Sunedison (SUNEQ) 10-Q 9 May 14 2014 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information Document	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	1-May-14
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'SUNEDISON, INC.	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000945436	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Trading Symbol	'SUNE	'
Document Period End Date	31-Mar-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q1	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	267,811,765

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Net sales	$546.50	$443.60
Cost of goods sold	499.3	393.9
Gross profit	47.2	49.7
Operating expenses:	'	'
Marketing and administration	109.8	70.3
Research and development	12.9	17.4
Restructuring charges (reversals)	2.6	-4.5
Operating loss	-78.1	-33.5
Non-operating expense (income):	'	'
Interest expense	67.6	47.5
Interest income	-2.9	-0.5
Loss on convertible notes derivatives, net (see Note 4)	451.8	0
Other, net	2	1.1
Total non-operating expense	518.5	48.1
Loss before income taxes and equity in earnings (loss) of joint ventures	-596.6	-81.6
Income tax expense	20.5	19.5
Loss before equity in earnings (loss) of joint ventures	-617.1	-101.1
Equity in earnings (loss) of joint ventures, net of tax	1.1	-0.3
Net loss	-616	-101.4
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	2.4	12
Net loss attributable to SunEdison stockholders	($613.60)	($89.40)
Basic loss per share (see Note 8)	($2.31)	($0.40)
Diluted loss per share (see Note 8)	($2.31)	($0.40)

Condensed_Consolidating_Statem

Condensed Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Statement (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'
Net loss	($616)	($101.40)
Net foreign currency translation adjustment	1.2	-34.4
Net unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities	0	-0.6
Gain on hedging instruments	9.4	0.6
Actuarial gain and amortization of prior service cost	0.7	0
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	11.3	-34.4
Total comprehensive loss	-604.7	-135.8
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	2.4	12
Net foreign currency translation adjustment attributable to noncontrolling interests	0.1	1.3
Comprehensive loss attributable to SunEdison stockholders	($602.20)	($122.50)

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$463.40	$573.50
Cash committed for construction projects, including consolidated variable interest entities of $141.3 and $143.6 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	178.2	258
Restricted cash	63.2	70.1
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $4.4 and $4.9 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	312.5	351.5
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $4.4 and $4.9 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	215.4	248.4
Solar energy systems held for development and sale	448	460.1
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	453	423.4
Total current assets	2,133.70	2,385
Investments	32.1	41.1
Property, plant and equipment, net:	'	'
Non-solar energy systems, net of accumulated depreciation of $1,266.1 and $1,228.6 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	1,101.40	1,108.70
Solar energy systems, including consolidated variable interest entities of $231.7 and $157.5 in 2014 and 2013, respectively, net of accumulated depreciation of $134.3 and $119.7 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	2,394.50	2,014.20
Restricted cash	94.4	73.8
Note hedge derivative asset	814.6	514.8
Other assets	595.4	542.9
Total assets	7,166.10	6,680.50
Current liabilities:	'	'
Current portion of Semiconductor Materials debt	2.8	2.8
Current portion of Solar Energy systems debt, including financing and capital leaseback obligations, including consolidated variable interest entities of $9.6 and $5.8 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	449	394.7
Accounts payable	818.8	867.7
Accrued liabilities	462.8	432.7
Current portion of deferred revenue	112.5	154.7
Current portion of customer and other deposits	37	36.7
Total current liabilities	1,882.90	1,889.30
Solar Energy non-systems debt	879.7	868.2
Solar Energy systems debt, less current portion, including financing and capital leaseback obligations and including consolidated variable interest entities of $322.8 and $234.6 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	2,603.50	2,302.90
Customer and other deposits, less current portion	80.2	103.3
Deferred revenue, less current portion	121.6	90
Conversion option derivative liability	822.9	506.5
Warrant derivative liability	705.7	270.5
Other liabilities	298.3	301
Total liabilities	7,402.60	6,339.30
Stockholders’ (deficit) equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 50.0 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding in 2014 and 2013	0	0
Common stock, $.01 par value, 300.0 shares authorized, 267.6 and 266.9 issued and outstanding in 2014 and 2013, respectively	2.7	2.7
Additional paid-in capital	471.8	457.7
Accumulated deficit	-781.5	-168
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-48.6	-60
Treasury stock, less than 0.1 shares in 2014 and 2013, respectively	-0.5	-0.2
Total SunEdison stockholders’ (deficit) equity	-356.1	232.2
Noncontrolling interests	119.6	109
Total stockholders’ (deficit) equity	-236.5	341.2
Total liabilities and stockholders’ (deficit) equity	7,166.10	6,680.50
Solar Energy [Member]	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'
Current portion of Solar Energy systems debt, including financing and capital leaseback obligations, including consolidated variable interest entities of $9.6 and $5.8 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	449	394.7
Solar Energy systems debt, less current portion, including financing and capital leaseback obligations and including consolidated variable interest entities of $322.8 and $234.6 in 2014 and 2013, respectively	$2,603.50	$2,302.90

