| Cover Document | Feb. 28, 2020 |
| Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000874761 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| City Area Code | 703 |
| Local Phone Number | 522-1315 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 28, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | THE AES CORPORATION |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4300 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1100 |
| Entity File Number | 001-12291 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 54-1163725 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Arlington |
| Entity Address, State or Province | VA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 22203 |
| Trading Symbol | AES |
| Entity Listing, Description | NYSE |
| Amendment Flag | false |
