California		12,849			2016 – 2032
Colorado		5,866			2028 – 2035
Georgia		1,013			2022 – 2030
Hawaii		6,216			2025 – 2035
Illinois		107,595			2020 – 2027
Mississippi		721			2020 – 2035
	$	134,936
R&D federal credit	$	6,981			2027 – 2033
Alternative minimum tax credit	$	1,471			No Expiration
Tax Contingencies
Accounting guidance prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The guidance requires that the Company recognize in its consolidated financial statements, only those tax positions that are “more-likely-than-not” of being sustained as of the adoption date, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company performed a comprehensive review of its material tax positions in accordance with accounting guidance.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
	As of December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Liability
Balance at beginning of year	$	4,268		$	2,754		$	2,754
Additions based on tax positions taken during a prior period		21			3,479			—
Additions based on tax positions related to the current period		4			—			—
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years		(701	)		(1,965	)		—
Settlements with taxing authorities		—			—			—
Lapse of statutes of limitations		—			—			—
Balance at end of year	$	3,592		$	4,268		$	2,754
The additions based on tax positions taken during a prior period relate to the acquisition of Fulghum and to positions taken with respect to the Company’s foreign subsidiaries in Uruguay and Chile. The Company is indemnified for these positions by the seller in the Fulghum Acquisition. The reduction in the unrecognized tax liability relates to the Company’s state NOLs.
Of the $3.6 million of unrecognized tax benefits, $0.8 million, if recognized, would have an impact on the effective tax rate. The remaining $2.8 million would not have an impact on the effective tax rate as the Company is indemnified by the seller. The Company believes that it is possible that the unrecognized tax benefits will significantly decrease within the next 12 months, but that the reductions would not impact the Company’s effective tax rate. The amount that is expected to decrease relates to the exposures in connection with the foreign subsidiaries of Fulghum mentioned above. The Company expects that one of the uncertain positions related to Fulghum Uruguay will be settled with the Uruguay taxing authorities. The amount of tax related to this position is $0.9 million. The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to the following material taxing jurisdictions: United States federal, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Hampshire and Texas. The tax years that remain open to examination by the United States federal jurisdiction (not including the current year) are years 2011 through 2013; the tax years that remain open to examination by the Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia jurisdictions are years 2011 through 2013; the tax years that remain open to examination (not including the current year) by the California, Colorado and Texas jurisdictions are years 2010 through 2013. As a result of the NEWP Acquisition, the Company is now subject to taxation in New Hampshire and New York in the United States.
In accordance with its accounting policy, the Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of tax expense. The Company has not accrued any interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in the balance sheet or statement of operations as a result of the Company’s net operating loss position.
While management believes the Company has adequately provided for all tax positions, amounts asserted by taxing authorities could materially differ from the Company’s accrued positions as a result of uncertain and complex application of tax regulations. Additionally, the recognition and measurement of certain tax benefits includes estimates and judgment by management and inherently includes subjectivity. Accordingly, additional provisions on federal and state tax-related matters could be recorded in the future as revised estimates are made or the underlying matters are settled or otherwise resolved.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Note 22 — Segment Information
	The Company operates in five business segments, as described below. The Pasadena Facility’s operations are included in the Company’s historical operating results only from the closing date of the Agrifos Acquisition, which was November 1, 2012. Fulghum’s operations are included only from the closing date of the Fulghum Acquisition, which was May 1, 2013. NEWP’s operations are included only from the closing date of the NEWP Acquisition, which was May 1, 2014. Results of the energy technologies segment are accounted for as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The Company’s five business segments are:
		•		East Dubuque — The operations of the East Dubuque Facility, which produces primarily ammonia and UAN.
		•		Pasadena — The operations of the Pasadena Facility, which produces primarily ammonium sulfate.
		•		Fulghum Fibres — The operations of Fulghum, which provides wood yard operations services and wood fibre processing services, sells wood chips to the pulp, paper and packaging industry, and owns and manages forestland and sells bark to industrial consumers in South America.
		•		Wood Pellets: Industrial — This segment includes wood pellet projects owned by the Company, currently the Atikokan Project and Wawa Project, and other wood pellet development activities. The wood pellet development activities represent the Company’s personnel costs for employees dedicated to the wood pellet business infrastructure and administration costs and other third party costs.
		•		Wood Pellets: NEWP — The operations of NEWP, which produces wood pellets for the residential and commercial heating markets.
	The Company’s reportable operating segments have been determined in accordance with the Company’s internal management structure, which is organized based on operating activities. The Company evaluates performance based upon several factors, of which the primary financial measure is segment-operating income.
			For the Years
			Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
			(in thousands)
	Revenues
	East Dubuque		$	196,379		$	177,700		$	224,205
	Pasadena			138,233			133,675			37,430
	Fulghum Fibres			101,849			62,974			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial			4,086			—			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP			32,114			—			—
	Total revenues		$	472,661		$	374,349		$	261,635
	Gross profit (loss)
	East Dubuque		$	74,785		$	80,883		$	133,543
	Pasadena			(14,308	)		(9,529	)		(1,704	)
	Fulghum Fibres			12,444			12,032			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial			703			—			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP			6,050			—			—
	Total gross profit		$	79,674		$	83,386		$	131,839
	Selling, general and administrative expenses
	East Dubuque		$	4,165		$	4,576		$	6,242
	Pasadena			5,078			4,764			361
	Fulghum Fibres			6,399			3,754			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial			12,868			5,479			1,919
	Wood Pellets: NEWP			1,581			—			—
	Total segment selling, general and administrative expenses		$	30,091		$	18,573		$	8,522
	Depreciation and amortization
	East Dubuque		$	194		$	191		$	807
	Pasadena			1,315			3,886			583
	Fulghum Fibres			2,088			(1,708	)		—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial			139			26			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP			81			—			—
	Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses			3,817			2,395			1,390
	East Dubuque			15,718			9,048			10,690
	Pasadena			7,030			4,187			380
	Fulghum Fibres			7,374			4,836			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP			1,886			—			—
	Total depreciation and amortization recorded in cost of sales		$	32,008		$	18,071		$	11,070
	Total segment depreciation and amortization		$	35,825		$	20,466		$	12,460
	Other operating (income) expenses
	East Dubuque		$	537		$	806		$	510
	Pasadena			27,207			30,029			—
	Fulghum Fibres			38			72			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial			(350	)		—			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP			—			—			—
	Total segment other operating expenses		$	27,432		$	30,907		$	510
	Operating income (loss)
	East Dubuque		$	69,888		$	75,310		$	125,984
	Pasadena			(47,907	)		(48,208	)		(2,648	)
	Fulghum Fibres			3,919			9,914			—
			For the Years
			Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
			(in thousands)
	Wood Pellets: Industrial			(11,954	)		(5,505	)		(1,919	)
	Wood Pellets: NEWP			4,388			—			—
	Total segment operating income (loss)		$	18,334		$	31,511		$	121,417
Interest expense
East Dubuque		$	85		$	—		$	194
Pasadena			—			8			—
Fulghum Fibres			2,590			1,755			—
Wood Pellets: Industrial			3			—			—
Wood Pellets: NEWP			304			—			—
Total segment interest expense		$	2,982		$	1,763		$	194
Net income (loss)
East Dubuque		$	69,803		$	75,244		$	123,721
Pasadena			(47,925	)		(48,357	)		(2,648	)
Fulghum Fibres			75			6,967			—
Wood Pellets: Industrial			(11,616	)		(5,180	)		(1,919	)
Wood Pellets: NEWP			4,342			—			—
Total segment net income		$	14,679		$	28,674		$	119,154
Reconciliation of segment net income to consolidated net income (loss):
Segment net income		$	14,679		$	28,674		$	119,154
RNP – partnership and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses			(8,768	)		(7,945	)		(11,773	)
RNP – partnership and unallocated income (expenses) recorded as other income (expense)			4,800			(1,081	)		232
RNP – unallocated interest expense and loss on interest rate swaps			(18,972	)		(14,096	)		(2,226	)
RNP – income tax benefit (expense)			—			303			(303	)
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses			(28,043	)		(24,849	)		(23,432	)
Corporate and unallocated depreciation and amortization expense			(579	)		(596	)		(754	)
Corporate and unallocated income (expenses) recorded as other income (expense)			(1,634	)		19			(2,708	)
Corporate and unallocated interest expense			(380	)		(532	)		(9,055	)
Corporate income tax benefit (expense)			(866	)		26,747			(4,072	)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax			7,259			(6,606	)		(37,376	)
Consolidated net income (loss)		$	(32,504	)	$	38		$	27,687
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
Total assets
East Dubuque		$	186,508		$	175,430
Pasadena			193,737			188,836
Fulghum Fibres			197,418			188,397
Wood Pellets: Industrial			149,021			42,089
Wood Pellets: NEWP			56,134			—
Total segment assets		$	782,818		$	594,752
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
Reconciliation of segment total assets to consolidated total assets:
Segment total assets		$	782,818		$	594,752
RNP – partnership and other			34,071			42,078
Corporate and other			9,279			62,090
Discontinued operations			1,982			4,670
Consolidated total asset		$	828,150		$	703,590
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
Capital expenditures
East Dubuque		$	24,872		$	57,981		$	56,050
Pasadena			46,791			32,307			1,521
RNP – partnership and other			—			—			—
Fulghum Fibres			21,683			2,244			—
Wood Pellets: Industrial			79,603			11,359			—
Wood Pellets: NEWP			125			—			—
Corporate and other			1,437			808			1,130
Discontinued operations			—			6			430
Total capital expenditures		$	174,511		$	104,705		$	59,131
The Company’s revenues by geographic area, based on where the customer takes title to the product, were as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
United States		$	425,768		$	352,008		$	261,635
Canada			4,086			—			—
Other			42,807			22,341			—
Total revenues		$	472,661		$	374,349		$	261,635
The following table sets forth assets by geographic area:
		As of
		December 31,			December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
United States		$	637,271		$	633,886
Canada			149,021			42,089
Other			41,858			27,615
Total assets		$	828,150		$	703,590

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Common_Sha

Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Attributable To Rentech	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Attributable To Rentech	Note 23 — Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Attributable To Rentech
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Numerator:
	Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Rentech common shareholders	$	(39,269	)	$	5,074		$	23,376
	Less: Dividends and accretion on 2014 Preferred Stock		3,840			—			—
	Less: Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities		—			139			860
	Income (loss) from continuing operations allocated to common shareholders	$	(43,109	)	$	4,935		$	22,516
	Numerator:
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Rentech common shareholders	$	7,259		$	(6,606	)	$	(37,376	)
	Less: Income from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities		267			—			—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations allocated to common shareholders	$	6,992		$	(6,606	)	$	(37,376	)
	Numerator:
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech common shareholders	$	(32,010	)	$	(1,532	)	$	(14,000	)
	Less: Dividends and accretion on 2014 Preferred Stock		3,840			—			—
	Less: Income allocated to participating securities		—			—			—
	Net income (loss) allocated to common shareholders	$	(35,850	)	$	(1,532	)	$	(14,000	)
	Denominator:
	Weighted average common shares outstanding		228,560			226,139			223,189
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Warrants		—			927			920
	Common stock options		—			1,525			1,686
	Restricted stock		—			5,112			4,729
	Diluted shares outstanding		228,560			233,703			230,524
	Continuing operations	$	(0.19	)	$	0.02		$	0.1
	Discontinued operations	$	0.03		$	(0.03	)	$	(0.17	)
	Basic net income (loss) per common share	$	(0.16	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.06	)
	Continuing operations	$	(0.19	)	$	0.02		$	0.1
	Discontinued operations	$	0.03		$	(0.03	)	$	(0.16	)
	Diluted net income (loss) per common share	$	(0.16	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.06	)
	For the year ended December 31, 2014, 60.7 million of Rentech’s common stock issuable pursuant to stock options, stock warrants, restricted stock units and preferred stock were excluded from the calculation of diluted income (loss) per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.
	For the year ended December 31, 2013, 3.8 million of Rentech’s common stock issuable pursuant to stock options, stock warrants, and restricted stock units were excluded from the calculation of diluted income (loss) per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.
	For the year ended December 31, 2012, 4.3 million of Rentech’s common stock issuable pursuant to stock options, stock warrants, restricted stock units and convertible debt were excluded from the calculation of diluted income (loss) per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	Note 24 — Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
	Selected unaudited condensed consolidated financial information for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is presented in the tables below (in thousands, except per share data).
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
	For 2014
	Revenues	$	84,831		$	139,890		$	125,304		$	122,636
	Gross profit (loss)	$	17,895		$	31,439		$	12,969		$	17,371
	Operating income (loss)	$	2,995		$	(15,043	)	$	(4,312	)	$	(2,710	)
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	(4,123	)	$	(21,466	)	$	(10,445	)	$	(3,729	)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	(1,471	)	$	(1,567	)	$	(1,242	)	$	11,539
	Net income (loss)	$	(5,594	)	$	(23,033	)	$	(11,687	)	$	7,810
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	(1,394	)	$	3,588		$	1,311		$	(3,011	)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech	$	(6,988	)	$	(19,445	)	$	(10,376	)	$	4,799
	Net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech:
	Basic:
	Continuing operations	$	(0.02	)	$	(0.08	)	$	(0.05	)	$	(0.04	)
	Discontinued operations	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.05
	Net income (loss)	$	(0.03	)	$	(0.09	)	$	(0.05	)	$	0.01
	Diluted:
	Continuing operations	$	(0.02	)	$	(0.08	)	$	(0.05	)	$	(0.03	)
	Discontinued operations	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.05
	Net income (loss)	$	(0.03	)	$	(0.09	)	$	(0.05	)	$	0.01
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
	For 2013
	Revenues	$	59,564		$	120,061		$	115,657		$	79,067
	Gross profit (loss)	$	22,719		$	42,273		$	21,144		$	(2,750	)
	Operating income (loss)	$	8,990		$	27,688		$	(24,758	)	$	(13,799	)
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	7,679		$	45,802		$	(27,136	)	$	(19,701	)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	(6,893	)	$	(1,496	)	$	3,558		$	(1,775	)
	Net income (loss)	$	786		$	44,306		$	(23,578	)	$	(21,476	)
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	(6,026	)	$	(11,474	)	$	8,985		$	6,945
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech	$	(5,240	)	$	32,832		$	(14,593	)	$	(14,531	)
	Net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech:
	Basic:
	Continuing operations	$	0.01		$	0.15		$	(0.08	)	$	(0.06	)
	Discontinued operations	$	(0.03	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.02		$	(0.01	)
	Net income (loss)	$	(0.02	)	$	0.14		$	(0.06	)	$	(0.06	)
	Diluted:
	Continuing operations	$	0.01		$	0.14		$	(0.08	)	$	(0.06	)
	Discontinued operations	$	(0.03	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.02		$	(0.01	)
	Net income (loss)	$	(0.02	)	$	0.14		$	(0.06	)	$	(0.06	)
	The net income during the three months ended December 31, 2014 was primarily attributable to (i) the sale of the Company’s alternative energy technologies, which resulted in a gain of $15.3 million being recorded in discontinued operations; (ii) higher sales prices for ammonia, UAN and ammonium sulfate; and (iii) the Agrifos settlement income of $5.6 million, partially offset by (a) a loss on gas derivatives of $3.1 million; (b) severance costs for a former officer of the Company of $2.0 million; and (c) write-down of inventory of $1.5 million.
	The gross loss during the three months ended December 31, 2013 was primarily attributable to (i) turnaround expenses at the East Dubuque Facility of $7.8 million and the Pasadena Facility of $1.7 million; (ii) a write-down of the Pasadena Facility’s inventory of $5.1 million; (iii) fixed operating costs while the East Dubuque Facility was idle of $4.2 million; and (iv) the $1.0 million insurance deductible for the fire which occurred in November 2013 at the East Dubuque Facility.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Note 25 — Subsequent Events
	Acquisition
	On January 23, 2015, NEWP acquired the assets of Allegheny, which consists of a wood pellet processing facility located in Youngsville, Pennsylvania and $0.3 million of inventory, for $7.2 million. The Company financed the purchase with a five-year, $8.0 million term loan, which amortizes as if it had a seven-year maturity. The term loan has an interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.25 percent, and contains financial covenants that may restrict dividends from NEWP to Rentech. The excess proceeds from the term loan will be used for transaction costs and capital expenditures related to environmental and safety improvements at the Allegheny facility. The acquisition will be accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires, among other things, that assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date. The Company is unable as of the filing date of this report to provide the amounts recognized as of the acquisition date for the major classes of assets acquired and liabilities assumed.
	Distributions
	On February 12, 2015, RNP announced a cash distribution to its common unitholders for the period October 1, 2014 through and including December 31, 2014 of $0.30 per common unit which resulted in total distributions in the amount of $11.7 million, including payments to phantom unitholders. RNHI received a distribution of $7.0 million, representing its share of distributions based on its ownership of common units. The cash distribution was paid on February 27, 2015 to unitholders of record at the close of business on February 23, 2015.
	Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
	On February 12, 2015, RNHI entered into the A&R GSO Credit Agreement. The A&R GSO Credit Agreement consists of three tranches of term loans, all of which mature on April 9, 2019: (i) a $50 million term loan originally drawn on April 16, 2014 (“Tranche A Loans”), (ii) an up to $45 million delayed draw term loan facility (“Tranche B Loans”) and (iii) an up to $18 million delayed draw term loan facility (“Tranche C Loans,” and together with the Tranche A Loans and the Tranche B Loans, the “Loans” ). The Company expects that the Tranche B Loans will be used to fund the development of its wood pellet projects in Ontario, Canada, and that the Tranche C Loans will be used to fund (x) in the event the ammonia converter at the Company’s East Dubuque, Illinois facility fails during the first year after the date of the A&R GSO Credit Agreement, any shortfall in cash distributions made by RNP to the Company resulting from unplanned downtime at the facility and the cost of repairs to the ammonia converter in such period (such funding not to exceed $13 million) and (y) in the event that cash distributions made by RNP to the Company for any quarter during the year ending December 31, 2015 are less than the budgeted amounts by a certain percentage, and such shortfall is due primarily to any combination of lower product prices and higher raw material prices (other than raw material prices which have been locked in through advance purchase or hedging transactions), the amount of such cash shortfall (such funding not to exceed $5 million).
	Of the amounts available, $25 million of the Tranche B Loans was drawn on February 12, 2015. The remainder of the Tranche B Loans and the Tranche C Loans must be drawn, if at all, by February 12, 2016. Tranche A Loans under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to the greater of (i) LIBOR plus 7.00% and (ii) 8.00% per annum. Tranche B Loans and Tranche C Loans under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to the greater of (i) LIBOR plus 9.00% and (ii) 10.00% per annum. In the event the Borrower prepays any of the Loans on or prior to February 12, 2016, subject to certain exceptions, it will be required to pay a prepayment fee equal to 1.00% of the amount of the prepayment.
	The Borrower’s obligations under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement are guaranteed by the Company and the Company’s direct and indirect subsidiaries other than RNP, the subsidiaries of RNP and certain other excluded subsidiaries (such subsidiaries guaranteeing obligations under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement, the “Subsidiary Guarantors,” and together with the Company and the Borrower, the “Loan Parties”). The obligations under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement and the guarantees are secured by a lien on substantially all of the Loan Parties’ tangible and intangible property, and by a pledge of all of the shares of stock and limited liability company interests owned by the Loan Parties, of which the Loan Parties now own or later acquire more than a 50% interest, subject to certain exceptions.
	The obligations of the Borrower under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement are also secured by 13,796,685 common units of RNP owned by the Borrower, 3,114,439 of which are to be released upon the Borrower’s post-closing delivery of certain other collateral. We expect the 3.1 million units to be released no later than April 2, 2015. The Loans are subject to 2.00% original issue discount at the time of a draw.
	The A&R GSO Credit Agreement allows for dividends to be paid to the Company’s shareholders as long as there is no event of default and consent is given by GSO Capital.
	Amendment No. 1 to Subscription Agreement
	On February 12, 2015, the Company entered into the Subscription Amendment. Among others things, the parties amended the Subscription Agreement as follows:
	Call Right. At any time, subject to certain conditions, the Company may elect to repurchase all of the 2014 Preferred Stock the Series E Purchasers originally purchased under the Subscription Agreement (“Purchased Shares”) in exchange for (a) cash of $1,000 per Purchased Share (as adjusted for any stock splits, stock dividends, recapitalizations or the like), plus any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon and (b) warrants exercisable for the number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of shares of Common Stock into which such Series E Purchaser’s Purchased Shares are convertible (“Repurchase Warrants”). If issued, the Repurchase Warrants will have an exercise price equal to the conversion price of the Purchased Shares (the “Conversion Price”), which is $2.22 per share (subject to appropriate adjustment for stock splits, dividends, combinations, recapitalizations and the like).
	Additional Put Right. Upon the occurrence of an “RNP Change of Control,” each Series E Purchaser will have the right to cause the Company to purchase any or all of the outstanding Purchased Shares held by such Series E Purchaser for a price per Purchased Share equal to cash of $1,000 per Purchased Share (as adjusted for any stock splits, stock dividends, recapitalizations or the like), plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon. An “RNP Change of Control” generally is defined as (a) an event that constitutes a “Change of Control” as defined in the A&R GSO Credit Agreement that is not already a “Change of Control” under the Articles of Amendment of the Company setting forth the terms of the Purchased Shares, except that upon the repayment in full of the loans under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement, a sale, transfer, conveyance, encumbrance or other disposition of any capital stock or equity interests that constitutes collateral under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement will no longer be an “RNP Change of Control” or (b) any sale, transfer, conveyance, encumbrance (other than encumbrances created by the pledge agreement entered into by DSHC for the benefit of the Series E Purchasers) or other disposition by DSHC of any common units of RNP that are collateral under such pledge agreement to any person.
	Amended and Restated Put Option Agreements
	On February 12, 2015, DSHC entered into the A&R Put Option Agreements pursuant to which certain rights and obligations of the Put Option Agreements, dated April 9, 2014, among DSHC and each of the Series E Purchasers were amended. Among other things, the definition of a “Put Trigger Event” was expanded to include the failure of the Company to pay for the Purchased Shares under the additional put right upon an RNP Change of Control described above. In addition, the number of common units of RNP securing the obligations of DSHC under the A&R Put Option Agreements has been increased to 9,453,314 common units.
	Exploring Strategic Alternatives
	On February 17, 2015, RNP announced that its board has initiated a process to explore and evaluate potential strategic alternatives for the Partnership, which may include a sale of the Partnership, a merger with another party, a sale of some or all of its assets, or another strategic transaction. RNP has retained a financial advisor to assist with the strategic review process. There can be no assurance that this strategic review process will result in a transaction. As of December 31, 2014, the assets did not qualify as “held for sale”.
	Drax Amendment
	On February 25, 2015, the Company entered into an amendment (the “Amendment”) to the Drax Contract between Drax and Rentech’s wholly owned, indirect subsidiary, RTK WP Canada, ULC. The Amendment cancels all wood pellet deliveries in 2014 and reduces the required volume of wood pellets to be delivered to Drax in 2015 to 240,000 tonnes. In exchange for the cancelled deliveries and reduced volume commitments, the Company paid Drax a penalty of approximately $170,000 (which is reflected in the 2014 consolidated financial statements), and provide price reductions totaling approximately $0.9 million on pellet shipments made to Drax in 2015. In the event such shipments are not made, the price reductions will become cash penalties payable to Drax, in addition to other penalties that may be due under the Drax Agreement for such failed deliveries. Also, portions of the original 2015 pellet deliveries are being pushed to future years at 2015 pricing, which is expected to be lower than pricing under the original terms of the contract in those future years.