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$4.40	$4.90
Non-solar energy systems, accumulated depreciation	1,266.10	1,228.60
Cash Committed for Construction, Variable Interest Entities	463.4	573.5
Restricted cash, including consolidated variable interest entities	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment - Solar energy systems, consolidated variable interest entities	231.7	157.5
Property, Plant and Equipment - Solar energy systems, accumulated depreciation	134.3	119.7
Short-term solar energy system financing, current portion of solar energy system financing and capital lease obligations, consolidated variable interest entities	9.6	5.8
Long-term solar energy system financing and capital lease obligations, consolidated variable interest entities	322.8	234.6
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	300	300
Common stock, shares issued	267.6	266.9
Preferred stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	50	50
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Treasury stock, shares	0	0
Variable Interest Entity (VIE) or Potential VIE, Information Unavailability [Member]	'	'
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'
Cash Committed for Construction, Variable Interest Entities	$141.30	$143.60

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'
Net loss	($616)	($101.40)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	62	60.8
Stock-based compensation	8.6	7.2
Expense for deferred taxes	-3	-7.5
Deferred revenue	-50	-1.1
Loss on convertible notes derivatives, net	451.8	0
Other non-cash	2.4	-9.8
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:	'	'
Accounts receivable	53.6	-60.5
Inventories	31.5	18.6
Solar energy systems held for development and sale	-80.9	-36.8
Prepaid and other current assets	-31.3	-16.1
Accounts payable	-113.6	-67.5
Deferred revenue for solar energy systems	57.9	36.4
Customer and other deposits	-6.2	-19.6
Accrued liabilities	32.2	46.7
Other long term liabilities	-3	6.8
Other	-11.2	25.2
Net cash used in operating activities	-215.2	-118.6
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'
Capital expenditures	-20.1	-30.8
Construction of solar energy systems	-326.4	-47.4
Purchases of cost and equity method investments	-18.7	-18.5
Net proceeds from equity method investments	0.2	11.7
Change in restricted cash	-14.2	2.8
Change in cash committed for construction projects	80.8	2.7
Cash paid for acquisition, net of cash acquired	-14.1	0
Net cash used in investing activities	-312.5	-79.5
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'
Cash paid for contingent consideration for acquistions	-1.7	-0.8
Proceeds from solar energy system financing and capital lease obligations	461.8	98.5
Repayments of solar energy system financing and capital lease obligations	-20.9	-12.4
Net repayments of customer deposits related to long-term supply agreements	0	-26.2
Common stock repurchased	0	-0.2
Proceeds from noncontrolling interests	10	0.1
Debt financing fees	-31.5	-8.1
Other	1.7	0
Net cash provided by financing activities	419.4	50.9
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-1.8	-5.8
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-110.1	-153
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	573.5	553.8
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	463.4	400.8
Supplemental schedule of non-cash of financing activities:	'	'
Net debt transferred to and assumed by buyer upon sale of solar energy systems	$83.80	$33.30

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of SunEdison, Inc. and subsidiaries ("SunEdison"), in our opinion, include all adjustments (consisting of normal, recurring items) necessary to present fairly our financial position and results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. SunEdison has presented the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission's (the "SEC's") requirements for Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X and consequently, these financial statements do not include all disclosures required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP"). These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, which contains SunEdison's audited financial statements for such year. Operating results for the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014.
	Reclassifications
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for prior periods contain certain reclassifications to conform to the presentation used in the current period. In our December 31, 2013 consolidated financial statements, we revised the presentation of cash and cash equivalents to separately disclose cash committed for construction projects. As a result, amounts in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows have been revised from the amounts previously reported to reflect this presentation.
	Use of Estimates
	In preparing our condensed consolidated financial statements, we use estimates and assumptions that may affect reported amounts and disclosures. Estimates are used when accounting for investments; depreciation; amortization; leases; accrued liabilities including restructuring, warranties, and employee benefits; derivatives, including the embedded conversion option, note hedges, and warrants associated with our outstanding senior convertible notes; stock-based compensation; income taxes; solar energy system installation and related costs; percentage-of-completion on long-term construction contracts; the fair value of assets and liabilities recorded in connection with business combinations; and asset valuations, including allowances, among others. These estimates and assumptions are based on current facts, historical experience and various other factors we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities and the recording of revenue, costs and expenses that are not readily apparent from other sources. To the extent there are material differences between the estimates and actual results, our future results of operations would be affected.

Restructuring_and_Impairment_C

Restructuring and Impairment Charges	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Restructuring and Impairment Charges	'
	During the second half of 2011, the semiconductor and solar industries experienced downturns, of which the downturn in solar was more severe. In order to better align our business to the then current and expected market conditions in the semiconductor and solar markets, as well as to improve our overall cost competitiveness and cash flows across both segments, we committed to a series of restructuring actions to reduce our global workforce, right size production capacity and accelerate operating cost reductions in 2012 and beyond (the "2011 Global Plan"). These restructuring actions included reducing the total workforce by approximately 20%, shuttering our Merano, Italy polysilicon facility, reducing production capacity at our Portland, Oregon crystal facility, slowing the ramp of the Kuching, Malaysia facility, as well as consolidating our solar wafering and solar energy systems operations into a single Solar Energy business unit effective January 1, 2012. The 2011 Global Plan was substantially completed in 2012, except for certain voluntary termination benefits and ongoing negotiations with certain vendors and suppliers, including those affecting our Merano, Italy polysilicon facility, related to these restructuring activities.
	During the three months ended March 31, 2014, $1.4 million of income was recognized pertaining to the 2011 Global Plan primarily as a result of a reversal of liabilities related to the costs associated with the Merano, Italy polysilicon and other semiconductor facilities due to settlements of certain obligations and changes in estimates, offset by immaterial expenses related to various restructuring activities.
	Details of expenses, cash payments and expected costs related to the 2011 Global Plan are set forth in the following table:
																		As of March 31, 2014
	In millions	Accrued,		Year-to-Date			Cash			Non-Cash Settlements			Currency			Accrued March 31, 2014		Cumulative		Total Costs
		December  31, 2013		Restructuring			Payments											Costs		Expected to be Incurred
				(Reversals)Charges														Incurred
	Severance and other employee benefits	$	21.3	$	(0.4	)	$	(0.7	)	$	(0.9	)	$	—		$	19.3	$	51.9	$	51.9
	Contract termination	40.2		—			(5.3		)	—			—			34.9		165.1		165.1
	Other	24.3		(1.0		)	(3.0		)	1.5			(0.1		)	21.7		47.6		47.6
	Total	$	85.8	$	(1.4	)	$	(9.0	)	$	0.6		$	(0.1	)	$	75.9	$	264.6	$	264.6
	During the first quarter of 2014, we announced a plan to consolidate the Semiconductor Materials segment's crystal operations. The consolidation will include transitioning small diameter crystal activities from our St. Peters, Missouri facility to other crystal facilities in Korea, Taiwan and Italy. The consolidation of crystal activities will affect approximately 120 employees in St. Peters and will be implemented over the 12 months following commencement of the plan. Charges in the amount of $4.0 million were recorded in the first quarter of 2014 and are included within restructuring charges (reversals) on the condensed consolidated statement of operations.