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
			Balance at		Charged to		Deductions and			Balance at
			Beginning		Expense		Write-Offs			End of Period
			of Period
			(in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31, 2014
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		$	—	$	500	$	—		$	500
	Deferred tax valuation account(1)		$	28,704	$	—	$	9,498		$	38,202
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Deferred tax valuation account		$	39,128	$	—	$	(10,424	)	$	28,704
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		$	100	$	—	$	(100	)	$	—
	Deferred tax valuation account		$	32,018	$	—	$	7,110		$	39,128
	Reserve for REN earn-out		$	697	$	—	$	(697	)	$	—
	-1	Includes a valuation allowance of $1,130 attributable to discontinued operations.

Summary_of_Certain_Significant1

Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	East Dubuque and Pasadena Policy
	Product sales revenues from the Fertilizer Facilities are recognized when customers take ownership upon shipment from the Fertilizer Facilities, the East Dubuque Facility’s leased facility or the Pasadena Facility’s distributors’ facilities and (i) customer assumes risk of loss, (ii) there are no uncertainties regarding customer acceptance, (iii) collection of the related receivable is probable, (iv) persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and (v) the sales price is fixed or determinable. Management assesses the business environment, the customer’s financial condition, historical collection experience, accounts receivable aging and customer disputes to determine whether collectability is reasonably assured. If collectability is not considered reasonably assured at the time of sale, the Company does not recognize revenue until collection occurs.
	Natural gas, though not typically purchased for the purpose of resale, is occasionally sold by the East Dubuque Facility when contracted quantities received are in excess of production and storage capacities, in which case the sales price is recorded in product sales and the related cost is recorded in cost of sales. Natural gas sales were $6.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, $3.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	East Dubuque Contracts
	RNLLC has a distribution agreement (the “Distribution Agreement”) with Agrium U.S.A., Inc. (“Agrium”). The Distribution Agreement is for a 10 year period, subject to renewal options. Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, Agrium is obligated to use commercially reasonable efforts to promote the sale of, and solicit and secure orders from its customers for nitrogen fertilizer products manufactured at the East Dubuque Facility, and to purchase from RNLLC nitrogen fertilizer products manufactured at the facility for prices to be negotiated in good faith from time to time. Under the Distribution Agreement, Agrium is appointed as the exclusive distributor for the sale, purchase and resale of nitrogen products manufactured at the East Dubuque Facility. Sale terms are negotiated and approved by RNLLC. Agrium bears the credit risk on products sold through Agrium pursuant to the Distribution Agreement. If an agreement is not reached on the terms and conditions of any proposed Agrium sale transaction, RNLLC has the right to sell to third parties provided the sale is on the same timetable and volumes and at a price not lower than the one proposed by Agrium. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Distribution Agreement accounted for 78%, 79% and 83%, respectively, of net revenues from product sales for the East Dubuque Facility. Receivables from Agrium accounted for 36% and 84% of the total accounts receivable balance of the East Dubuque Facility as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Agrium made more timely payments in 2014 than in 2013 which accounted for the lower percentage in 2014.
	RNLLC negotiates sales with other customers and these transactions are not subject to the terms of the Distribution Agreement.
	Under the Distribution Agreement, the East Dubuque Facility pays commissions to Agrium not to exceed $5 million during each contract year on applicable gross sales during the first 10 years of the agreement. The effective commission rate for the year ended December 31, 2014 was 3.4%, 3.6% for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2.7% for the year ended December 31, 2012. The commission expense was recorded in cost of sales for all periods.
	Pasadena Contracts
	RNPLLC sells substantially all of its products through marketing and distribution agreements. Pursuant to an exclusive marketing agreement RNPLLC has entered into with Interoceanic Corporation (“IOC”), IOC has the exclusive right and obligation to market and sell all of the Pasadena Facility’s ammonium sulfate product. Under the marketing agreement, IOC is required to use commercially reasonable efforts to market the product to obtain the most advantageous price. RNPLLC compensates IOC for transportation and storage costs relating to the ammonium sulfate product it markets through the pricing structure under the marketing agreement. The marketing agreement has a term that ends December 31, 2016, but automatically renews for subsequent one-year periods (unless either party delivers a termination notice to the other party at least 210 days prior to an automatic renewal). The marketing agreement may be terminated prior to its stated term for specified causes. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and the period beginning November 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012, the marketing agreement with IOC accounted for 100% of the Pasadena Facility’s revenues from the sale of ammonium sulfate. In addition, RNPLLC has an arrangement with IOC that permits RNPLLC to store approximately 60,000 tons of ammonium sulfate at IOC-controlled terminals, which are located near end customers of the Pasadena Facility’s ammonium sulfate. This arrangement currently is not governed by a written contract. RNPLLC also has marketing and distribution agreements to sell other products that automatically renew for successive one year periods.
	Fulghum Fibres Contracts
	Tolling and Offtake Arrangements – Fulghum has wood chip processing and wood yard operation agreements, which contain embedded leases for accounting purposes. This generally occurs when the agreement designates a specific chip mill or pellet plant in which the buyer purchases substantially all of the output and does not otherwise meet a fixed price per unit of output exception. The Company determined that these are operating leases.
	A tolling and offtake agreement that does not contain a lease may be classified as a derivative subject to a normal purchase and sale exception, in which case the agreement is classified as an executory contract and accounted for on an accrual basis. Tolling and offtake agreements, and components of these agreements that do not meet the above classifications, are accounted for on an accrual basis.
	For sales which are not accounted for as operating leases as described above, the Company recognizes revenue at the time the service is provided or when customers take ownership upon shipment from the facilities of the chips or bark and assumes risk of loss, collection of the related receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. Revenues associated with tolling arrangements are included in service revenues and sales of product under offtake agreements are included in product sales in our consolidated statements of operations.
	Wood Pellets: Industrial
	The Company recognizes revenue at the time when customers take ownership upon shipment of the pellets and assumes risk of loss, collection of the related receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable.
	Wood Pellets: NEWP
	The Company recognizes revenue at the time when customers take ownership upon shipment from the facilities of the pellets and assumes risk of loss, collection of the related receivable is probable, persuasive evidence of a sale arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. Two customers accounted for 40% of NEWP’s total sales for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Deferred Revenue	Deferred Revenue
	A significant portion of the revenue recognized during any period may be related to prepaid contracts or products stored at distributor facilities, for which cash was collected during an earlier period, with the result that a significant portion of revenue recognized during a period may not generate cash receipts during that period. As of December 31, 2014 deferred revenue was $28.6 million and $21.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. At the East Dubuque Facility, the Company records a liability for deferred revenue to the extent that payment has been received under prepaid contracts, which create obligations for delivery of product within a specified period of time in the future. The terms of these prepaid contracts require payment in advance of delivery. At the Pasadena Facility, our distributor pre-pays a portion of the sales price for shipments received into its storage facilities which is recorded as deferred revenue. The Company recognizes revenue related to the prepaid contracts or products stored at distributor facilities and relieves the liability for deferred revenue when products are shipped (including shipments to end customers from distributor facilities).
Cost of Sales	Cost of Sales
	Cost of sales are comprised of manufacturing costs related to the Company’s fertilizer products and processing costs for services. Cost of sales expenses include direct materials (such as natural gas, ammonia, sulfur and sulfuric acid), direct labor, indirect labor, employee fringe benefits, depreciation on plant machinery, electricity and other costs, including shipping and handling charges incurred to transport products sold.
	Cost of sales are also comprised of manufacturing costs related to the Company’s wood pellet products and processing costs for services. Cost of sales expenses include direct materials (such as wood and packaging materials), direct labor, indirect labor, employee fringe benefits, depreciation on plant machinery, electricity and other costs, including freight charges incurred to transport products sold related to freight revenues.
	The Company enters into short-term contracts to purchase physical supplies of natural gas in fixed quantities at both fixed and indexed prices. The Company anticipates that it will physically receive the contract quantities and use them in the production of fertilizer. The Company believes it is probable that the counterparties will fulfill their contractual obligations when executing these contracts. Natural gas purchases, including the cost of transportation to the East Dubuque Facility, are recorded at the point of delivery into the pipeline system.
Accounting for Derivative Instruments	Accounting for Derivative Instruments
	Accounting guidance establishes accounting and reporting requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. This guidance requires recognition of all derivative instruments as assets or liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and measurement of those instruments at fair value. The accounting treatment of changes in fair value is dependent upon whether or not a derivative instrument is designated as a hedge and if so, the type of hedge. The Company currently does not designate any of its derivatives as hedges for financial accounting purposes. Gains and losses on derivative instruments not designated as hedges are currently included in earnings and reported under cash flows from operating activities.
Cash	Cash
	The Company has checking and savings accounts with major financial institutions. At times balances with these institutions may be in excess of federally insured limits.
Accounts and Other Receivables	Accounts and Other Receivables
	Trade receivables are recorded at net realizable value. The allowance for doubtful accounts reflects the Company’s best estimate of probable losses inherent in the accounts receivable balance. The Company determines the allowance based on known troubled accounts, historical experience, and other currently available evidence. The Company reviews its allowance for doubtful accounts quarterly. Past due balances over 90 days and over a specified amount are reviewed individually for collectibility. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.
Inventories	Inventories
	Inventories consist of raw materials and finished goods. The primary raw material used by the East Dubuque Facility in the production of its nitrogen products is natural gas. The primary raw materials used by the Pasadena Facility in the production of its products are ammonia and sulfur. Raw materials also include certain chemicals used in the manufacturing process. Fulghum Fibres’ raw materials inventory consists of purchased roundwood to be chipped at its South American mills. Finished goods include the products stored at the Fertilizer Facilities that are ready for shipment along with any inventory that may be stored at remote facilities, and Fulghum Fibres’ processed wood chips. Raw materials at the wood pellet facilities primarily consist of wood fibre. Raw materials at NEWP primarily consist of wood chips and sawdust procured from third parties, and packaging materials. Inventories on the consolidated balance sheets included depreciation in the amount of $2.1 million at December 31, 2014 and $1.2 million at December 31, 2013.
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or estimated net realizable value. The cost of inventories is determined using the first-in first-out method. The estimated net realizable value is based on customer orders, market trends and historical pricing. On at least a quarterly basis, the Company performs an analysis of its inventory balances to determine if the carrying amount of inventories exceeds its net realizable value. If the carrying amount exceeds the estimated net realizable value, the carrying amount is reduced to the estimated net realizable value. During turnarounds at the East Dubuque and Pasadena Facilities, the Company allocates fixed production overhead costs to inventory based on the normal capacity of its production facilities and unallocated overhead costs are recognized as expense in the period incurred.
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation expense is generally calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
	Type of Asset		Estimated Useful Life
	Land improvements		5-20 years
	Building and building improvements		4-40 years
	Machinery and equipment		7-22 years
	Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		3-10 years
	Computer equipment and software		2-5 years
	Vehicles		2-15 years
	Leasehold improvements		Useful life or remaining lease term whichever is shorter
	Expenditures during turnarounds or at other times for improving, replacing or adding to RNP’s assets are capitalized. Expenditures for the acquisition, construction or development of new assets to maintain operating capacity, or to comply with environmental, health, safety or other regulations, are also capitalized. Costs of general maintenance and repairs are expensed.
	When property, plant and equipment is retired or otherwise disposed of, the asset and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in operating expenses.
	Spare parts are maintained by the facilities to reduce the length of possible interruptions in plant operations from an infrastructure breakdown at the facilities. The spare parts may be held for use for years before the spare parts are used. As a result, they are capitalized as a fixed asset at cost. When spare parts are utilized, the book values of the assets are charged to earnings as a cost of production. Periodically, the spare parts are evaluated for obsolescence and impairment and if the value of the spare parts is impaired, it is charged against earnings.
	Long-lived assets, construction in progress and identifiable intangible assets are reviewed whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the expected future cash flow from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized and measured using the asset’s fair value.
	The Company capitalizes certain direct development costs associated with internal-use software, including external direct costs of material and services, and payroll costs for employees devoting time to software implementation projects. Costs incurred during the preliminary project stage, as well as maintenance and training costs, are expensed as incurred.
	Asset Retirement Obligations:
	The Company has recorded asset retirement obligations (“AROs”) related to future costs associated with (i) the removal of contaminated material at the former phosphorous plant at the Pasadena Facility, (ii) disposal of asbestos at the East Dubuque Facility and (iii) removal of machinery and equipment at Fulghum mills on leased property. The fair value of a liability for an ARO is recorded in the period in which it is incurred and the cost of such liability increases the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset by the same amount. The liability is accreted each period through charges to operating expense and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset. The liability was $4.4 million at December 31, 2014 and $3.0 million at December 31, 2013.
	A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of the AROs is as follows:
	Balance at December 31, 2013		$	3,014
	Accretion expense			125
	Revisions in the estimated cash flows			1,265
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	4,404
Construction in Progress	Construction in Progress
	The Company tracks project development costs and capitalizes those costs after a project has completed the scoping phase and enters the feasibility phase. The most significant projects under construction are the Atikokan and Wawa Facilities at December 31, 2014. The Company also capitalizes costs for improvements to the existing machinery and equipment at the Fertilizer Facilities and certain costs associated with the Company’s information technology initiatives. Interest incurred on development and construction projects is capitalized until construction is complete. The Company does not depreciate construction in progress costs until the underlying assets are placed into service.
Acquisition Method of Accounting	Acquisition Method of Accounting
	The Company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires, among other things, that assets acquired, liabilities assumed and earn-out consideration be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date. The Company has recognized goodwill and intangibles related to its acquisitions as described in “Note 3 — NEWP Acquisition” and “Note 4 — Fulghum Acquisition”. The earn-out consideration will be measured at each reporting date with changes in its fair value recognized in the consolidated statements of operations.
Goodwill	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually, or more often if an event or circumstance indicates that an impairment may have occurred. The analysis of the potential impairment of goodwill is a two-step process. Step one of the impairment test consists of comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with the aggregate carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, step two must be performed to determine the amount, if any, of the goodwill impairment.
	There are significant assumptions involved in performing a goodwill impairment test, which include discount rates, terminal growth rates, future sales prices of end products, raw material costs, and sales volumes. The various valuation methods used (income approach, replacement cost and market approach) are weighted in determining fair value. Changes to any of these assumptions could increase or decrease the fair value of the Fulghum and NEWP reporting units. See Note 12 — Goodwill.
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets
	Intangible assets arose in conjunction with the NEWP Acquisition, Fulghum Acquisition and Agrifos Acquisition (See “Note 3 — NEWP Acquisition” and “Note 4 — Fulghum Acquisition” and Note 5 — Agrifos Acquisition). NEWP’s intangible assets consist of trade names, customer relationships and non-compete agreements. Fulghum’s intangible assets consist of trade names and processing agreements to provide services to its customers. Acquired trade names related to Fulghum were assessed as indefinite lived assets because there is no foreseeable limit on the period of time over which they are expected to contribute cash flows. Acquired trade names with indefinite lives are not amortized but are subject to an annual test for impairment and in between annual tests when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Acquired trade names related to NEWP are amortized over 20 years.
	Intangible assets consist of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
			2014			2013			Average Life
			(in thousands)
	Trade names		$	10,496		$	5,496			20 / Indefinite
	Wood chip processing agreements			29,765			29,765			17-Jan
	Off-take contract			2,577			2,811			10
	Technologies to produce fertilizers			23,680			23,680			20
	Fertilizer marketing agreements			3,088			3,088			1.5
	Customer relationships			1,900			—			13
	Non-competition agreements			200			—			3
	Intangibles, gross		$	71,706		$	64,840
	Less: accumulated amortization			(9,902	)		(5,110	)
	Intangibles, net		$	61,804		$	59,730
	At December 31, 2014, accumulated amortization for trade names, processing agreements, technologies, marketing agreements and customer relationships was $0.4 million, $4.2 million, $2.6 million, $3.1 million, and $(0.4) million, respectively. The amortization of the assets in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 will result in amortization expense of $5.5 million, $4.3 million, $3.3 million, $3.2 million and $3.1 million, respectively.
	We also have unfavorable processing agreements in the amount of $2.5 million related to Fulghum Acquisition, which are included in other liabilities both current and long term. These agreements along with processing agreements recorded in intangible assets are amortized over the economic life.
	Technologies to produce fertilizers consist of certain proprietary technological processes, technological functions, intellectual property, formulations, and trade secrets to produce commercial volumes of synthetic ammonium sulfate fertilizer.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	The Company accounts for income taxes under the liability method, which requires an entity to recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for temporary differences. Temporary differences are differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years. An income tax valuation allowance has been established to reduce the Company’s deferred tax asset to the amount that is expected to be realized in the future.
	The Company recognizes in its consolidated financial statements only those tax positions that are “more-likely-than-not” of being sustained, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company performs a comprehensive review of its material tax positions in accordance with the applicable guidance.
Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Allocated To Rentech	Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Allocated To Rentech
	Basic net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech is calculated by dividing net income (loss) allocated to Rentech by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech is calculated by dividing net income (loss) allocated to Rentech by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the dilutive effect, calculated using (i) the “treasury stock” method for the unvested restricted stock units, outstanding stock options and warrants and (ii) the “if converted” method for the preferred stock and convertible debt if their inclusion would not have been anti-dilutive.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation
	Assets and liabilities have been translated to the reporting currency using the exchange rates in effect on the consolidated balance sheet dates. Equity accounts are translated at historical rates, except for the change in retained earnings during the year which is the result of the income statement translation process. A portion of the intercompany balances between the Parent and certain foreign subsidiaries are classified as a long term investment because the Company does not intend to settle such accounts in the foreseeable future. Revenue and expense accounts are translated using the weighted average exchange rate during the period. The cumulative translation adjustments associated with the net assets of foreign subsidiaries are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the accompanying consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Comprehensive income (loss) includes all changes in consolidated stockholders’ equity during the period from non-owner sources. To date, accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is primarily comprised of adjustments to the defined benefit pension plans and the postretirement benefit plans and foreign currency translation.
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss is $7.3 million and $0.1 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The balance at December 31, 2014 is comprised of foreign currency transaction adjustments of $(7.3) million and pension and post-retirement plan adjustments of $4,000. The balance at December 31, 2013 is comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments of $(0.9) million and pension and post-retirement plan adjustments of $0.8 million. Activity for the years ending December 31, 2014 and 2013 are reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss). The balance of the components as of December 31, 2012 are not material. There were no material amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income in any of the three years ending December 31, 2014.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued guidance as to when an unrecognized tax benefit should be classified as a reduction of a deferred tax asset or when it should be classified as a liability in the consolidated balance sheets. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013, and thus became effective for the Company’s interim period beginning on January 1, 2014. The adoption of this guidance did not have any impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or disclosures.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued guidance that provides a narrower definition of discontinued operations than under previous guidance. It requires that only disposals of components of an entity (or groups of components) that represent a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on the reporting entity’s operations are to be reported in the financial statements as discontinued operations. It also provides guidance on the financial statement presentations and disclosures of discontinued operations. This guidance is effective prospectively for disposals (or classifications of held-for-sale) of components of an entity that occur in annual or interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The impact of this guidance is dependent on whether or not future disposals occur.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance that will significantly enhance comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is not permitted. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued guidance on accounting for share-based payments when the terms of an award provide that a performance target could be achieved after the requisite service period. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance on presentation of financial statements – going concern, which applies to all companies. It requires management to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. This guidance is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
	In November 2014, the FASB issued guidance on hybrid financial instruments. The guidance does not change the current criteria for determining when separation of certain embedded derivative features in a hybrid financial instrument is required. The guidance clarifies that an entity should consider all relevant terms and features, including the embedded derivative feature being evaluated for bifurcation, in evaluating the nature of the host contract. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
	In January 2015, the FASB issued guidance, which eliminates the concept of extraordinary items. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. The Company is evaluating the provisions of this guidance and the potential impact, if any, on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and disclosures.
Fair value measurement	Accounting guidance provides for a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value in three broad levels. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). In some cases, the inputs used to measure fair value might fall in different levels of the fair value hierarchy. All assets and liabilities are required to be classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Assessing the significance of a particular input may require judgment in considering factors specific to the asset or liability, and may affect the valuation of the asset or liability and its placement within the fair value hierarchy. The Company classifies fair value balances based on the fair value hierarchy, defined as follows:
		•		Level 1 — Consists of unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access as of the reporting date.
		•		Level 2 — Consists of inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are directly observable for the asset or liability or indirectly observable through corroboration with observable market data.
		•		Level 3 — Consists of unobservable inputs for assets or liabilities whose fair value is estimated based on internally developed models or methodologies using inputs that are generally less readily observable and supported by little, if any, market activity at the measurement date. Unobservable inputs are developed based on the best available information and subject to cost-benefit constraints.
	Fair values of cash, receivables, deposits, other current assets, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other current liabilities were assumed to approximate carrying value since they are short term and can be settled on demand.
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Acquisition Method of Accounting	This business combination has been accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires, among other things, that assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date.