Inventories

Inventories	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories consist of the following:
		As of		As of
	In millions	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Raw materials and supplies	$	75.8	$	114.7
	Goods and work in process	105		98.8
	Finished goods	34.6		34.9
	Total inventories	$	215.4	$	248.4

Solar_Energy_Systems_Held_for_

Solar Energy Systems Held for Development and Sale	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Solar Energy Systems Held For Development and Sale [Abstract]	'
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS HELD FOR DEVELOPMENT AND SALE [Text Block]	'
	Solar energy systems held for development and sale consist of the following:
		As of		As of
	In millions	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Under development	$	448	$	419.7
	Systems held for sale	—		40.4
	Total solar energy systems held for development and sale	$	448	$	460.1

Debt_and_Capital_Lease_Obligat

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]	'
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	Debt (including consolidated variable interest entities, "VIEs") and leaseback obligations outstanding consist of the following:
			As of March 31, 2014								As of December 31, 2013
	In millions		Total			Current and Short-Term			Long-Term		Total		Current and Short-Term		Long-Term
	Solar Energy non-systems debt:
	Convertible senior notes due 2018, net of discount		$	466.4		$	—		$	466.4	$	460	$	—	$	460
	Convertible senior notes due 2021, net of discount		413.3			—			413.3		408.2		—		408.2
	Total Solar Energy non-solar energy system debt		$	879.7		$	—		$	879.7	$	868.2	$	—	$	868.2
	Solar Energy systems debt, including financing and capital leaseback obligations:
	Short-term debt, weighted average interest rate of 6.51% and 6.55%, respectively		$	99.3		$	99.3		$	—	$	68.9	$	68.9	$	—
	System pre-construction, construction and term debt		1,012.50			322.7			689.8		1,028.00		305		723
	Capital leaseback obligations		84.7			3.9			80.8		94		4.5		89.5
	Financing leaseback obligations		1,382.10			13.1			1,369.00		1,384.80		16.2		1,368.60
	Acquisition facility		250			2.5			247.5		—		—		—
	Other system financing transactions		223.9			7.5			216.4		121.9		0.1		121.8
	Total Solar Energy systems debt, financing and capital leaseback obligations		$	3,052.50		$	449		$	2,603.50	$	2,697.60	$	394.7	$	2,302.90
	Semiconductor Materials debt:
	Long-term notes		$	10.6		$	2.8		$	7.8	$	10.4	$	2.8	$	7.6
	Total Semiconductor Materials debt		$	10.6		$	2.8		$	7.8	$	10.4	$	2.8	$	7.6
	Total debt outstanding		$	3,942.80		$	451.8		$	3,491.00	$	3,576.20	$	397.5	$	3,178.70
	Solar Energy Non-systems Debt
	Convertible Senior Notes
	On December 20, 2013, we issued $600.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 2.00% convertible senior notes due 2018 (the "2018 Notes") and $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2.75% convertible senior notes due 2021 (the "2021 Notes", and together with the 2018 Notes, the "Notes") in a private placement offering. We received net proceeds, after payment of debt financing fees, of $1,167.3 million in the offering, before the redemption of the $550.0 million outstanding aggregate principal amount of the 7.75% senior notes due 2019 and the repayment of the $200.0 million outstanding aggregate principle amount of the 10.75% second lien term loan and before payment of the net cost of the call spread overlay described below.
	Interest on the 2018 Notes is payable on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on April 1, 2014. Interest on the 2021 Notes is payable on January 1 and July 1 of each year, beginning on July 1, 2014. The 2018 Notes and the 2021 Notes mature on October 1, 2018 and January 1, 2021, respectively, unless earlier converted or purchased.
	The Notes are convertible at any time until the close of business on the business day immediately preceding July 1, 2018 (in the case of the 2018 Notes) or October 1, 2020 (in the case of the 2021 Notes) only under the following circumstances: (1) during any calendar quarter commencing after the calendar quarter ending March 31, 2014, if the closing sale price of our common stock, for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) in the period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the last trading day of the calendar quarter immediately preceding the calendar quarter in which the conversion occurs, is more than 120% of the conversion price of the Notes in effect on each applicable trading day; (2) during the five consecutive business day period following any 10 consecutive trading-day period in which the trading price for the notes for each such trading day is less than 98% of the closing sale price of our common stock on such trading day multiplied by the applicable conversion rate on such trading day; or (3) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. On and after July 1, 2018 (in the case of the 2018 Notes) or October 1, 2020 (in the case of the 2021 Notes) and until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately prior to the applicable stated maturity date, the Notes are convertible regardless of the foregoing conditions based on an initial conversion price of $14.62 per share of our common stock.