Summary_of_Certain_Significant2

Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment Stated at Cost Less Accumulated Depreciation	Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation expense is generally calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
	Type of Asset	Estimated Useful Life
	Land improvements	5-20 years
	Building and building improvements	4-40 years
	Machinery and equipment	7-22 years
	Furniture, fixtures and office equipment	3-10 years
	Computer equipment and software	2-5 years
	Vehicles	2-15 years
	Leasehold improvements	Useful life or remaining lease term whichever is shorter
Reconciliation of Change in Carrying Value of AROs	A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of the AROs is as follows:
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	3,014
	Accretion expense		125
	Revisions in the estimated cash flows		1,265
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	4,404
Summary of Intangible Assets	Intangible assets consist of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
		2014			2013			Average Life
		(in thousands)
	Trade names	$	10,496		$	5,496			20 / Indefinite
	Wood chip processing agreements		29,765			29,765			17-Jan
	Off-take contract		2,577			2,811			10
	Technologies to produce fertilizers		23,680			23,680			20
	Fertilizer marketing agreements		3,088			3,088			1.5
	Customer relationships		1,900			—			13
	Non-competition agreements		200			—			3
	Intangibles, gross	$	71,706		$	64,840
	Less: accumulated amortization		(9,902	)		(5,110	)
	Intangibles, net	$	61,804		$	59,730

Acquisition_Tables

Acquisition (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Purchase Price	The purchase price consisted of the following (amounts in thousands):
	Cash (through borrowings under a previous credit agreement) less working capital adjustments		$	136,308
	Fair market value of 538,793 Common Units issued			20,000
	Estimate of potential earn-out consideration(1)			4,920
	Total purchase price		$	161,228
	-1	The amount of earn-out consideration reflected in the table above reflects the Company’s estimate, as of November 1, 2012, of the amount of the earn-out consideration RNP will be required to pay pursuant to the Agrifos Purchase Agreement, as defined in Note 8 — Fair Value. The earn-out consideration was measured at each reporting date with changes in its fair value recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2013, the fair value of the potential earn-out consideration was $0.
Fulghum [Member]
Final Purchase Price Allocation	This business combination has been accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. The Company’s final purchase price allocation is as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	10,137
	Accounts receivable			3,936
	Inventories			2,389
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			952
	Other receivables, net			5,435
	Property, plant and equipment			94,382
	Intangible assets (trade name—$5,496 and processing agreements—$29,765)			35,261
	Goodwill			29,932
	Other assets			2,974
	Accounts payable			(6,547	)
	Accrued liabilities			(5,823	)
	Customer deposits			(1,059	)
	Asset retirement obligation			(178	)
	Credit facility and loans			(61,865	)
	Unfavorable processing agreements			(6,496	)
	Deferred income taxes			(35,262	)
	Noncontrolling interests			(4,000	)
	Total purchase price		$	64,168
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Final Purchase Price Allocation	RNP’s final purchase price allocation is as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	2,622
	Accounts receivable			3,204
	Inventories			30,373
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			566
	Property, plant and equipment			68,688
	Construction in progress			7,011
	Intangible assets (technology—$23,680 and marketing agreement—$3,088)			26,768
	Goodwill			57,231
	Other assets			73
	Accounts payable			(10,638	)
	Accrued liabilities			(6,640	)
	Customer deposits			(13,301	)
	Asset retirement obligation			(2,776	)
	Other long-term liabilities			(1,953	)
	Total purchase price		$	161,228
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Final Purchase Price Allocation	The Company’s preliminary purchase price allocation is as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	3,852
	Accounts receivable			2,925
	Inventories			2,239
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			439
	Property, plant and equipment			30,625
	Intangible assets (trade name—$5,000, customer relationships—$1,900, and non-compete agreements—$200)			7,100
	Goodwill			8,461
	Accounts payable			(1,641	)
	Accrued liabilities			(442	)
	Customer deposits			(882	)
	Loans			(12,600	)
	Interest rate swaps			(802	)
	Total preliminary purchase price		$	39,274
As Reported [Member] | Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Purchase Price	The preliminary purchase price recognized in our financial statements consisted of the following (amounts in thousands):
	Cash		$	35,434
	Estimate of expected earn-out consideration(1)			3,840
	Total preliminary purchase price		$	39,274
	-1	The amount of earn-out consideration reflected in the table above reflects the Company’s estimate, as of May 1, 2014, of the amount of the earn-out consideration it will be required to pay pursuant to the NEWP Purchase Agreement. The earn-out consideration will be measured at each reporting date; changes in its fair value will be recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2014, the earn-out consideration of $5.0 million was earned, and will be paid in 2015.

Pro_Forma_Information_Tables

Pro Forma Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]
Pro Forma Information	The unaudited pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of the results that the Company would have achieved had the transactions actually taken place on January 1, 2012 or January 1, 2013, and the unaudited pro forma information does not purport to be indicative of future financial operating results.
			For the Year Ended
			December 31, 2014
			As Reported			Pro Forma			Pro Forma
						Adjustments
			(in thousands)
	Revenues		$	472,661		$	14,329		$	486,990
	Net income (loss)		$	(32,504	)	$	1,330		$	(31,174	)
	Net loss attributable to Rentech		$	(35,850	)	$	1,330		$	(34,520	)
	Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech		$	(0.19	)	$	0.01		$	(0.18	)
			For the Calendar Year Ended
			December 31, 2013
			As Reported			Pro Forma			Pro Forma
						Adjustments
			(in thousands)
	Revenues		$	374,349		$	80,399		$	454,748
	Net income (loss)(1)		$	38		$	(24,292	)	$	(24,254	)
	Net loss attributable to Rentech		$	(1,532	)	$	(24,427	)	$	(25,959	)
	Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech		$	0.02		$	(0.10	)	$	(0.08	)
			For the Calendar Year Ended
			December 31, 2012
			As Reported			Pro Forma			Pro Forma
						Adjustments
			(in thousands)
	Revenues		$	261,635		$	226,346		$	487,981
	Net income(1)		$	27,687		$	29,137		$	56,824
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech		$	(14,000	)	$	29,573		$	15,573
	Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech		$	0.1		$	0.13		$	0.23
	-1	As discussed in Note 21 — Income Taxes, during the year ended December 31, 2013, there was a release of a valuation allowance resulting from recording deferred tax liabilities from the Fulghum Acquisition. Since the pro forma information is presented as if the transaction had taken place on January 1, 2012, the release of the valuation allowance is included in the pro forma results for the calendar year ended December 31, 2012 and excluded from the pro forma results for the calendar year ended December 31, 2013.

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures	The following table summarizes the components of assets and liabilities of discontinued operations.
		As of
		December, 31
		2014		2013
		(in thousands)
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	305	$	19
	Other receivables		—		—
	Total current assets	$	305	$	19
	Property held for sale	$	1,677	$	4,647
	Deposits and other assets		—		4
	Total other assets	$	1,677	$	4,651
	Total assets	$	1,982	$	4,670
	Accounts payable	$	144	$	151
	Accrued payroll and benefits		559		356
	Accrued liabilities		1,008		1,496
	Other		—		—
	Total liabilities	$	1,711	$	2,003
	The following table summarizes the results of discontinued operations.
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Revenues	$	322	$	506		$	290
	Operating income (loss)	$	6,053	$	(7,001	)	$	(42,114	)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	7,259	$	(6,606	)	$	(37,376	)

Fair_Value_Tables

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosure	The following table presents the financial instruments that were accounted for at fair value by level as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
		(in thousands)
	Liabilities
	Earn-out consideration—2014	$	—		$	—		$	1,295
	Earn-out consideration—2013	$	—		$	—		$	1,544
Fair Value and Carrying Value of Borrowings and Interest Rate Swaps	The following table presents the fair value and carrying value of the Company’s borrowings as of December 31, 2014.
		Fair Value								Carrying
										Value
		(in thousands)
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Liabilities
	RNP Notes	$	310,202		$	—		$	—	$	320,000
	Fulghum debt		—			53,192			—		54,771
	NEWP debt		—			10,968			—		11,265
	GSO Credit Agreement		—			50,000			—		49,142
	GE Credit Agreement		—			15,000			—		15,000
	The following table presents the fair value and carrying value of the Company’s borrowings as of December 31, 2013.
		Fair Value								Carrying
										Value
		(in thousands)
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Liabilities
	RNP Notes	$	318,400		$	—		$	—	$	320,000
	Fulghum debt		—			45,970			—		47,452
	RNHI Revolving Loan		—			50,000			—		50,000
Reconciliation of the Change in the Carrying Value of Earn-out Consideration	A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of the earn-out consideration is as follows:
		Agrifos			Atikokan			NEWP		Total
		(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	4,920		$	—		$	—	$	4,920
	Add: Earn-out consideration		—			1,850			—		1,850
	Add: Unrealized (gain) loss		(4,920	)		(202	)		—		(5,122	)
	Add: Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation		—			(104	)		—		(104	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	—		$	1,544		$	—	$	1,544
	Add: Earn-out consideration		—			—			3,840		3,840
	Add: Unrealized (gain) loss		—			(127	)		1,160		1,033
	Add: Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation		—			(122	)		—		(122	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	—		$	1,295		$	5,000	$	6,295

Derivative_Instruments_Tables

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Net Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Swaps	Net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps:
		For the Years Ended
		December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Realized loss	$	—	$	(24	)	$	(22	)
	Unrealized gain (loss)		172		17			(929	)
	Total net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	$	172	$	(7	)	$	(951	)
Forward Natural Gas Contracts and Interest Rate Swaps Recorded in Accrued Liabilities and Other Liabilities	The forward natural gas contracts are recorded in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The interest rate swaps are recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
		Current
		Liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Forward natural gas contracts:
	Gross amounts recognized	$	3,955
	Gross amounts offset in consolidated balance sheets		—
	Net amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets	$	3,955
		Current
		Liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Interest rate swaps:
	Gross amounts recognized	$	653
	Gross amounts offset in consolidated balance sheets		—
	Net amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets	$	653
Schedule of Financial Instruments at Fair Value	The following table presents the financial instruments that were accounted for at fair value by level as of December 31, 2014:
		Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
		(in thousands)
	Liabilities
	Forward gas contracts	$	—	$	3,955		$	—
	Interest rate swaps		—		653			—

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014		2013
		(in thousands)
	Finished goods	$	26,669	$	27,638
	Raw materials		11,226		7,448
	Other		190		290
	Total inventory	$	38,085	$	35,376

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	Land and land improvements	$	28,042		$	26,149
	Buildings and building improvements		45,516			33,096
	Machinery and equipment		406,489			334,645
	Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		1,610			1,123
	Computer equipment and computer software		8,748			7,977
	Vehicles		5,893			4,624
	Leasehold improvements		2,405			2,348
	Other		1,453			210
			500,156			410,172
	Less: Accumulated depreciation		(107,705	)		(75,518	)
	Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	392,451		$	334,654
Construction in Progress	Construction in progress consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	East Dubuque Facility		15,010			2,195
	Pasadena Facility		32,747			31,335
	Fulghum Fibres		7,197			273
	Atikokan Project		36,931			8,458
	Wawa Project		65,232			11,809
	Construction under QS Construction Facility		21,712			5,198
	Other		594			868
	Total construction in progress	$	179,423		$	60,136

Goodwill_Tables

Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Change in Carrying Value of Goodwill	A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of goodwill is as follows:
		Pasadena			Fulghum		NEWP		Total
		(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	56,592		$	—	$	—	$	56,592
	Add: Acquisition		—			29,932		—		29,932
	Add: Increase		639			—		—		639
	Less: Impairment		(30,029	)		—		—		(30,029	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	27,202		$	29,932	$	—	$	57,134
	Add: Acquisition		—			—		8,461		8,461
	Less: Impairment		(27,202	)		—		—		(27,202	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	—		$	29,932	$	8,461	$	38,393

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Total Debt	As of December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the RNP Notes, Fulghum debt, GSO Credit Agreement, NEWP debt, RNP Credit Agreement, GE Credit Agreement and BMO Credit Agreement. Total debt consisted of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	RNP Notes	$	320,000		$	320,000
	QS Construction Facility		18,679			4,527
	Fulghum debt		53,179			45,290
	RNHI Revolving Loan		—			50,000
	GSO Credit Agreement		50,000			—
	NEWP debt		10,913			—
	GE Credit Agreement		15,000			—
	Total debt	$	467,771		$	419,817
	Plus: Unamortized net premium		1,085			2,162
	Less: Current portion		(17,260	)		(9,270	)
	Less: Current portion unamortized premium		(524	)		(646	)
	Long-term debt	$	451,072		$	412,063
Future Maturities of Long-term Debt	Future maturities of total debt are as follows (in thousands):
	For the Years Ending December 31
	2015	$	17,260
	2016		9,634
	2017		8,123
	2018		5,710
	2019		70,369
	Thereafter		356,675
		$	467,771