	The conversion price will be subject to adjustment in certain events, such as distributions of dividends or stock splits. The Notes are convertible only into cash, shares of our common stock or a combination thereof at our election. However, we must settle conversions solely in cash until we have obtained the requisite approvals from our stockholders to (i) amend our restated certificate of incorporation to sufficiently increase the number of authorized but unissued shares of our common stock to permit the conversion and settlement of all Notes into shares of our common stock, and (ii) authorize the issuance of the maximum numbers of shares described above in accordance with the continued listing standards of The New York Stock Exchange. Proposals related to both of these items are subject to approval by our stockholders at our annual meeting scheduled for May 29, 2014. Holders may also require us to repurchase all or a portion of the Notes upon a fundamental change, as defined in the indenture agreement, at a cash repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. In the event of certain events of default, such as our failure to make certain payments, pay debts as they become due or perform or observe certain obligations thereunder, the trustee or holders of a specified amount of then-outstanding Notes will have the right to declare all amounts then outstanding due and payable. We may not redeem the Notes prior to the applicable stated maturity date.
	The Notes are general unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payment to any of our future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Notes; equal in right of payment to our existing and future unsecured indebtedness that is not so subordinated; effectively subordinated in right of payment to any of our secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness; and effectively subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by our subsidiaries.
	During the period in which we are required to settle conversions in cash, the embedded conversion options (the "Conversion Options") within the Notes are required to be separated from the Notes and accounted for separately as derivative instruments (derivative liabilities) with changes in fair value reported in the condensed consolidated statements of operations, as further discussed in the Loss on Convertible Notes Derivatives section below. Upon obtaining the requisite approvals from our stockholders discussed above, the Conversion Options will be considered equity instruments. At such time, the Conversion Options will be remeasured at fair value, with any change in fair value reported in the condensed consolidated statement of operations, and reclassified to Stockholders' Equity.
	Call Spread Overlay for Convertible Senior Notes
	Concurrent with the issuance of the Notes, we entered into privately negotiated convertible note hedge transactions (collectively, the "Note Hedges") and warrant transactions (collectively, the "Warrants" and together with the Note Hedges, the “Call Spread Overlay”), with certain of the initial purchasers of the Notes or their affiliates. Assuming full performance by the counterparties, the Call Spread Overlay is designed to effectively reduce our potential payout over the principal amount on the Notes upon conversion of the Notes.
	Under the terms of the Note Hedges, we purchased from affiliates of certain of the initial purchasers of the Notes options to acquire, at an exercise price of $14.62 per share, subject to anti-dilution adjustments, up to 82.1 million shares of our common stock. Each Note Hedge is a separate transaction, entered into by the company with each option counterparty, and is not part of the terms of the Notes. Each Note Hedge is exercisable upon the conversion of the Notes and expires on the corresponding maturity dates of the Notes. The option counterparties are generally obligated to settle their obligations to use upon exercise of the Note Hedges in the same manner as we satisfy our obligations to holders of the Notes.
	Under the terms of the Warrants, we sold to affiliates of certain of the initial purchasers of the Notes warrants to acquire, on the stated expiration date of each Warrant, up to 82.1 million shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $18.35 per share, subject to anti-dilution adjustments. Each Warrant transaction is a separate transaction, entered into by the company with each option counterparty, and is not part of the terms of the Notes.