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments for Natural Gas Purchases	Commitments for natural gas purchases consist of the following:
		As of December 31,
		2014		2013
		(in thousands, except weighted average rate)
	MMBtus under fixed-price contracts		3,188		2,071
	MMBtus under index-price contracts		540		81
	Total MMBtus under contracts		3,728		2,152
	Commitments to purchase natural gas	$	15,568	$	8,571
	Weighted average rate per MMBtu based on the fixed rates and the indexes applicable to each contract	$	4.18	$	3.98
Summary of Future Minimum Lease Payments	Future minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	For the Years Ending December 31,
	2015	$	7,318
	2016		6,642
	2017		4,350
	2018		3,380
	2019 and thereafter		16,893
		$	38,583

Preferred_Stock_Tables

Preferred Stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Mezzanine Equity	Mezzanine equity at December 31, 2014 consisted of the following (in thousands):
	Original issue price of 2014 Preferred Stock	$	100,000
	Less: Issuance costs		(3,144	)
	Less: Unamortized discount		(1,796	)
	Total mezzanine equity	$	95,060

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Performance Shares and Restricted Stock Units Issued by the Company	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company issued the following performance shares and restricted stock units:
		Number of Awards
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Type of Award
	Performance awards		5,564,000		3,005,000		1,963,000
	Time-vested awards		521,000		1,994,000		1,136,000
	Total		6,085,000		4,999,000		3,099,000

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co1

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Charges Associated with All Equity Based Grants	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with all equity-based grants were recorded as follows:
		For the Years Ended
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Compensation expense	$	4,658		$	5,319		$	7,357
	Board compensation expense		872			603			591
	Total compensation expense		5,530			5,922			7,948
	Consulting expense		—			18			74
	Total expense	$	5,530		$	5,940		$	8,022
	Reduction to both basic and diluted earnings per share from compensation expense	$	0.02		$	0.03		$	0.04
Fair Value of Options and Warrants	The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the weighted average fair value of options and warrants. The assumptions utilized to determine the fair value of options and warrants are indicated in the following table:
		For the Year Ended
		December 31,
		2014
	Risk-free interest rate		1.28% - 1.65	%
	Expected volatility		54.5% - 57.3	%
	Expected life (in years)		3.58 - 4.41
	Dividend yield		0	%
	Forfeiture rate		0 - 22	%
Number of Shares Reserved, Outstanding and Available for Issuance	The number of shares reserved, outstanding and available for issuance are as follows:
		Shares Reserved			Shares Underlying					Shares Available for Issuance
		as of December 31,			Outstanding Awards as of					as of December 31,
					December 31,
		2014			2014			2013		2014		2013
		(in thousands)
	Name of Plan
	2005 Stock Option Plan		1,000			210			195		—		—
	2006 Incentive Award Plan:
	Stock options		8,000			1,368			1,338		—		—
	Restricted stock units and performance share awards					—			1,322		—		—
	2009 Incentive Award Plan:
	Stock options		39,217			1,438			1,713		12,285		4,483
	Restricted stock units and performance share awards					8,286			9,991		—		—
	Adjustment for Special Distribution		312			—			244		—		—
			48,529			11,302			14,803		12,285		4,483
	Restricted stock units not from a plan		3,119			3,119			17		—		—
			51,648			14,421			14,820		12,285		4,483
Equity Option [Member]
Charges Associated with Equity Based Compensation	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with stock option grants were recorded as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Compensation expense	$	39		$	516		$	658
	Board compensation expense		17			—			—
	Total compensation expense		56			516			658
	Consulting expense		—			18			22
	Total expense	$	56		$	534		$	680
Equity Based Compensation Transactions	Option transactions during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
		Number of			Weighted			Aggregate
		Shares			Average			Intrinsic
					Exercise			Value
					Price
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011		4,672,000		$	1.64
	Granted		—			—
	Exercised		(276,000	)		1.1
	Canceled / Expired		(236,000	)		1.89
	Adjustment for Special Distribution		312,000
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012		4,472,000			1.67		$	5,848,000
	Granted		—			—
	Exercised		(711,000	)		1.03
	Canceled / Expired		(271,000	)		2.4
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013		3,490,000		$	1.59		$	2,144,448
	Granted		1,122,000			1.25
	Exercised		(393,000	)		1.17
	Canceled / Expired		(100,000	)		0.89
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014		4,119,000		$	1.55		$	784,931
	Options exercisable at December 31, 2014		3,017,000		$	1.67		$	762,882
	Options exercisable at December 31, 2013		3,436,000		$	1.6
	Options exercisable at December 31, 2012		3,485,000		$	1.73
	Weighted average fair value of options granted during the year ended December 31, 2014				$	0.53
Summary of Options and Warrants Outstanding and Exercisable	The following information summarizes stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014:
		Outstanding								Exercisable
	Range of Exercise Prices	Number			Weighted Average			Weighted		Number		Weighted
		Outstanding			Remaining			Average		Exercisable		Average
					Contractual Life			Exercise				Exercise
					in Years			Price				Price
	$0.50-$0.92		1,955,000			3.6		$	0.88		1,955,000	$	0.88
	$0.96-$1.00		27,000			6.49			0.96		27,000		0.96
	$1.12-$1.81		1,360,000			4.66			1.25		258,000		1.31
	$2.07-$2.50		32,000			2.31			2.07		32,000		2.07
	$3.50		21,000			1.95			3.5		21,000		3.5
	$3.87-$4.00		724,000			1.14			3.88		724,000		3.88
			4,119,000			3.52		$	1.55		3,017,000	$	1.67
Warrants [Member]
Equity Based Compensation Transactions	Warrant transactions during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
		Number of			Weighted
		Shares			Average
					Exercise
					Price
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011		10,424,000		$	1.96
	Granted		—			—
	Vested		—			—
	Exercised		(5,156,000	)		1.27
	Canceled / Expired		(4,018,000	)		3.28
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012		1,250,000		$	0.57
	Granted		—			—
	Vested		—			—
	Exercised		—			—
	Canceled / Expired		—			—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013		1,250,000		$	0.57
	Granted		—			—
	Vested		—			—
	Exercised		—			—
	Canceled / Expired		—			—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014		1,250,000		$	0.57
	Warrants exercisable at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012		1,250,000		$	0.57
Summary of Options and Warrants Outstanding and Exercisable	The following information summarizes warrants outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014:
		Outstanding								Exercisable
	Range of Exercise Prices	Number			Weighted Average			Weighted		Number		Weighted
		Outstanding			Remaining			Average		Exercisable		Average
					Contractual Life			Exercise				Exercise
					in Years			Price				Price
	$0.57		1,250,000			N/A		$	0.57		1,250,000	$	0.57
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member]
Charges Associated with Equity Based Compensation	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with RSUs and Performance Share Award grants were recorded as follows:
		For the Years Ended
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Compensation expense	$	4,619		$	4,803		$	6,699
	Board compensation expense		504			202			190
	Total compensation expense	$	5,123		$	5,005		$	6,889
Equity Based Compensation Transactions	RSU and Performance Share Award transactions during the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
		Number of			Weighted			Aggregate
		Shares			Average			Intrinsic
					Grant Date			Value
					Fair Value
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011		11,888,000			1.37
	Granted		3,099,000			2.55
	Vested and Settled in Shares		(2,080,000	)		1.35
	Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(975,000	)		1.4
	Canceled / Expired		(931,000	)		1.37
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012		11,001,000			1.71		$	28,934,000
	Granted		4,999,000			1.66
	Vested and Settled in Shares		(2,680,000	)		1.49
	Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(1,812,000	)		1.37
	Canceled / Expired		(178,000	)		2.18
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013		11,330,000			1.76		$	23,793,000
	Granted		6,085,000			1.88
	Vested and Settled in Shares		(1,500,000	)		1.87
	Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(688,000	)		1.82
	Canceled / Expired		(5,025,000	)		1.16
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014		10,202,000			1.28		$	12,845,706
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member] | 2011 LTIP [Member]
Charges Associated with Equity Based Compensation	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, charges associated with all equity-based grants issued by RNP under the 2011 LTIP were recorded as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Stock based compensation expense	$	1,283		$	1,460		$	2,827
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member]
Equity Based Compensation Transactions	Phantom unit transactions during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are summarized as follows:
		Number of			Weighted			Aggregate
		Shares			Average			Intrinsic
					Grant Date			Value
					Fair Value
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011		163,388			18.4
	Granted		54,059			34.86
	Vested and Settled in Shares		(42,350	)		(15.68	)
	Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(20,040	)		(18.40	)
	Canceled / Expired		(119	)		(18.40	)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012		154,938		$	23.78		$	5,839,626
	Granted		116,508			18.71
	Vested and Settled in Shares		(49,409	)		(23.42	)
	Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(27,127	)		(21.75	)
	Canceled / Expired		(1,278	)		(35.14	)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013		193,632		$	20.97		$	3,407,929
	Granted		160,088			10.93
	Vested and Settled in Shares		(83,471	)		(20.68	)
	Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable		(35,342	)		(20.91	)
	Canceled / Expired		(15,049	)		(24.79	)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014		219,858		$	11.33		$	2,310,711

Future_Minimum_Lease_Receipts_

Future Minimum Lease Receipts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Minimum Future Rentals on Noncancelable Operating Leases	The following is a schedule by years of minimum future rentals on non-cancelable operating leases as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
	For the Years Ending December 31,
	2015	$	28,887
	2016		25,201
	2017		21,392
	2018		15,280
	2019		11,425
		$	102,185

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Summary of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligation	The following tables summarize the projected benefit obligation, the assets and the funded status of the Pension Plans and the Postretirement Plan at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
		As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013
		Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
		(in thousands)
	Projected benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	4,505		$	853		$	4,841		$	1,136
	Service cost		106			35			137			43
	Interest cost		213			37			194			43
	Actuarial (gain) loss		1,125			93			(528	)		(233	)
	Actual benefit paid		(153	)		(91	)		(139	)		(136	)
	Benefit obligation at end of year		5,796			927			4,505			853
	Fair value of plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		4,927			—			4,333			—
	Actual return on plan assets		251			—			624			—
	Employer contributions		—			91			109			136
	Actual benefit paid		(153	)		(91	)		(139	)		(136	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year		5,025			—			4,927			—
	Funded status at end of year		(771	)		(927	)		422			(853	)
	Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet
	Noncurrent assets	$			$	—		$	422		$	—
	Current liabilities		—			(81	)		—			(86	)
	Noncurrent liabilities		(771	)		(846	)		—			(767	)
		$	(771	)		(927	)	$	422			(853	)
Summary of Net Periodic Benefit Cost and Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income	The components of net periodic benefit cost and other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income are as follows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
		For the Year						For the Year						For the Year
		Ended December 31, 2014						Ended December 31, 2013						Ended December 31, 2012
		Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
		(in thousands)
	Net periodic benefit cost
	Service cost	$	107		$	35		$	137		$	43		$	29		$	4
	Interest cost		213			37			194			43			31			5
	Expected return on plan assets		(290	)		—			(260	)		—			(42	)		—
	Amortization of prior service cost		—			22			—			22			—			—
	Amortization of net gain		(54	)		—			(5	)		—			—			—
	Recognized gain		—			(16	)		—			—			—			—
	Net periodic pension costs	$	(24	)	$	78		$	66		$	108		$	18		$	9
	Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income
	Net actuarial (gain) loss	$	1,163		$	93		$	(893	)	$	(233	)	$	(444	)	$	(54	)
	Recognized actuarial gain		54			16			5			—			—			—
	Prior service cost		—			—			—			—			—			332
	Recognized prior service cost		—			(22	)		—			(22	)		—			—
	Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss	$	1,217		$	87		$	(888	)	$	(255	)	$	(444	)	$	278
Summary of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Not Yet Recognized in Net Periodic Cost	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 consists of the following amounts that have not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost:
		As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013						As of December 31, 2012
		Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
		(in thousands)
	Net gain	$	(114	)	$	(178	)	$	(1,332	)	$	(287	)	$	(444	)	$	(54	)
	Prior service cost		—			287			—			310			—			332
		$	(114	)	$	109		$	(1,332	)	$	23		$	(444	)	$	278
Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations	Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations:
		As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013						As of December 31, 2012
		Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
	Discount rate		4	%		3.9	%		4.8	%		4.7	%		4.1	%		4	%
Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Pension Cost	Weighted average assumptions used to determine net pension cost:
		For the Year						For the Year						For the Year
		Ended December 31, 2014						Ended December 31, 2013						Ended December 31, 2012
		Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement			Pension			Postretirement
	Discount rate		4.8	%		4.7	%		4.1	%		4	%		3.6	%		3.6	%
	Expected rate of return on assets		6	%		N/A			6	%		N/A			6	%		N/A
		Postretirement
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Health care cost trend: initial		9	%		7.25	%		7.5	%
	Health care cost trend: ultimate		5	%		5	%		5	%
	Year ultimate reached		2025			2023			2023
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	As the Postretirement Plan provides a fixed dollar amount to participants, increasing or decreasing the health care cost trend rate by 1% would not have a material impact on the December 31, 2014 and 2013 obligations.
		As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013
		Target			Percentage of			Target			Percentage of
		Allocation			Pension Plan			Allocation			Pension Plan
					Assets 2014						Assets 2013
	Asset Category
	Equity securities		50	%		52	%		50	%		52	%
	Debt securities		50	%		48	%		50	%		48	%
Summary of Pension Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value	The fair value of the pension plan assets consist of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	Mutual funds — equity	$	2,671		$	2,560
	Mutual funds — fixed income		2,151			2,356
	Other		203			11
	Fair value of plan assets	$	5,025		$	4,927
Schedule of Expected Future Benefit Payments	Expected Future Benefit Payments:
		Pension			Postretirement
		(in thousands)
	2015	$	209		$	83
	2016		214			65
	2017		226			74
	2018		232			69
	2019		238			53
	2020-2024		1,297			240

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Provision (Benefit) for Continuing Operations	The income tax provision (benefit) for continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Current:
	Federal	$	—		$	66		$	711
	State		1,359			644			3,664
	Foreign		459			114			—
	Total Current		1,818			824			4,375
	Deferred:
	Federal	$	(323	)	$	(22,038	)	$	—
	State		7			(5,092	)		—
	Foreign		—			—			—
	Total Deferred		(316	)		(27,130	)		—
		$	1,502		$	(26,306	)	$	4,375
Income Taxes at the Federal Statutory Rate for Continuing Operations	A reconciliation of the income taxes at the federal statutory rate to the effective tax rate for continuing operations is as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Federal income tax benefit calculated at the federal statutory rate	$	(12,065	)	$	(6,667	)	$	24,431
	Impact of foreign earnings		678			669			—
	State income tax benefit net of federal benefit		(1,060	)		(770	)		(859	)
	Permanent differences, other		127			316			357
	Return to provision		91			467			—
	Change in state tax rate		1,144			—			(1,006	)
	Minority interest, net of state tax benefit		(115	)		685			(13,124	)
	Partnership state taxes		18			(96	)		303
	Basis difference in foreign subsidiaries		103			374			—
	Partnership basis difference		45			(1,022	)		(3,439	)
	Change in valuation allowance		13,044			(20,330	)		(2,288	)
	Other items		(508	)		68			—
	Income tax expense from continuing operations	$	1,502		$	(26,306	)	$	4,375
Components of the Net Deferred Tax Liability and Net Deferred Tax Asset	The components of the net deferred tax liability and net deferred tax asset as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	Current:
	Accruals for financial statement purposes not allowed for income taxes	$	4,297		$	2,626
	Basis difference in prepaid expenses		(334	)		(344	)
	Inventory		15			—
	Unrealized gain		(107	)		(12	)
	Other items		(30	)		—
	Valuation allowance		(1,971	)		(1,130	)
	Current, net		1,870			1,140
	Long-Term:
	Net operating loss and AMT credit carryforwards	$	69,021		$	55,066
	R&D credit carryforward		6,191			6,191
	Basis difference relating to intangibles		(10,644	)		(11,336	)
	Basis difference in property, plant and equipment		(19,971	)		(11,421	)
	Stock option exercises		3,854			3,344
	Basis difference in foreign subsidiaries		(5,962	)		(6,142	)
	Basis difference in partnership interest		(17,877	)		(19,051	)
	Other items		2,610			1,652
	Valuation allowance		(37,072	)		(27,574	)
	Long-Term, net	$	(9,850	)	$	(9,271	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities, net	$	(7,980	)	$	(8,131	)
Available Carryforwards to Offset Future Taxable Income	As of December 31, 2014, the Company had the following available carryforwards and tax attributes to offset future taxable income:
	Description	Amount			Expiration
		(in thousands)
	Net Operating Losses – Federal	$	176,735			2021 – 2034
	Net Operating Losses – States (Post-Apportionment and Pre-tax)
	Alabama	$	676			2015 – 2030
	California		12,849			2016 – 2032
	Colorado		5,866			2028 – 2035
	Georgia		1,013			2022 – 2030
	Hawaii		6,216			2025 – 2035
	Illinois		107,595			2020 – 2027
	Mississippi		721			2020 – 2035
		$	134,936
	R&D federal credit	$	6,981			2027 – 2033
	Alternative minimum tax credit	$	1,471			No Expiration
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Liability
	Balance at beginning of year	$	4,268		$	2,754		$	2,754
	Additions based on tax positions taken during a prior period		21			3,479			—
	Additions based on tax positions related to the current period		4			—			—
	Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years		(701	)		(1,965	)		—
	Settlements with taxing authorities		—			—			—
	Lapse of statutes of limitations		—			—			—
	Balance at end of year	$	3,592		$	4,268		$	2,754

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	The Company’s reportable operating segments have been determined in accordance with the Company’s internal management structure, which is organized based on operating activities. The Company evaluates performance based upon several factors, of which the primary financial measure is segment-operating income.
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Revenues
	East Dubuque	$	196,379		$	177,700		$	224,205
	Pasadena		138,233			133,675			37,430
	Fulghum Fibres		101,849			62,974			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial		4,086			—			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		32,114			—			—
	Total revenues	$	472,661		$	374,349		$	261,635
	Gross profit (loss)
	East Dubuque	$	74,785		$	80,883		$	133,543
	Pasadena		(14,308	)		(9,529	)		(1,704	)
	Fulghum Fibres		12,444			12,032			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial		703			—			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		6,050			—			—
	Total gross profit	$	79,674		$	83,386		$	131,839
	Selling, general and administrative expenses
	East Dubuque	$	4,165		$	4,576		$	6,242
	Pasadena		5,078			4,764			361
	Fulghum Fibres		6,399			3,754			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial		12,868			5,479			1,919
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		1,581			—			—
	Total segment selling, general and administrative expenses	$	30,091		$	18,573		$	8,522
	Depreciation and amortization
	East Dubuque	$	194		$	191		$	807
	Pasadena		1,315			3,886			583
	Fulghum Fibres		2,088			(1,708	)		—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial		139			26			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		81			—			—
	Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses		3,817			2,395			1,390
	East Dubuque		15,718			9,048			10,690
	Pasadena		7,030			4,187			380
	Fulghum Fibres		7,374			4,836			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		1,886			—			—
	Total depreciation and amortization recorded in cost of sales	$	32,008		$	18,071		$	11,070
	Total segment depreciation and amortization	$	35,825		$	20,466		$	12,460
	Other operating (income) expenses
	East Dubuque	$	537		$	806		$	510
	Pasadena		27,207			30,029			—
	Fulghum Fibres		38			72			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial		(350	)		—			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		—			—			—
	Total segment other operating expenses	$	27,432		$	30,907		$	510
	Operating income (loss)
	East Dubuque	$	69,888		$	75,310		$	125,984
	Pasadena		(47,907	)		(48,208	)		(2,648	)
	Fulghum Fibres		3,919			9,914			—
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Wood Pellets: Industrial		(11,954	)		(5,505	)		(1,919	)
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		4,388			—			—
	Total segment operating income (loss)	$	18,334		$	31,511		$	121,417
	Interest expense
	East Dubuque	$	85		$	—		$	194
	Pasadena		—			8			—
	Fulghum Fibres		2,590			1,755			—
	Wood Pellets: Industrial		3			—			—
	Wood Pellets: NEWP		304			—			—
	Total segment interest expense	$	2,982		$	1,763		$	194
Net income (loss)
East Dubuque	$	69,803		$	75,244		$	123,721
Pasadena		(47,925	)		(48,357	)		(2,648	)
Fulghum Fibres		75			6,967			—
Wood Pellets: Industrial		(11,616	)		(5,180	)		(1,919	)
Wood Pellets: NEWP		4,342			—			—
Total segment net income	$	14,679		$	28,674		$	119,154
Reconciliation of segment net income to consolidated net income (loss):
Segment net income	$	14,679		$	28,674		$	119,154
RNP – partnership and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses		(8,768	)		(7,945	)		(11,773	)
RNP – partnership and unallocated income (expenses) recorded as other income (expense)		4,800			(1,081	)		232
RNP – unallocated interest expense and loss on interest rate swaps		(18,972	)		(14,096	)		(2,226	)
RNP – income tax benefit (expense)		—			303			(303	)
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses		(28,043	)		(24,849	)		(23,432	)
Corporate and unallocated depreciation and amortization expense		(579	)		(596	)		(754	)
Corporate and unallocated income (expenses) recorded as other income (expense)		(1,634	)		19			(2,708	)
Corporate and unallocated interest expense		(380	)		(532	)		(9,055	)
Corporate income tax benefit (expense)		(866	)		26,747			(4,072	)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax		7,259			(6,606	)		(37,376	)
Consolidated net income (loss)	$	(32,504	)	$	38		$	27,687
	As of December 31,
	2014			2013
	(in thousands)
Total assets
East Dubuque	$	186,508		$	175,430
Pasadena		193,737			188,836
Fulghum Fibres		197,418			188,397
Wood Pellets: Industrial		149,021			42,089
Wood Pellets: NEWP		56,134			—
Total segment assets	$	782,818		$	594,752
	As of December 31,
	2014			2013
	(in thousands)
Reconciliation of segment total assets to consolidated total assets:
Segment total assets	$	782,818		$	594,752
RNP – partnership and other		34,071			42,078
Corporate and other		9,279			62,090
Discontinued operations		1,982			4,670
Consolidated total asset	$	828,150		$	703,590
	For the Years
	Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Capital expenditures
East Dubuque	$	24,872		$	57,981		$	56,050
Pasadena		46,791			32,307			1,521
RNP – partnership and other		—			—			—
Fulghum Fibres		21,683			2,244			—
Wood Pellets: Industrial		79,603			11,359			—
Wood Pellets: NEWP		125			—			—
Corporate and other		1,437			808			1,130
Discontinued operations		—			6			430
Total capital expenditures	$	174,511		$	104,705		$	59,131
Summary of Revenues by Geographic Area	The Company’s revenues by geographic area, based on where the customer takes title to the product, were as follows:
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	United States	$	425,768		$	352,008		$	261,635
	Canada		4,086			—			—
	Other		42,807			22,341			—
	Total revenues	$	472,661		$	374,349		$	261,635
Summary of Assets by Geographic Area	The following table sets forth assets by geographic area:
		As of
		December 31,			December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	United States	$			$	633,886
			637,271
	Canada		149,021			42,089
	Other		41,858			27,615
	Total assets	$	828,150		$	703,590

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Common_Sha1

Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Attributable To Rentech (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted
		For the Years
		Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Numerator:
	Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Rentech common shareholders	$	(39,269	)	$	5,074		$	23,376
	Less: Dividends and accretion on 2014 Preferred Stock		3,840			—			—
	Less: Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities		—			139			860
	Income (loss) from continuing operations allocated to common shareholders	$	(43,109	)	$	4,935		$	22,516
	Numerator:
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Rentech common shareholders	$	7,259		$	(6,606	)	$	(37,376	)
	Less: Income from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities		267			—			—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations allocated to common shareholders	$	6,992		$	(6,606	)	$	(37,376	)
	Numerator:
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech common shareholders	$	(32,010	)	$	(1,532	)	$	(14,000	)
	Less: Dividends and accretion on 2014 Preferred Stock		3,840			—			—
	Less: Income allocated to participating securities		—			—			—
	Net income (loss) allocated to common shareholders	$	(35,850	)	$	(1,532	)	$	(14,000	)
	Denominator:
	Weighted average common shares outstanding		228,560			226,139			223,189
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Warrants		—			927			920
	Common stock options		—			1,525			1,686
	Restricted stock		—			5,112			4,729
	Diluted shares outstanding		228,560			233,703			230,524
	Continuing operations	$	(0.19	)	$	0.02		$	0.1
	Discontinued operations	$	0.03		$	(0.03	)	$	(0.17	)
	Basic net income (loss) per common share	$	(0.16	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.06	)
	Continuing operations	$	(0.19	)	$	0.02		$	0.1
	Discontinued operations	$	0.03		$	(0.03	)	$	(0.16	)
	Diluted net income (loss) per common share	$	(0.16	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.06	)

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D1

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Information	Selected unaudited condensed consolidated financial information for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is presented in the tables below (in thousands, except per share data).
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
	For 2014
	Revenues	$	84,831		$	139,890		$	125,304		$	122,636
	Gross profit (loss)	$	17,895		$	31,439		$	12,969		$	17,371
	Operating income (loss)	$	2,995		$	(15,043	)	$	(4,312	)	$	(2,710	)
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	(4,123	)	$	(21,466	)	$	(10,445	)	$	(3,729	)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	(1,471	)	$	(1,567	)	$	(1,242	)	$	11,539
	Net income (loss)	$	(5,594	)	$	(23,033	)	$	(11,687	)	$	7,810
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	(1,394	)	$	3,588		$	1,311		$	(3,011	)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech	$	(6,988	)	$	(19,445	)	$	(10,376	)	$	4,799
	Net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech:
	Basic:
	Continuing operations	$	(0.02	)	$	(0.08	)	$	(0.05	)	$	(0.04	)
	Discontinued operations	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.05
	Net income (loss)	$	(0.03	)	$	(0.09	)	$	(0.05	)	$	0.01
	Diluted:
	Continuing operations	$	(0.02	)	$	(0.08	)	$	(0.05	)	$	(0.03	)
	Discontinued operations	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.05
	Net income (loss)	$	(0.03	)	$	(0.09	)	$	(0.05	)	$	0.01
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
	For 2013
	Revenues	$	59,564		$	120,061		$	115,657		$	79,067
	Gross profit (loss)	$	22,719		$	42,273		$	21,144		$	(2,750	)
	Operating income (loss)	$	8,990		$	27,688		$	(24,758	)	$	(13,799	)
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	7,679		$	45,802		$	(27,136	)	$	(19,701	)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	(6,893	)	$	(1,496	)	$	3,558		$	(1,775	)
	Net income (loss)	$	786		$	44,306		$	(23,578	)	$	(21,476	)
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	(6,026	)	$	(11,474	)	$	8,985		$	6,945
	Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech	$	(5,240	)	$	32,832		$	(14,593	)	$	(14,531	)
	Net income (loss) per common share allocated to Rentech:
	Basic:
	Continuing operations	$	0.01		$	0.15		$	(0.08	)	$	(0.06	)
	Discontinued operations	$	(0.03	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.02		$	(0.01	)
	Net income (loss)	$	(0.02	)	$	0.14		$	(0.06	)	$	(0.06	)

Description_of_Business_Additi

Description of Business - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended		8 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 01, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	1-May-14	1-May-13	Dec. 31, 2013
		Segment		T	Store
				Facility
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of operating segments		5
Remaining ownership percentage of holding company		60.00%
Equity interest in joint venture		100.00%
Membership interests acquired in Agrifos percentage	100.00%
Equity in loss of investee		($393,000)	($242,000)
Increased revenue			200,000
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Business acquisition date		1-May-14
Production of wood pellets				240,000
Number of wood pellet facilities				3
Fulghum [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Business acquisition date		1-May-13
Number of stores					31
Number of facilities		2
Equity in loss of investee		$400,000				$200,000
Canada [Member] | Wood Pellets Industrial [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of facilities being developed		2
United States [Member] | Fulghum [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of stores					26
Chile [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Membership interests acquired in Agrifos percentage		88.00%
Chile [Member] | Fulghum [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of stores					4
Ownership interest in the subsidiary					88.00%
Uruguay [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Membership interests acquired in Agrifos percentage		87.00%
Uruguay [Member] | Fulghum [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of stores					1
Ownership interest in the subsidiary					87.00%
RNP [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of operates fertilizer facilities		2
Number of common units owned		3.1
Graanul Invest [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Equity interest in joint venture		50.00%

Summary_of_Certain_Significant3

Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Successive agreement period	1 year
Termination notice period	210 days
Deferred revenue	$28,607,000		$21,643,000
Past due balance period	90 days
Depreciation of inventories	2,100,000		1,200,000
Assets retirement obligation liability	4,404,000		3,014,000
Accumulated amortization	9,902,000		5,110,000
Future amortization expense, 2015	5,500,000
Future amortization expense, 2016	4,300,000
Future amortization expense, 2017	3,300,000
Future amortization expense, 2018	3,200,000
Future amortization expense, 2019	3,100,000
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	7,302,000		117,000
Foreign currency transaction adjustments	-7,300,000		-900,000
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments	4,000		800,000
Pasadena [Member] | Ammonium Sulfate [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Agreement to market and sell	60,000
Unfavorable Processing Agreements [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Unfavorable Processing Agreements	2,500,000
Trade Names [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accumulated amortization	400,000
Wood Chip Processing Agreements [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accumulated amortization	4,200,000
Unfavorable Processing Agreements	29,765,000		29,765,000
Technology to Produce Fertilizers [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accumulated amortization	2,600,000
Unfavorable Processing Agreements	23,680,000		23,680,000
Fertilizer Marketing Agreements [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accumulated amortization	3,100,000
Unfavorable Processing Agreements	3,088,000		3,088,000
Customer Relationships [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Accumulated amortization	-400,000
Unfavorable Processing Agreements	1,900,000
Sales Revenue, Segment [Member] | Pasadena [Member] | Ammonium Sulfate [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Revenues from sale		100.00%
East Dubuque [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Natural gas sales	6,100,000		3,400,000	1,100,000
Period of distribution agreement	10 years
Maximum payment of commissions	$5,000,000
Effective commission rate associated with sales under the Distribution Agreement	3.40%		3.60%	2.70%
East Dubuque [Member] | Sales Revenue, Segment [Member] | Credit Concentration Risk [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage	78.00%		79.00%	83.00%
East Dubuque [Member] | Accounts Receivable [Member] | Credit Concentration Risk [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage	36.00%		84.00%
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member] | Sales Revenue, Segment [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of customers accounted for 40% of total sales	2
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member] | Sales Revenue, Segment [Member] | Credit Concentration Risk [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage	40.00%

Summary_of_Certain_Significant4

Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies - Property, Plant and Equipment Stated at Cost Less Accumulated Depreciation (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Land Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	5 years
Land Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life		20 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	4 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life		40 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	7 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life		22 years
Furniture, Fixtures and Office Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	3 years
Furniture, Fixtures and Office Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life		10 years
Computer Equipment and Software [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	2 years
Computer Equipment and Software [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life		5 years
Vehicles [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	2 years
Vehicles [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life		15 years
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	Useful life or remaining lease term whichever is shorter

Summary_of_Certain_Significant5

Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies - Reconciliation of Change in Carrying Value of AROs (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance at December 31, 2013	$3,014
Accretion expense	125
Revisions in the estimated cash flows	1,265
Balance at December 31, 2014	$4,404

Summary_of_Certain_Significant6

Summary of Certain Significant Accounting Policies - Summary of Intangible Assets (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangibles, gross	$71,706	$64,840
Less: accumulated amortization	-9,902	-5,110
Intangibles, net	61,804	59,730
Trade Names [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	20 years
Intangibles, gross	10,496	5,496
Less: accumulated amortization	-400
Wood Chip Processing Agreements [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangibles, gross	29,765	29,765
Less: accumulated amortization	-4,200
Wood Chip Processing Agreements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	1 year
Wood Chip Processing Agreements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	17 years
Off-Take Contract [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	10 years
Intangibles, gross	2,577	2,811
Technology to Produce Fertilizers [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	20 years
Intangibles, gross	23,680	23,680
Less: accumulated amortization	-2,600
Fertilizer Marketing Agreements [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	1 year 6 months
Intangibles, gross	3,088	3,088
Less: accumulated amortization	-3,100
Customer Relationships [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	13 years
Intangibles, gross	1,900
Less: accumulated amortization	400
Non-compete Agreements [Member]
Schedule Of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Average life	3 years
Intangibles, gross	$200

NEWP_Acquisition_Additional_In

NEWP Acquisition - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

1-May-14

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Revenue

$122,636,000

$125,304,000

$139,890,000

$84,831,000

$79,067,000

$115,657,000

$120,061,000

$59,564,000

$472,661,000

$374,349,000

$261,635,000

Net income (loss)

7,810,000

-11,687,000

-23,033,000

-5,594,000

-21,476,000

-23,578,000

44,306,000

786,000

-32,504,000

38,000

27,687,000

Trade Names [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Estimated useful life

20 years

Customer Relationships [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Estimated useful life

13 years

Non-compete Agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Estimated useful life

3 years

Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business acquisition date

1-May-14

Business acquisition purchase price, cash paid

35,434,000

35,400,000

Additional contingent consideration

5,000,000

Revenue

32,100,000

Net income (loss)

4,300,000

Business combination, acquisition related costs

$1,100,000

Wood Pellets NEWP [Member] | Trade Names [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Estimated useful life

20 years

Wood Pellets NEWP [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Estimated useful life

13 years

Wood Pellets NEWP [Member] | Non-compete Agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Estimated useful life

3 years

NEWP_Acquisition_Preliminary_P

NEWP Acquisition - Preliminary Purchase Price (Detail) (Wood Pellets NEWP [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	1-May-14	Dec. 31, 2014
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash	$35,400	$35,434
Estimate of expected earn-out consideration		3,840
Total preliminary purchase price		$39,274

NEWP_Acquisition_Preliminary_P1

NEWP Acquisition - Preliminary Purchase Price (Parenthetical) (Detail) (NEWP Acquisition [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
NEWP Acquisition [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Fair value of the potential earn-out consideration	$5,000

NEWP_Acquisition_Purchase_Pric

NEWP Acquisition - Purchase Price Allocation (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	1-May-14
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$38,393	$57,134	$56,592
NEWP Acquisition [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash				3,852
Accounts receivable				2,925
Inventories				2,239
Prepaid expenses and other current assets				439
Property, plant and equipment				30,625
Intangible assets				7,100
Goodwill				8,461
Accounts payable				-1,641
Accrued liabilities				-442
Customer deposits				-882
Loans				-12,600
Interest rate swaps				-802
Total preliminary purchase price				$39,274

NEWP_Acquisition_Purchase_Pric1

NEWP Acquisition - Purchase Price Allocation (Parenthetical) (Detail) (NEWP Acquisition [Member], USD $)	1-May-14
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Trade Names [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$5,000
Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	1,900
Non-compete Agreements [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$200

Fulghum_Acquisition_Additional

Fulghum Acquisition - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	1-May-13
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue	$122,636,000	$125,304,000	$139,890,000	$84,831,000	$79,067,000	$115,657,000	$120,061,000	$59,564,000	$472,661,000	$374,349,000	$261,635,000
Net Income	7,810,000	-11,687,000	-23,033,000	-5,594,000	-21,476,000	-23,578,000	44,306,000	786,000	-32,504,000	38,000	27,687,000
Fulghum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition date									1-May-13
Business acquisition purchase price, cash paid												64,200,000
Business acquisition purchase price, Acquiree's debt repaid												3,300,000
Additional deferred tax liabilities	15,800,000								15,800,000
Revenue										63,000,000
Net Income										7,000,000
Acquisition related costs										$1,500,000

Fulghum_Acquisition_Purchase_P

Fulghum Acquisition - Purchase Price Allocation (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	1-May-13
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$38,393	$57,134	$56,592
Fulghum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash				10,137
Accounts receivable				3,936
Inventories				2,389
Prepaid expenses and other current assets				952
Other receivables, net				5,435
Property, plant and equipment				94,382
Intangible assets				35,261
Goodwill				29,932
Other assets				2,974
Accounts payable				-6,547
Accrued liabilities				-5,823
Customer deposits				-1,059
Asset retirement obligation				-178
Credit facility and loans				-61,865
Unfavorable processing agreements				-6,496
Deferred income taxes				-35,262
Noncontrolling interests				-4,000
Total preliminary purchase price				$64,168

Fulghum_Acquisition_Purchase_P1

Fulghum Acquisition - Purchase Price Allocation (Parenthetical) (Detail) (Fulghum [Member], USD $)	1-May-13
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$35,261
Trade Names [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	5,496
Wood Chip Processing Agreements [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$29,765