	During the period in which we are required to settle the Note Hedges and Warrants in cash, these instruments are required to be accounted for as derivative instruments with changes in fair value reported in the condensed consolidated statements of operations, as further discussed in the Loss on Convertible Notes Derivatives section below. Upon obtaining the requisite approvals from our stockholders discussed above, the Note Hedges and Warrants will be considered equity instruments. At such time, the Note Hedges and Warrants will be remeasured at fair value, with any changes in fair value reported in the condensed consolidated statement of operations, and reclassified to Stockholders' Equity.
	Loss on Convertible Notes Derivatives
	For the three months ended March 31, 2014, we recognized a net loss of $451.8 million related to the change in the fair value of the Conversion Options, the Note Hedges and Warrants (the "Convertible Notes Derivatives"), which is reported in loss on derivatives, net in the condensed consolidated statement of operations, as follows:
	In millions	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Conversion Options	$	(316.4	)
	Note Hedges	299.8
	Warrants	(435.2		)
	Total loss on convertible note derivatives, net	$	(451.8	)
	The Conversion Options, Note Hedges and Warrants derivative instruments are measured at fair value using a Black-Scholes valuation model as these instruments are not traded on an open market.  Significant inputs to the valuation model, which have been identified as Level 2 inputs, as of March 31, 2014, were as follows:
		Conversion Option			Note Hedges			Warrants
		Due 2018	Due 2021		Due 2018	Due 2021		Due 2018	Due 2021
	Stock price	$18.84	$18.84		$18.84	$18.84		$18.84	$18.84
	Exercise price	$14.62	$14.62		$14.62	$14.62		$18.35	$18.35
	Risk-free rate	1.62%	2.30%		1.60%	2.28%		1.76%	2.38%
	Volatility	48.00%	48.00%		48.00%	48.00%		45.00%	45.00%
	Dividend yield	—%	—%		—%	—%		—%	—%
	Maturity	2018	2021		2018	2021		2018	2021
	Further details of the inputs above are as follows:
	•	Stock price - The closing price of our common stock on the last trading day of the quarter
	•	Exercise price - The exercise (or conversion) price of the derivative instrument
	•	Risk-free rate - The Treasury Strip rate associated with the life of the derivative instrument
	•	Volatility - The volatility of our common stock over the life of the derivative instrument
	Assuming all other inputs were held constant, a 10% change in the stock price input would result in a change to the fair value estimates for each of the Conversion Option derivative liability, Note Hedges derivative asset and Warrant derivative liability of between $110.0 million million to $130.0 million. Assuming all other inputs were held constant, a 100 basis point change in the volatility input would result in a change to the fair value estimates for each of the conversion option derivative liability, Note Hedges derivative asset and Warrant derivative liability of between $9.0 million to $12.0 million.
	Bridge Credit Facility
	On December 20, 2013, we entered into a credit agreement with the lenders identified therein and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as administrative agent, lender, and letter of credit issuer (the “Bridge Credit Facility”). The Bridge Credit Facility provided for a senior secured letter of credit facility in an aggregate principal amount up to $320.0 million and had a term ending December 15, 2014. The purpose of the Bridge Credit Facility was to backstop outstanding letters of credit issued by Bank of America, N.A. under our former revolving credit facility, which was terminated simultaneously with our entry into the Bridge Credit Facility (subject to our obligation to continue paying fees in respect of outstanding letters of credit).
	The Bridge Credit Facility was terminated on February 28, 2014, in connection with entering into the Solar Energy credit facility discussed below. The termination of the Bridge Credit Facility resulted in the writeoff of $2.5 million in unamortized deferred financing fees, which is reported in interest expense in the condensed consolidated statement of operations.
	Solar Energy Credit Facility