Agrifos_Acquisition_Additional

Agrifos Acquisition - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
	Nov. 01, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash										$32,448,000	$65,823,000	$128,596,000
Company's ownership interest	100.00%
Additional contingent consideration	50,000,000
Number of years of adjusted EBITDA to calculate earn out consideration	2 years
Escrow agent, initial consideration in cash	7,250,000
Escrow agent common units, shares	323,276
Earn-out consideration arrangements description										Based on the amount by which the two-year Adjusted EBITDA, as defined in the Agrifos Purchase Agreement, of the Pasadena Facility exceeds certain thresholds
Income from the Agrifos settlement		5,600,000								5,632,000
Revenue		122,636,000	125,304,000	139,890,000	84,831,000	79,067,000	115,657,000	120,061,000	59,564,000	472,661,000	374,349,000	261,635,000
Net income (loss)		7,810,000	-11,687,000	-23,033,000	-5,594,000	-21,476,000	-23,578,000	44,306,000	786,000	-32,504,000	38,000	27,687,000
RNP [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Distribution of cash in settlement of indemnity claims													5,000,000
Distribution of common units in settlement of indemnity claims													59,186
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash	136,300,000
Business acquisition date										1-Nov-12
Common units valued	20,000,000
Company's ownership interest in RNP	60.80%
Company's ownership interest	59.90%
Distribution of cash in settlement of indemnity claims													900,000
Distribution of common units in settlement of indemnity claims													264,090
Revenue												37,400,000
Net income (loss)												2,600,000
Acquisition related costs												$4,100,000

Agrifos_Acquisition_Purchase_P

Agrifos Acquisition - Purchase Price (Detail) (Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash (through borrowings under a previous credit agreement) less working capital adjustments	$136,308
Fair market value of 538,793 Common Units issued	20,000
Estimate of potential earn-out consideration	4,920
Total preliminary purchase price	$161,228

Agrifos_Acquisition_Purchase_P1

Agrifos Acquisition - Purchase Price (Parenthetical) (Detail) (Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Common Units	538,793
Fair value of the potential earn-out consideration	$0	$0

Agrifos_Acquisition_Final_Purc

Agrifos Acquisition - Final Purchase Price Allocation (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Nov. 01, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Construction in progress	$179,423	$60,136
Goodwill	38,393	57,134	56,592
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash				2,622
Accounts receivable				3,204
Inventories				30,373
Prepaid expenses and other current assets				566
Property, plant and equipment				68,688
Construction in progress				7,011
Intangible assets				26,768
Goodwill				57,231
Other assets				73
Accounts payable				-10,638
Accrued liabilities				-6,640
Customer deposits				-13,301
Asset retirement obligation				-2,776
Other long-term liabilities				-1,953
Total preliminary purchase price				$161,228

Agrifos_Acquisition_Final_Purc1

Agrifos Acquisition - Final Purchase Price Allocation (Parenthetical) (Detail) (Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member], USD $)	Nov. 01, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$26,768
Technology to Produce Fertilizers [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	23,680
Marketing-Related Intangible Assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$3,088

Pro_Forma_Information_Pro_Form

Pro Forma Information - Pro Forma Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
As Reported [Member]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Revenues	$472,661	$374,349	$261,635
Net income (loss)	-32,504	38	27,687
Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech	-35,850	-1,532	-14,000
Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech	($0.19)	$0.02	$0.10
Pro Forma Adjustments [Member]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Revenues	14,329	80,399	226,346
Net income (loss)	1,330	-24,292	29,137
Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech	1,330	-24,427	29,573
Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech	$0.01	($0.10)	$0.13
Pro Forma [Member]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Revenues	486,990	454,748	487,981
Net income (loss)	-31,174	-24,254	56,824
Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech	($34,520)	($25,959)	$15,573
Basic and diluted net income (loss) from continuing operations per common share attributable to Rentech	($0.18)	($0.08)	$0.23

Discontinued_Operations_Additi

Discontinued Operations - Additional Information (Detail) (Alternative Energy Technologies and Decommissioned PDU [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Oct. 28, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash received from sale of business		$14.40
Additional cash received from sale of business	0.5
Additional cash received on sale of various equipment	0.4
Sale of discontinued operation, initial price		15.3
Gain on sale of business	15.3
Maximum [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Sale of discontinued operation, maximum price		$16.20

Discontinued_Operations_Schedu

Discontinued Operations - Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$305	$19
Other receivables	0	0
Total current assets	305	19
Property held for sale	1,677	4,647
Deposits and other assets		4
Total other assets	1,677	4,651
Total assets	1,982	4,670
Accounts payable	144	151
Accrued payroll and benefits	559	356
Accrued liabilities	1,008	1,496
Other	0	0
Total liabilities	1,711	2,003
Revenues	322	506	290
Operating income (loss)	6,053	-7,001	-42,114
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	$7,259	($6,606)	($37,376)

Fair_Value_Fair_Value_Disclosu

Fair Value - Fair Value Disclosure (Detail) (Level 3 [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Earn-out consideration-2013	$1,295	$1,544

Fair_Value_Fair_Value_and_Carr

Fair Value - Fair Value and Carrying Value of Borrowings and Interest Rate Swaps (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Liabilities
RNP Notes	$320,000	$320,000
NEWP debt	467,771
RNHI Revolving Loan [Member]
Liabilities
Credit Agreement / Revolving Loan		50,000
Fulghum [Member]
Liabilities
Fulghum debt	54,771
Fulghum debt		47,452
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Liabilities
Fulghum debt	10,900
NEWP debt	11,265
GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Liabilities
Credit Agreement / Revolving Loan	49,142
GE Credit Agreement [Member]
Liabilities
Credit Agreement / Revolving Loan	15,000
Level 1 [Member]
Liabilities
RNP Notes	310,202	318,400
Level 2 [Member] | RNHI Revolving Loan [Member]
Liabilities
Credit Agreement / Revolving Loan		50,000
Level 2 [Member] | Fulghum [Member]
Liabilities
Fulghum debt	53,192	45,970
Level 2 [Member] | Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Liabilities
NEWP debt	10,968
Level 2 [Member] | GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Liabilities
Credit Agreement / Revolving Loan	50,000
Level 2 [Member] | GE Credit Agreement [Member]
Liabilities
Credit Agreement / Revolving Loan	$15,000

Fair_Value_Additional_Informat

Fair Value - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Earn-out consideration, Carrying Value	$6,295,000	$1,544,000	$4,920,000
Number of years to determine fair value of earn-out consideration	2 years
Decrease in fair value of earn out liability		4,900,000
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Earn-out consideration, Carrying Value	5,000,000
Atikokan Project [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Earn-out consideration, Carrying Value	1,295,000	1,544,000
Number of years to determine fair value of earn-out consideration	10 years
Loan provided to sellers	900,000
Increase or decrease in EBITDA	1,000,000
Increase or decrease in earn-out consideration	100,000
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Earn-out consideration, Carrying Value			4,920,000
Fair value of the potential earn-out consideration	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Reconciliation_of_t

Fair Value - Reconciliation of the Change in the Carrying Value of Earn-out Consideration (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$1,544	$4,920
Add: Earn-out consideration	3,840	1,850
Add: Unrealized (gain) loss	1,033	-5,122
Add: Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation	-122	-104
Ending Balance	6,295	1,544
Agrifos Holdings Inc [Member]
Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance		4,920
Add: Unrealized (gain) loss		-4,920
Atikokan Project [Member]
Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	1,544
Add: Earn-out consideration		1,850
Add: Unrealized (gain) loss	-127	-202
Add: Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation	-122	-104
Ending Balance	1,295	1,544
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Add: Earn-out consideration	3,840
Add: Unrealized (gain) loss	1,160
Ending Balance	$5,000

Derivative_Instruments_Additio

Derivative Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	8 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	Swap			Swap
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives	($3,807,000)
Number of derivative contracts	3
Number of forward interest rate swaps entered				2
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives	-700,000	200,000
Payment to terminate the interest rate swaps			900,000
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative fixed interest rate	7.95%	7.95%
Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives	($4,000,000)
Industrial Revenue Bond [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative fixed interest rate	5.29%	5.29%
Other Industrial Revenue Bond [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative fixed interest rate	5.05%	5.05%

Derivative_Instruments_Net_Gai

Derivative Instruments - Net Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Swaps (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	8 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	144 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative [Line Items]
Realized loss	$3,100
Unrealized gain (loss)		-3,807
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Unrealized gain (loss)		-700	200
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Realized loss				-22	-24
Unrealized gain (loss)		172		-929	17
Total net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps		$172		($951)	($7)

Derivative_Instruments_Forward

Derivative Instruments - Forward Natural Gas Contracts and Interest Rate Swaps Recorded in Accrued Liabilities and Other Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Forward natural gas contracts:
Gross amounts recognized	$3,955
Gross amounts offset in consolidated balance sheets	0
Net amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets	3,955
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Forward natural gas contracts:
Gross amounts recognized	653
Gross amounts offset in consolidated balance sheets	0
Net amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheets	$653

Derivative_Instruments_Schedul

Derivative Instruments - Schedule of Financial Instruments at Fair Value (Detail) (Level 2 [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Forward gas contracts	$3,955
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Interest rate swaps	$653

Inventories_Inventories_Detail

Inventories - Inventories (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Finished goods	$26,669	$27,638
Raw materials	11,226	7,448
Other	190	290
Total inventory	$38,085	$35,376

Inventories_Additional_Informa

Inventories - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventory [Line Items]
Write-down of inventory	$1,500	$2,800	$6,045	$12,360
Pasadena Facility [Member] | Ammonium Sulfate [Member]
Inventory [Line Items]
Write-down of inventory			$6,000	$12,400

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_P

Property, Plant and Equipment - Property, Plant and Equipment (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$500,156	$410,172
Less: Accumulated depreciation	-107,705	-75,518
Total property, plant and equipment, net	392,451	334,654
Land and land improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	28,042	26,149
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	45,516	33,096
Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	406,489	334,645
Furniture, Fixtures and Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	1,610	1,123
Computer equipment and computer software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	8,748	7,977
Vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	5,893	4,624
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	2,405	2,348
Other [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$1,453	$210

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_C

Property, Plant and Equipment - Construction in Progress (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	$179,423	$60,136
East Dubuque [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	15,010	2,195
Pasadena [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	32,747	31,335
Fulghum Fibers [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	7,197	273
Atikokan Project [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	36,931	8,458
Wawa Project [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	65,232	11,809
Construction under QS Construction Facility [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	21,712	5,198
Other Construction In Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	$594	$868

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_A

Property, Plant and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
	t	t
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Production of wood pellets	75,000
Weyerhaeuser Corporation [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Production of wood pellets		450,000
Atikokan Project [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Production of wood pellets		110,000
Construction In Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Portion of capitalized interest costs included in construction in progress	6.3	0.8

Goodwill_Reconciliation_of_Cha

Goodwill - Reconciliation of Change in Carrying Value of Goodwill (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance			$57,134	$56,592
Add: Acquisition			8,461	29,932
Add: Increase				639
Less: Impairment	-27,200	-30,000	-27,202	-30,029
Ending Balance			38,393	57,134
Pasadena [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance			27,202	56,592
Add: Increase				639
Less: Impairment			-27,202	-30,029
Ending Balance				27,202
Fulghum [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Add: Acquisition				29,932
Ending Balance			29,932	29,932
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Add: Acquisition			8,461
Ending Balance			$8,461

Impairments_Additional_Informa

Impairments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
							Subsidiary
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Write down inventory	$1,500,000			$2,800,000	$6,045,000	$12,360,000
Goodwill impairment loss		27,200,000	30,000,000		27,202,000	30,029,000
Number of subsidiaries							2
Impairment Loss On Intangible Assets							$16,000,000

Debt_Additional_Information_De

Debt - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

Apr. 09, 2014

Apr. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Jan. 23, 2015

Jul. 22, 2014

Feb. 12, 2015

Apr. 12, 2013

Apr. 08, 2014

Nov. 25, 2013

Sep. 24, 2013

Sep. 23, 2013

t

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Constructed capacity

75,000

Line of credit facility interest rate percentage

8.00%

Revolving loan borrowed

$467,771,000

$419,817,000

Letter of credit fee

3.75%

Term loan facility

50,000,000

Prepayment premium

1.00%

Loss on extinguishment of debt

-1,485,000

-6,001,000

-4,801,000

2013 Drax Contract [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Financing obligation

20,000,000

Contract term period

10 years

Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Outstanding debt

10,900,000

Range of maturity dates

2016 through 2021

Wood Pellets NEWP [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Additional secured term loan

8,000,000

Construction under QS Construction Facility [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Revolving loan borrowed

18,679,000

4,527,000

Construction under QS Construction Facility [Member] | 2013 Drax Contract [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Line of credit facility interest rate percentage

10.00%

Financing obligation

20,000,000

Contract term period

15 years

Senior Notes [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Senior secured notes issued

320,000,000

Senior secured note interest percentage

6.50%

Date of first required payment

15-Oct-13

Maturity date of instrument

15-Apr-21

Debt instrument frequency of periodic payment

Semi-annually in arrears on April 15 and October 15 of each year.

Debt instrument redemption price as percentage of principal amount

100.00%

Debt instrument redemption percentage of principal amount before specified date maximum

35.00%

Equity offering percentage of principal amount

106.50%

Debt instrument latest call date

15-Apr-16

Bmo Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Current credit facility

3,000,000

Agreement termination date

25-Nov-15

Amended credit facility

10,000,000

Revolving loan collateral fee

0.75%

Letters of credit issued

7,100,000

1,100,000

Term Loan Credit Facility [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Borrowers commitments termination, period

5 years

Interest rate

2.00%

GE Credit Agreement [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Outstanding borrowings

15,000,000

Agreement termination date

22-Jul-19

Revolving loan borrowed

15,000,000

Letters of credit issued

1,800,000

Borrowers commitments termination, period

18 months

Credit agreement date

22-Jul-14

Senior secured revolving credit facility

50,000,000

Amount of letter of credit sublimit

10,000,000

Credit Agreement base rate borrowings

2.25%

Credit agreement on the average undrawn available portion of the credit facility

0.50%

Prepayment fee, rate

1.00%

Line of credit facility minimum commitment fee amount

5,000,000

RNP Credit Agreement [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Current credit facility

35,000,000

Outstanding borrowings

0

Agreement termination date

22-Jul-14

Loss on extinguishment of debt

-600,000

A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Increase in borrowings

25,000,000

Additional amount available for borrowing

38,000,000

Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Weighted average interest rate on NEWP's debt

5.00%

Fulghum [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maturity dates range, description

Maturity dates ranging from 2015 through 2028

Weighted average interest rate

6.30%

Fulghum [Member] | United States [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Outstanding debt

34,700,000

Fulghum [Member] | South America [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Outstanding debt

18,500,000

Minimum [Member] | Fulghum [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maturity dates range

2015

Maximum [Member] | Fulghum [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maturity dates range

2028

RNHI Revolving Loan [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Loss on extinguishment of debt

-900,000

Two Thousand Twelve Credit Agreement [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Loss on extinguishment of debt

-6,000,000

-2,100,000

Two Thousand Twelve Credit Agreement [Member] | Bmo Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Amended credit facility

3,000,000

Convertible Notes [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Loss on extinguishment of debt

-2,700,000

Base Rate [Member] | GE Credit Agreement [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Federal funds rate

0.50%

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Line of credit facility interest rate percentage

7.00%

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Senior secured note interest percentage

2.25%

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | GE Credit Agreement [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

LIBOR for an interest period

1.00%

Credit Agreement LIBOR borrowings

3.25%

RNHI [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Revolving loan borrowed

50,000,000

RNHI [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Agreement termination date

9-Apr-19

RNHI [Member] | RNHI Revolving Loan [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Amended credit facility

$100,000,000

Debt_Summary_of_Total_Debt_Det

Debt - Summary of Total Debt (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding	$467,771	$419,817
Plus: Unamortized net premium	1,085	2,162
Less: Current portion	17,784	9,916
Less: Current portion unamortized premium	-524	-646
Long-term debt	451,072	412,063
RNP Note Payable [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding	320,000	320,000
Construction under QS Construction Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding	18,679	4,527
Fulghum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding	53,179	45,290
RNHI Revolving Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding		50,000
GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding	50,000
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding	10,913
GE Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt outstanding	$15,000

Debt_Future_Maturities_of_Long

Debt - Future Maturities of Long-term Debt (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$17,260
2016	9,634
2017	8,123
2018	5,710
2019	70,369
Thereafter	356,675
Total debt	$467,771

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 28, 2015	Jan. 31, 2015
	MMBTU	MMBTU		MMBTU	MMBTU
	mi	mi
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Total MMBtus associated with additional forward purchase contracts	3,728,000	2,152,000
Weighted average rate per MMBtu	4.18	3.98
Total lease expense	$6,400,000	$2,000,000	$2,000,000
Operating leases expiration period	30-Sep-29
Estimated time of installation of ammonia safety flare	1-Dec-15
Cost of project under settlement agreement with environmental protection agency	400,000
Estimated amount of penalty for settlement agreement	100,000
Property tax paid	1,300,000
Property tax refund receivable	1,200,000
Property tax payable	1,700,000
Excess property tax assessed	1,600,000
Proceeds from disposal of assets	14,392,000	8,991,000	569,000
Miles of natural gas pipeline		18
Expected abandonment costs	800,000
Natchez [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Proceeds from disposal of assets		8,600,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Total MMBtus associated with additional forward purchase contracts				2,700,000	2,700,000
Purchase commitments				7,700,000	7,700,000
Weighted average rate per MMBtu				2.88	2.88
Forward Gas Contracts [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Deposits, forward purchase contracts	900,000
2013 Drax Contract [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Guaranteed obligations	20,000,000
Contract term period	10 years
Accrued contractual payment	200,000
2013 Drax Contract [Member] | Wood Pellets Industrial [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Wood pallets required to sell from Wawa Facility to Drax	400,000
Ontario Power Generation [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Contract term period	10 years
Quantity required to deliver under Atikokan Facility	45,000
Maximum quantity required to deliver under Atikokan Facility	90,000
Canadian National Contract [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Accrued contractual payment	500,000
Location of Atikokan Facility from Port of Quebec	1,300
Location of Wawa Facility from Port of Quebec	1,100
Minimum rail carloads committed to transport during next fiscal year	1,500
Minimum rail carloads committed to transport thereafter	3,600
Penalty for delivery shortfalls per rail car	$1,000

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Commitments for Natural Gas Purchases (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
	MMBTU	MMBTU
Oil and Gas Delivery Commitments and Contracts [Line Items]
Total MMBtus under contracts	3,728,000	2,152,000
Commitments to purchase natural gas	$15,568	$8,571
Weighted average rate per MMBtu based on the fixed rates and the indexes applicable to each contract	4.18	3.98
MMBtus under Fixed-Price Contracts [Member]
Oil and Gas Delivery Commitments and Contracts [Line Items]
Total MMBtus under contracts	3,188,000	2,071,000
MMBtus under Index-Price Contracts [Member]
Oil and Gas Delivery Commitments and Contracts [Line Items]
Total MMBtus under contracts	540,000	81,000

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies - Summary of Future Minimum Lease Payments (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$7,318
2016	6,642
2017	4,350
2018	3,380
2019 and thereafter	16,893
Total	$38,583

Preferred_Stock_Additional_Inf

Preferred Stock - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 09, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Apr. 09, 2014
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Purchase Share Price Aggregate Amount	98
Preferred stock issuance discount, percentage	2.00%
Convertible preferred stock into common stock	45,045,045			45,045,045
Preferred stock authorized shares	2.22			2.22
Mezzanine, preferred stock, dividend rate		4.50%
Aggregate original issue price	100			100
Preferred stock authorized shares	5,524,862	1,000,000	1,000,000	5,524,862
Series E Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares of preferred stock sold	100,000			100,000
Mezzanine, preferred stock, dividend rate	4.50%	4.50%	0.00%

Preferred_Stock_Schedule_of_Me

Preferred Stock - Schedule of Mezzanine Equity (Detail) (Mezzanine Equity [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Mezzanine Equity [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Original issue price of 2014 Preferred Stock	$100,000
Less: Issuance costs	-3,144
Less: Unamortized discount	-1,796
Total mezzanine equity	$95,060

Stockholders_Equity_Additional

Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			24 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Apr. 22, 2013	Jul. 09, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Special one time distribution per share			$0.19
Special distribution payment		$0.50	$43.30	$43.80
Common stock repurchased authorized amount					25
Stock awards vesting period	12 days
Minimum percentage of acquired outstanding shares of the Companies common stock	4.99%
Outstanding shares of the Companies common stock	1.00%
Preferred stock, par value	$10	$10		$10
Company has reserved Preferred Stock	45,000
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Aggregate initial offering price						200
Series D Junior Participating Preferred Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share Price	$3.75
Preferred stock, par value	$10	$10		$10
Performance Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average closing share price as per performance vesting requirement for special distribution			$3
Trial period of weighted average closing share price			30 days
Special one time distribution per share			$0.19
Special dividend payment accrued for PSU			$0.30
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Special one time distribution per share			$0.19
Dividend per share added to closing price			$0.19
Stock awards vesting period	3 years
Performance Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock awards vesting period	4 years	3 years	3 years

Stockholders_Equity_Performanc

Stockholders' Equity - Performance Shares and Restricted Stock Units Issued by the Company (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Type of Award
Total	6,085,000	4,999,000	3,099,000
Performance Awards [Member]
Type of Award
Total	5,564,000	3,005,000	1,963,000
Time Vested Awards [Member]
Type of Award
Total	521,000	1,994,000	1,136,000

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co2

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2005
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting of restricted stock unit award	12 days
Period for using last day of the month stock price to project expected stock price volatility	54 months
Adjustment for special dividend	4,119,000	3,490,000	4,472,000	4,672,000
Total intrinsic value of options exercised	$350,000	$900,000	$300,000
Share based awards, key assumptions, dividend yield	0.00%
Shares issued	6,085,000	4,999,000	3,099,000
Shares granted	1,122,000
Adjustment for Special Distribution [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Adjustment for special dividend		244,000	312,000
2005 Stock Option Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Adjustment for special dividend	210,000	195,000
Expiration term of options under the company's 2005 stock option plan	5 years
2006 and 2009 Incentive [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration term of options under the company's 2005 stock option plan	3 years
2006 and 2009 Incentive [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration term of options under the company's 2005 stock option plan	10 years
2005 and 2009 stock option [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting of restricted stock unit award	1 year
2005 and 2009 stock option [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting of restricted stock unit award	3 years
2011 LTIP [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Accrued compensation expense	1,283,000	1,460,000	2,827,000
Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting of restricted stock unit award	3 years
Tax benefit	0
Unrecognized compensation cost	300,000
Weighted-average period for cost to be recognized	3 years 11 months 9 days
Compensation expense	39,000	516,000	658,000
Shares issued			259,400
Accrued compensation expense	56,000	516,000	658,000
Common Stock Options [Member] | Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares issued	40,000	178,400	234,400
Shares granted	140,000
Shares vested at grant date but not issued	100,000
Accrued compensation expense	351,000	401,400	401,000
Common Stock Options [Member] | Consultant [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares issued			25,000
Accrued compensation expense			52,000
Common Stock Options [Member] | 2006 Incentive Award Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Adjustment for special dividend	1,368,000	1,338,000
Common Stock Options [Member] | 2009 Incentive Award Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Adjustment for special dividend	1,438,000	1,713,000
Warrants [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	0
Number of Shares, Granted					3,500,000
Exercise price of common stock	$1.82
Percentage increase in vested warrants, Year One	10.00%
Percentage increase in vested warrants, Year two	15.00%
Percentage increase in vested warrants, Year three	20.00%
Percentage increase in vested warrants, Year Four	25.00%
Weighted average price of vested warrants, Year one	$2.10
Weighted average price of vested warrants, Year Two	$2.75
Weighted average price of vested warrants, year Three	$3.50
Weighted average price of vested warrants, Year Four	$4.25
Percentage increase in non vested warrants	30.00%
Weighted average price of non vested warrants	$5.25
Shares vested				2,082,500
Shares nonvested	1,050,000
Warrants assigned to a third party	262,500
Warrants held to a third party	787,500
Original warrant vested				787,500
Other warrants held				393,750
Warrants expired	31-Dec-11
Compensation expense	0	0	0
Outstanding RSU's and Performance Share Awards	1,250,000	1,250,000	1,250,000	10,424,000
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting of restricted stock unit award	3 years
Adjustment for special dividend	3,119,000	17,000
Shares vest on each annual anniversary date of the commencement date of the agreement	One-third
Vesting of the restricted stock unit grant	3 months
Vesting of the restricted stock unit grant change in control	2 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | 2006 Incentive Award Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Adjustment for special dividend		1,322,000
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | 2009 Incentive Award Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Adjustment for special dividend	8,286,000	9,991,000
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	4,900,000
Weighted-average period for cost to be recognized	2 years 6 months
Number of Shares, Granted	6,085,000	4,999,000	3,099,000
Shares vested	1,500,000	2,680,000	2,080,000
Compensation expense	4,619,000	4,803,000	6,699,000
Outstanding RSU's and Performance Share Awards	10,202,000	11,330,000	11,001,000	11,888,000
Grant date fair value of RSU's and Performance Share Awards	4,000,000	3,900,000	4,200,000
Accrued compensation expense	5,123,000	5,005,000	6,889,000
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding RSU's and Performance Share Awards	10,202,000	11,330,000	11,001,000
RSU's not granted	2,017,000	17,000
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member] | 2006 Incentive Award Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares, Granted		1,322,000	1,745,000
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member] | 2009 Incentive Award Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares, Granted	8,185,000	9,991,000	9,223,000
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares, Granted	160,088	116,508	54,059
Outstanding RSU's and Performance Share Awards	219,858	193,632	154,938	163,388
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member] | 2011 LTIP [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting of restricted stock unit award	1 year
Shares issued	160,088
Phantom units award	142,228
Number of installment for Phantom units award	3
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member] | 2011 LTIP [Member] | Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares issued	11,890
Accrued compensation expense	200,000
Phantom units award	5,970
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	2,300,000
Accrued compensation expense	$1,100,000
Weighted-average period	2 years 6 months
2013 Performance Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based awards, key assumptions, expected volatility rate	57.51%
Share based awards, key assumptions, risk-free rate	0.64%
Share based awards, key assumptions, dividend yield	0.00%
2014 Performance Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based awards, key assumptions, expected volatility rate	54.58%
Share based awards, key assumptions, risk-free rate	1.38%
Share based awards, key assumptions, dividend yield	0.00%

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co3

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation - Charges Associated with All Equity Based Grants (Detail) (Equity Based Grant [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity Based Grant [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense	$4,658,000	$5,319,000	$7,357,000
Board compensation expense	872,000	603,000	591,000
Total compensation expense	5,530,000	5,922,000	7,948,000
Consulting expense		18,000	74,000
Total expense	$5,530,000	$5,940,000	$8,022,000
Reduction to both basic and diluted earnings per share from compensation expense	$0.02	$0.03	$0.04

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co4

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation - Fair Value of Options and Warrants (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate, Minimum	1.28%
Risk-free interest rate, Maximum	1.65%
Expected volatility, Minimum	54.50%
Expected volatility, Maximum	57.30%
Dividend yield	0.00%
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected life (in years)	3 years 6 months 29 days
Forfeiture rate	0.00%
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected life (in years)	4 years 4 months 28 days
Forfeiture rate	22.00%

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co5

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation - Number of Shares Reserved, Outstanding and Available for Issuance (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Reserved	51,648,000
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards	4,119,000	3,490,000	4,472,000	4,672,000
Shares Available for Issuance	12,285,000	4,483,000
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Reserved	3,119,000
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards	3,119,000	17,000
2005 Stock Option Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Reserved	1,000,000
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards	210,000	195,000
2006 Incentive Award Plan [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Reserved	8,000,000
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards	1,368,000	1,338,000
2006 Incentive Award Plan [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards		1,322,000
2009 Incentive Award Plan [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Reserved	39,217,000
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards	1,438,000	1,713,000
Shares Available for Issuance	12,285,000	4,483,000
2009 Incentive Award Plan [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards	8,286,000	9,991,000
Adjustment for Special Distribution [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Reserved	312,000
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards		244,000	312,000
Incentive Award Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Reserved	48,529,000
Shares Underlying Outstanding Awards	11,302,000	14,803,000
Shares Available for Issuance	12,285,000	4,483,000

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co6

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation - Charges Associated with Equity Based Compensation (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
2011 LTIP [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock based compensation expense	$1,283,000	$1,460,000	$2,827,000
Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense	39,000	516,000	658,000
Board compensation expense	17,000
Stock based compensation expense	56,000	516,000	658,000
Consulting expense		18,000	22,000
Total expense	56,000	534,000	680,000
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense	4,619,000	4,803,000	6,699,000
Board compensation expense	504,000	202,000	190,000
Stock based compensation expense	$5,123,000	$5,005,000	$6,889,000

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co7

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation - Equity Based Compensation Transactions (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2005
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding, Beginning Balance	3,490,000	4,472,000	4,672,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance	$1.59	$1.67	$1.64
Adjustment for special distribution	4,119,000	3,490,000	4,472,000
Number of Shares, Granted	1,122,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted	$1.25
Number of Shares, Exercised	-393,000	-711,000	-276,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised	$1.17	$1.03	$1.10
Number of Shares, Canceled / Expired	-100,000	-271,000	-236,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Cancelled/ Expired	$0.89	$2.40	$1.89
Outstanding, Ending Balance	4,119,000	3,490,000	4,472,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance	$1.55	$1.59	$1.67
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$784,931	$2,144,448	$5,848,000
Options exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	762,882
Weighted average fair value of options granted	$0.53
Adjustment for Special Distribution [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Adjustment for special distribution		244,000	312,000
Outstanding, Ending Balance		244,000	312,000
Warrants [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding, Beginning Balance	1,250,000	1,250,000	10,424,000
Number of Shares, Granted					3,500,000
Number of Share, Vested and Settled				-2,082,500
Number of Share, Exercised			-5,156,000
Number of Shares, Canceled / Expired			-4,018,000
Outstanding, Ending Balance	1,250,000	1,250,000	1,250,000	10,424,000
Warrants exercisable, Number of shares	1,250,000	1,250,000	1,250,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance	$0.57	$0.57	$1.96
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted	$0	$0	$0
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Vested	$0	$0	$0
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised			$1.27
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Canceled / Expired			$3.28
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance	$0.57	$0.57	$0.57	$1.96
Warrants exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0.57	$0.57	$0.57
Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options exercisable, Number of shares	3,017,000	3,436,000	3,485,000
Options exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$1.67	$1.60	$1.73
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Award [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	12,845,706	23,793,000	28,934,000
Outstanding, Beginning Balance	11,330,000	11,001,000	11,888,000
Number of Shares, Granted	6,085,000	4,999,000	3,099,000
Number of Share, Vested and Settled	-1,500,000	-2,680,000	-2,080,000
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable	-688,000	-1,812,000	-975,000
Number of Shares, Canceled / Expired	-5,025,000	-178,000	-931,000
Outstanding, Ending Balance	10,202,000	11,330,000	11,001,000
Weighted average grant date fair value, Beginning Balance	$1.76	$1.71	$1.37
Grant date fair value of each unit	$1.88	$1.66	$2.55
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested and settled in shares	$1.87	$1.49	$1.35
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable	$1.82	$1.37	$1.40
Weighted average grant date fair value, Canceled / Expired	$1.16	$2.18	$1.37
Weighted average grant date fair value, Ending Balance	$1.28	$1.76	$1.71
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding, Beginning Balance	193,632	154,938	163,388
Number of Shares, Granted	160,088	116,508	54,059
Vested and Settled in Shares	-83,471	-49,409	-42,350
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable	-35,342	-27,127	-20,040
Number of Shares, Canceled / Expired	-15,049	-1,278	-119
Outstanding, Ending Balance	219,858	193,632	154,938
Weighted average grant date fair value, Beginning Balance	$20.97	$23.78	$18.40
Grant date fair value of each unit	$10.93	$18.71	$34.86
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested and settled in shares	$20.68	$23.42	$15.68
Vested and Surrendered for Withholding Taxes Payable	$20.91	$21.75	$18.40
Weighted average grant date fair value, Canceled / Expired			($18.40)
Weighted average grant date fair value, Canceled / Expired	($24.79)	($35.14)
Weighted average grant date fair value, Ending Balance	$11.33	$20.97	$23.78
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$2,310,711	$3,407,929	$5,839,626

Accounting_for_Equity_Based_Co8

Accounting for Equity Based Compensation - Summary of Options and Warrants Outstanding and Exercisable (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	4,119,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	3 years 6 months 7 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$1.55
Number Exercisable	3,017,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$1.67
Warrants [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Exercise Prices	$0.57
Number Outstanding	1,250,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	0 years
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0.57
Number Exercisable	1,250,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0.57
Range One [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit	$0.50
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit	$0.92
Number Outstanding	1,955,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	3 years 7 months 6 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0.88
Number Exercisable	1,955,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0.88
Range Two [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit	$0.96
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit	$1
Number Outstanding	27,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	6 years 5 months 27 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0.96
Number Exercisable	27,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0.96
Range Three [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit	$1.12
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit	$1.81
Number Outstanding	1,360,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	4 years 7 months 28 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$1.25
Number Exercisable	258,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$1.31
Range Four [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit	$2.07
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit	$2.50
Number Outstanding	32,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	2 years 3 months 22 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$2.07
Number Exercisable	32,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$2.07
Range Five [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit	$3.50
Number Outstanding	21,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	1 year 11 months 12 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$3.50
Number Exercisable	21,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$3.50
Range Six [Member] | Common Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit	$3.87
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit	$4
Number Outstanding	724,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	1 year 1 month 21 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$3.88
Number Exercisable	724,000
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$3.88

Future_Minimum_Lease_Receipts_1

Future Minimum Lease Receipts - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Carrying value of properties underlying leases	$86.20
Cost of properties underlying leases	$76.30

Future_Minimum_Lease_Receipts_2

Future Minimum Lease Receipts - Schedule of Minimum Future Rentals on Noncancelable Operating Leases (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Leases [Abstract]
2015	$28,887
2016	25,201
2017	21,392
2018	15,280
2019	11,425
Minimum future rentals on noncancelable operating leases	$102,185

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Additio

Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum age eligible to participate in defined contribution plan	18 years
Partnership Contributed Defined Contribution Plans	$1,300,000	$1,200,000	$1,000,000
Number of pension plan	2
Period of service during a year of employment	1000 hours
Retirement age	55 years
Age limit up to which participants are eligible for supplements at retirement	20 years
Age up to which supplements are paid	65 years
Percentage of increase decrease in health care cost trend rate	1.00%	1.00%
Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net periodic benefit cost	0
Expected future partnership contribution for defined contribution plans	0
Postretirement [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net periodic benefit cost	16,000
Expected future partnership contribution for defined contribution plans	$83,000
Range One [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Partnership Matching	100.00%
Participants salary deferrals	3.00%
Range Two [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Partnership Matching	50.00%
Participants salary deferrals	3.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligation (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fair value of plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$5,025	$4,927
Pension [Member]
Projected benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	4,505	4,841
Service cost	107	137	29
Interest cost	213	194	31
Actuarial (gain) loss	1,125	-528
Actual benefit paid	-153	-139
Benefit obligation at end of year	5,796	4,505	4,841
Fair value of plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	4,927	4,333
Actual return on plan assets	251	624
Employer contributions		109
Actual benefit paid	-153	-139
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	5,025	4,927	4,333
Funded status at end of year	-771	422
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet
Noncurrent assets		422
Noncurrent liabilities	-771
Total amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheet	-771	422
Postretirement [Member]
Projected benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	853	1,136
Service cost	35	43	4
Interest cost	37	43	5
Actuarial (gain) loss	93	-233
Actual benefit paid	-91	-136
Benefit obligation at end of year	927	853	1,136
Fair value of plan assets
Employer contributions	91	136
Actual benefit paid	-91	-136
Funded status at end of year	-927	-853
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet
Current liabilities	-81	-86
Noncurrent liabilities	-846	-767
Total amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheet	($927)	($853)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Compone

Employee Benefit Plans - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost and Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss	$1,304	($1,143)	($166)
Pension [Member]
Net periodic benefit cost
Service cost	107	137	29
Interest cost	213	194	31
Expected return on plan assets	-290	-260	-42
Amortization of net gain	-54	-5
Net periodic pension costs	-24	66	18
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income
Net actuarial (gain) loss	1,163	-893	-444
Recognized actuarial gain	54	5
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss	1,217	-888	-444
Postretirement [Member]
Net periodic benefit cost
Service cost	35	43	4
Interest cost	37	43	5
Amortization of prior service cost	22	22
Recognized gain	-16
Net periodic pension costs	78	108	9
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income
Net actuarial (gain) loss	93	-233	-54
Recognized actuarial gain	16
Prior service cost			332
Recognized prior service cost	-22	-22
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss	$87	($255)	$278

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary1

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss	$4,000	$800,000
Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net gain	-114,000	-1,332,000	-444,000
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss	-114,000	-1,332,000	-444,000
Postretirement [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net gain	-178,000	-287,000	-54,000
Prior service cost	287,000	310,000	332,000
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss	$109,000	$23,000	$278,000

Employee_Benefit_Plan_Weighted

Employee Benefit Plan - Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.00%	4.80%	4.10%
Postretirement [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	3.90%	4.70%	4.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Weighte

Employee Benefit Plans - Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Pension Cost (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.80%	4.10%	3.60%
Expected rate of return on assets	6.00%	6.00%	6.00%
Postretirement [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.70%	4.00%	3.60%
Health care cost trend: initial	9.00%	7.25%	7.50%
Health care cost trend: ultimate	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Year ultimate reached	2025	2023	2023

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Schedul

Employee Benefit Plans - Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Mutual Funds - Equity [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	50.00%	50.00%
Percentage of Pension Plan	52.00%	52.00%
Mutual Funds - Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	50.00%	50.00%
Percentage of Pension Plan	48.00%	48.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary2

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Pension Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$5,025	$4,927
Mutual Funds - Equity [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,671	2,560
Mutual Funds - Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,151	2,356
Other Plan Assets [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$203	$11

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Schedul1

Employee Benefit Plans - Schedule of Expected Benefit Contribution (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2015	$209
2016	214
2017	226
2018	232
2019	238
2020-2024	1,297
Postretirement [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2015	83
2016	65
2017	74
2018	69
2019	53
2020-2024	$240

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 01, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax [Line Items]
Number of years of profitability determining realizability of deferred tax assets		3 years
Percent of equity interest owned	100.00%
Total gross deferred tax assets		$86,000,000	$68,900,000
Total gross deferred tax liabilities		94,000,000	77,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits		3,592,000	4,268,000	2,754,000	2,754,000
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate if recognized		800,000
Unrecognized tax benefits that would not impact effective tax rate if recognized		2,800,000
Period not reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits will significantly decrease		Next 12 months
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Business acquisition date		1-May-14
Chile [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Percent of equity interest owned		88.00%
Provision related to uncertain positions		$900,000
Uruguay [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Percent of equity interest owned		87.00%

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Provis

Income Taxes - Income Tax Provision (Benefit) for Continuing Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current:
Federal		$66	$711
State	1,359	644	3,664
Foreign	459	114
Total Current	1,818	824	4,375
Deferred:
Federal	-323	-22,038
State	7	-5,092
Foreign	0	0	0
Total Deferred	-316	-27,130
Income tax expense from continuing operations	$1,502	($26,306)	$4,375

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_at_t

Income Taxes - Income Taxes at the Federal Statutory Rate for Continuing Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal income tax benefit calculated at the federal statutory rate	($12,065)	($6,667)	$24,431
Impact of foreign earnings	678	669
State income tax benefit net of federal benefit	-1,060	-770	-859
Permanent differences, other	127	316	357
Return to provision	91	467
Change in state tax rate	1,144		-1,006
Minority interest, net of state tax benefit	-115	685	-13,124
Partnership state taxes	18	-96	303
Basis difference in foreign subsidiaries	103	374
Partnership basis difference	45	-1,022	-3,439
Change in valuation allowance	13,044	-20,330	-2,288
Other items	-508	68
Income tax expense from continuing operations	$1,502	($26,306)	$4,375

Income_Taxes_Components_of_the

Income Taxes - Components of the Net Deferred Tax Liability and Net Deferred Tax Asset (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current:
Accruals for financial statement purposes not allowed for income taxes	$4,297	$2,626
Basis difference in prepaid expenses	-334	-344
Inventory	15
Unrealized gain	-107	-12
Other items	-30
Valuation allowance	-1,971	-1,130
Current, net	1,870	1,140
Long-Term:
Net operating loss and AMT credit carryforwards	69,021	55,066
R&D credit carryforward	6,191	6,191
Basis difference relating to intangibles	-10,644	-11,336
Basis difference in property, plant and equipment	-19,971	-11,421
Stock option exercises	3,854	3,344
Basis difference in foreign subsidiaries	-5,962	-6,142
Basis difference in partnership interest	-17,877	-19,051
Other items	2,610	1,652
Valuation allowance	-37,072	-27,574
Long-Term, net	-9,850	-9,271
Total deferred tax liabilities, net	($7,980)	($8,131)

Income_Taxes_Available_Carryfo

Income Taxes - Available Carryforwards to Offset Future Taxable Income (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
R&D federal credit	$6,981
Alternative minimum tax credit	1,471
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2027
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2033
Federal [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	176,735
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2021
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2034
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	134,936
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | ALABAMA
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	676
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2015
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2030
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | CALIFORNIA
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	12,849
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2016
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2032
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | COLORADO
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	5,866
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2028
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2035
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | GEORGIA
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	1,013
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2022
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2030
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | HAWAII
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	6,216
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2025
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2035
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | ILLINOIS
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	107,595
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2020
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2027
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | MISSISSIPPI
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Losses	$721
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, start	2020
Operating loss carryforwards expiration, end	2035

Income_Taxes_Unrecognized_Tax_

Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Liability
Balance at beginning of year	$4,268	$2,754	$2,754
Additions based on tax positions taken during a prior period	21	3,479
Additions based on tax positions related to the current period	4
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years	-701	-1,965
Settlements with taxing authorities	0	0	0
Lapse of statutes of limitations	0	0	0
Balance at end of year	$3,592	$4,268	$2,754

Segment_Information_Additional

Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
	Segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of operating segments	5

Segment_Information_Segment_In

Segment Information - Segment Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net income	$4,799	($10,376)	($19,445)	($6,988)	($14,531)	($14,593)	$32,832	($5,240)	($35,850)	($1,532)	($14,000)
Total revenues	122,636	125,304	139,890	84,831	79,067	115,657	120,061	59,564	472,661	374,349	261,635
Total gross profit	17,371	12,969	31,439	17,895	-2,750	21,144	42,273	22,719	79,674	83,386	131,839
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									66,901	51,367	43,727
Corporate and unallocated depreciation and amortization expense									4,396	2,991	2,144
Total segment operating income (loss)	-2,710	-4,312	-15,043	2,995	-13,799	-24,758	27,688	8,990	-19,070	-1,879	85,458
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									22,334	16,385	10,524
Income tax (benefit) expense									-1,502	26,306	-4,375
Total segment net income (loss)	-3,729	-10,445	-21,466	-4,123	-19,701	-27,136	45,802	7,679	-39,763	6,644	65,063
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	11,539	-1,242	-1,567	-1,471	-1,775	3,558	-1,496	-6,893	7,259	-6,606	-37,376
Net income (loss)	7,810	-11,687	-23,033	-5,594	-21,476	-23,578	44,306	786	-32,504	38	27,687
Total asset	828,150				703,590				828,150	703,590
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures									174,511	104,705	59,131
RNP [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									8,768	7,945	11,773
Corporate and unallocated income (expenses) recorded as other income (expense)									4,800	-1,081	232
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									18,972	14,096	2,226
Income tax (benefit) expense										303	-303
Parent Company [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total asset	1,982				4,670				1,982	4,670
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures										6	430
Reportable Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									30,091	18,573	8,522
Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses									3,817	2,395	1,390
Corporate and unallocated depreciation and amortization expense									35,825	20,466	12,460
Total segment other operating expenses									27,432	30,907	510
Total segment operating income (loss)									18,334	31,511	121,417
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									2,982	1,763	194
Total segment net income (loss)									14,679	28,674	119,154
Capital expenditures
Total depreciation and amortization recorded in cost of sales									32,008	18,071	11,070
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net income									14,679	28,674	119,154
Total asset	782,818				594,752				782,818	594,752
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									28,043	24,849	23,432
Corporate and unallocated depreciation and amortization expense									579	596	754
Corporate and unallocated income (expenses) recorded as other income (expense)									-1,634	19	-2,708
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									380	532	9,055
Income tax (benefit) expense									-866	26,747	-4,072
RNP Partnership and Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total asset	34,071				42,078				34,071	42,078
Corporate and Unallocated Expenses Recorded as Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total asset	9,279				62,090				9,279	62,090
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures									1,437	808	1,130
East Dubuque [Member]
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures									24,872	57,981	56,050
East Dubuque [Member] | Reportable Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									196,379	177,700	224,205
Total gross profit									74,785	80,883	133,543
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									4,165	4,576	6,242
Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses									194	191	807
Total segment other operating expenses									537	806	510
Total segment operating income (loss)									69,888	75,310	125,984
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									85		194
Total segment net income (loss)									69,803	75,244	123,721
Total asset	186,508				175,430				186,508	175,430
Capital expenditures
Total depreciation and amortization recorded in cost of sales									15,718	9,048	10,690
Pasadena [Member]
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures									46,791	32,307	1,521
Pasadena [Member] | Reportable Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									138,233	133,675	37,430
Total gross profit									-14,308	-9,529	-1,704
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									5,078	4,764	361
Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses									1,315	3,886	583
Total segment other operating expenses									27,207	30,029
Total segment operating income (loss)									-47,907	-48,208	-2,648
Corporate and unallocated interest expense										8
Total segment net income (loss)									-47,925	-48,357	-2,648
Total asset	193,737				188,836				193,737	188,836
Capital expenditures
Total depreciation and amortization recorded in cost of sales									7,030	4,187	380
Fulghum Fibers [Member]
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures									21,683	2,244
Fulghum Fibers [Member] | Reportable Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									101,849	62,974
Total gross profit									12,444	12,032
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									6,399	3,754
Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses									2,088	-1,708
Total segment other operating expenses									38	72
Total segment operating income (loss)									3,919	9,914
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									2,590	1,755
Total segment net income (loss)									75	6,967
Total asset	197,418				188,397				197,418	188,397
Capital expenditures
Total depreciation and amortization recorded in cost of sales									7,374	4,836
Wood Pellets Industrial [Member]
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures									79,603	11,359
Wood Pellets Industrial [Member] | Reportable Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									4,086
Total gross profit									703
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									12,868	5,479	1,919
Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses									139	26
Total segment other operating expenses									-350
Total segment operating income (loss)									-11,954	-5,505	-1,919
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									3
Total segment net income (loss)									-11,616	-5,180	-1,919
Total asset	149,021				42,089				149,021	42,089
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total asset	56,134								56,134
Capital expenditures
Total capital expenditures									125
Wood Pellets NEWP [Member] | Reportable Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									32,114
Total gross profit									6,050
Corporate and unallocated expenses recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses									1,581
Total segment depreciation and amortization recorded in operating expenses									81
Total segment operating income (loss)									4,388
Corporate and unallocated interest expense									304
Total segment net income (loss)									4,342
Capital expenditures
Total depreciation and amortization recorded in cost of sales									$1,886

Segment_Information_Summary_of

Segment Information - Summary of Revenues by Geographic Area (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	$122,636	$125,304	$139,890	$84,831	$79,067	$115,657	$120,061	$59,564	$472,661	$374,349	$261,635
United States [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									425,768	352,008	261,635
Canada [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									4,086
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									$42,807	$22,341

Segment_Information_Summary_of1

Segment Information - Summary of Assets by Geographic Area (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$828,150	$703,590
United States [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	637,271	633,886
Canada [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	149,021	42,089
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$41,858	$27,615

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Common_Sha2

Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Allocated to Rentech - Basic and Diluted Net Income (loss) Per Common Share Attributable to the Company (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Numerator:
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Rentech common shareholders									($39,269)	$5,074	$23,376
Less: Dividends and accretion on 2014 Preferred Stock									3,840
Less: Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities										139	860
Income (loss) from continuing operations allocated to common shareholders									-43,109	4,935	22,516
Numerator:
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Rentech common shareholders	11,539	-1,242	-1,567	-1,471	-1,775	3,558	-1,496	-6,893	7,259	-6,606	-37,376
Less: Income from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities									267
Income (loss) from discontinued operations allocated to common shareholders									6,992	-6,606	-37,376
Numerator:
Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech common shareholders	4,799	-10,376	-19,445	-6,988	-14,531	-14,593	32,832	-5,240	-35,850	-1,532	-14,000
Less: Dividends and accretion on 2014 Preferred Stock									3,840
Less: Income allocated to participating securities									0	0	0
Net income (loss) allocated to common shareholders									($35,850)	($1,532)	($14,000)
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding									228,560	226,139	223,189
Effect of dilutive securities:
Diluted shares outstanding									228,560	233,703	230,524
Continuing operations	($0.04)	($0.05)	($0.08)	($0.02)	($0.06)	($0.08)	$0.15	$0.01	($0.19)	$0.02	$0.10
Discontinued operations	$0.05	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	$0.02	($0.01)	($0.03)	$0.03	($0.03)	($0.17)
Basic net income (loss) per common share	$0.01	($0.05)	($0.09)	($0.03)	($0.06)	($0.06)	$0.14	($0.02)	($0.16)	($0.01)	($0.06)
Continuing operations	($0.03)	($0.05)	($0.08)	($0.02)	($0.06)	($0.08)	$0.14	$0.01	($0.19)	$0.02	$0.10
Discontinued operations	$0.05	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	$0.02	($0.01)	($0.03)	$0.03	($0.03)	($0.16)
Diluted net income (loss) per common share	$0.01	($0.05)	($0.09)	($0.03)	($0.06)	($0.06)	$0.14	($0.02)	($0.16)	($0.01)	($0.06)
Common Stock Options [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities:
Effect of dilutive securities										1,525	1,686
Restricted Stock [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities:
Effect of dilutive securities										5,112	4,729
Warrants [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities:
Effect of dilutive securities										927	920

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Common_Sha3

Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share Allocated to Rentech - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Anti-dilutive common stock	60.7	3.8	4.3

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D2

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) - Selected Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Revenues	$122,636	$125,304	$139,890	$84,831	$79,067	$115,657	$120,061	$59,564	$472,661	$374,349	$261,635
Gross profit (loss)	17,371	12,969	31,439	17,895	-2,750	21,144	42,273	22,719	79,674	83,386	131,839
Operating income (loss)	-2,710	-4,312	-15,043	2,995	-13,799	-24,758	27,688	8,990	-19,070	-1,879	85,458
Income (loss) from continuing operations	-3,729	-10,445	-21,466	-4,123	-19,701	-27,136	45,802	7,679	-39,763	6,644	65,063
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	11,539	-1,242	-1,567	-1,471	-1,775	3,558	-1,496	-6,893	7,259	-6,606	-37,376
Net income (loss)	7,810	-11,687	-23,033	-5,594	-21,476	-23,578	44,306	786	-32,504	38	27,687
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	-3,011	1,311	3,588	-1,394	6,945	8,985	-11,474	-6,026	494	-1,570	-41,687
Net income (loss) attributable to Rentech common shareholders	$4,799	($10,376)	($19,445)	($6,988)	($14,531)	($14,593)	$32,832	($5,240)	($35,850)	($1,532)	($14,000)
Basic:
Continuing operations	($0.04)	($0.05)	($0.08)	($0.02)	($0.06)	($0.08)	$0.15	$0.01	($0.19)	$0.02	$0.10
Discontinued operations	$0.05	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	$0.02	($0.01)	($0.03)	$0.03	($0.03)	($0.17)
Net income (loss)	$0.01	($0.05)	($0.09)	($0.03)	($0.06)	($0.06)	$0.14	($0.02)	($0.16)	($0.01)	($0.06)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	($0.03)	($0.05)	($0.08)	($0.02)	($0.06)	($0.08)	$0.14	$0.01	($0.19)	$0.02	$0.10
Discontinued operations	$0.05	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	($0.01)	$0.02	($0.01)	($0.03)	$0.03	($0.03)	($0.16)
Net income (loss)	$0.01	($0.05)	($0.09)	($0.03)	($0.06)	($0.06)	$0.14	($0.02)	($0.16)	($0.01)	($0.06)

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D3

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Interim Reporting [Line Items]
Agrifos settlement income	$5,600,000		$5,632,000
Loss on gas derivatives.	3,100,000
Severance costs of former officer	2,000,000
Write-down of inventory	1,500,000	2,800,000	6,045,000	12,360,000
Alternative Energy Technologies [Member]
Interim Reporting [Line Items]
Gain on sale of business	15,300,000
East Dubuque [Member]
Interim Reporting [Line Items]
Turnaround expenses						7,800,000
Fixed operating cost during idle time						4,200,000
Insurance deductible for the fire					1,000,000
Pasadena [Member]
Interim Reporting [Line Items]
Write-down of inventory						5,100,000
Turnaround expenses						$1,700,000

Subsequent_Events_Additional_I

Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 12, 2015	Jan. 23, 2015	Feb. 25, 2015	Apr. 09, 2014	Apr. 16, 2014
				t
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Date of declaration for distribution of cash to partnership's common unitholders	12-Feb-15
Unitholders distribution record date	23-Feb-15
Debt instrument interest rate description	Tranche A Loans under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to the greater of (i) LIBOR plus 7.00% and (ii) 8.00% per annum. Tranche B Loans and Tranche C Loans under the A&R GSO Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to the greater of (i) LIBOR plus 9.00% and (ii) 10.00% per annum. In the event the Borrower prepays any of the Loans on or prior to February 12, 2016, subject to certain exceptions, it will be required to pay a prepayment fee equal to 1.00% of the amount of the prepayment.
Line of credit facility interest rate percentage					8.00%
Purchase price per share					$2.22
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Line of credit facility interest rate percentage					7.00%
RNHI [Member] | Tranchea [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Term loan drawn						$50,000,000
RNP [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of common units owned by parent to be released no less than April 2, 2015	3,100,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Cash distribution per unit declared to the partnership's common unitholders		$0.30
Total distributions to partnership's common unitholders		11,700,000
Increase in preferred stock authorized shares		9,453,314
Subsequent Event [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate of term loan			2.25%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Term Loan [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt instrument amortized period			7 years
Subsequent Event [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Prepayment fee percentage		1.00%
Common units held by RNP owned by the borrower		13,796,685
Common units released upon delivery of other collateral		3,114,439
Percentage of original issue discount on loan		2.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Minimum [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Limited liability company interest owned by loan parties		50.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Series E Preferred Stock [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Purchase price of the Series E preferred stock		$1,000
Purchase price per share		$2.22
Subsequent Event [Member] | Tranchea [Member] | Minimum [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Line of credit facility libor plus interest rate percentage		7.00%
Line of credit facility interest rate percentage		8.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Tranche B [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Term loan drawn		25,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | Tranche B [Member] | Minimum [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Line of credit facility libor plus interest rate percentage		9.00%
Line of credit facility interest rate percentage		10.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Tranche C [Member] | Minimum [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Line of credit facility libor plus interest rate percentage		9.00%
Line of credit facility interest rate percentage		10.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Wood Pellets Industrial [Member] | 2015 Drax Contract [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Maximum quantity required to deliver under Drax				240,000
Price reduction on pellet shipment				900,000
Penalty paid				170,000
Original pellet deliveries expected to deliver, year				Portions of the original 2015 pellet deliveries are being pushed to future years at 2015 pricing
Subsequent Event [Member] | Allegheny [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Term loan period			5 years
Acquired inventory			300,000
Acquired assets			7,200,000
Term loan amount			8,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | RNHI [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Received distributions to partnership's common unitholders		7,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | RNHI [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Term loan maturity date		9-Apr-19
Number of tranches of term loans		3
Subsequent Event [Member] | RNHI [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member] | Unplanned downtime and repairs [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Cash distribution		13,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | RNHI [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member] | Lower product prices and higher raw material prices [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Cash distribution		5,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | RNHI [Member] | Tranche B [Member] | Maximum [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Delayed draw term loan		45,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | RNHI [Member] | Tranche C [Member] | Maximum [Member] | A&R GSO Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Delayed draw term loan		$18,000,000

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual1

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance			$100
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Expense	500		0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions and Write-Offs			-100
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance	500
Deferred Tax Valuation Account [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance	28,704	39,128	32,018
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Expense	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions and Write-Offs	9,498	-10,424	7,110
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance	38,202	28,704	39,128
Reserve for REN earn-out [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance			697
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Expense			0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions and Write-Offs			($697)

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual2

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Parenthetical) (Detail) (Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Discontinued Operations [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Discontinued Operations [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Deferred tax valuation allowance	$1,130