	On February 28, 2014, we entered into a credit agreement with the lenders identified therein, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent, Goldman Sachs Bank USA and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as joint lead arrangers and joint syndication agents, and Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Wells Fargo Securities, LLC and Macquarie Capital (USA) Inc., as joint bookrunners (the “Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility provides for a senior secured letter of credit facility in an aggregate principal amount up to $265.0 million and has a term ending February 28, 2017. The Credit Facility will be used to backstop outstanding letters of credit issued by Bank of America, N.A. under our former revolving credit facility until they expire, as well as for general corporate purposes. Subject to certain conditions, we may request that the aggregate commitments be increased to an amount not to exceed $400.0 million. We paid fees of $5.8 million upon entry into the Credit Facility, which were recognized as deferred financing fees.
	Our obligations under the Credit Facility are guaranteed by certain of our domestic subsidiaries. Our obligations and the guaranty obligations of our subsidiaries are secured by first priority liens on and security interests in substantially all present and future assets of the company and the subsidiary guarantors, including a pledge of the capital stock of certain of our domestic and foreign subsidiaries.
	Interest under the Credit Facility accrues on the daily amount available to be drawn under outstanding letters of credit or bankers' acceptances, at an annual rate of 3.75%. Interest is due and payable in arrears at the end of each fiscal quarter and on the maturity date of the Credit Facility. Drawn amounts on letters of credit are due within seven business days, and interest accrues on drawn amounts at a base rate plus 2.75%.
	The Credit Facility contains representations, covenants and events of default typical for credit arrangements of comparable size, including maintaining a consolidated leverage ratio of 3.0 to 1.0 which excludes the Notes (measurement commencing with the last day of the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2014) and a minimum liquidity amount (measurement commencing with the last day of the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2014) of the lesser of (i) $400.0 million and (ii) the sum of (x) $300.0 million plus (y) the amount, if any, by which the aggregate commitments exceed $300.0 million at such time. The Credit Facility also contains a customary material adverse effects clause and a cross default clause. The cross default clause is applicable to defaults on other indebtedness in excess of $50.0 million, including the Notes but excluding our non-recourse indebtedness.
	The Credit Facility also contains mandatory prepayment and/or cash collateralization provisions applicable to specified asset sale transactions as well as our receipt of proceeds from certain insurance or condemnation events and the incurrence of additional indebtedness.
As of March 31, 2014, we had no borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility, although we had $258.5 million of outstanding third party letters of credit backed by the Credit Facility, which reduced the available capacity. Therefore, funds available under the Credit Facility were $6.5 million as of March 31, 2014.
Other Financing Arrangements
We have short-term committed financing arrangements of $27.4 million at March 31, 2014, of which there was $0.1 million of short-term borrowings outstanding as of March 31, 2014. Of this amount, $13.9 million is unavailable because it relates to the issuance of third party letters of credit. Interest rates are negotiated at the time of the borrowings.
Solar Energy Systems Debt, Including Financing and Capital Leaseback Obligations
Our solar energy systems for which we have short-term and long-term debt, capital leaseback and finance obligations are included in separate legal entities. Of this total debt outstanding, $3,052.5 million relates to project specific non-recourse financing that is backed by solar energy system operating assets. This debt has recourse to those separate legal entities but no recourse to us under the terms of the applicable agreements. These finance obligations are fully collateralized by the related solar energy system assets and may also include limited guarantees by us related to operations, maintenance and certain indemnities.
Project Construction Facilities
On September 30, 2011, we amended and restated our non-recourse project construction financing revolver, which had a term of three years, from $50.0 million to $300.0 million. During 2012, due to various amendments and lenders entering and exiting the facility, the capacity was lowered from $300.0 million to $150.0 million. Additionally, under the terms of the 2012 amendments, depending on the credit ratings issued by the two credit agencies that provide ratings on the company, we were required to post, at our election, a letter of credit or surety bond equal to 15% of the total outstanding balance in order to continue to make additional borrowings under this facility. Interest on borrowings under the agreement were based on our election at LIBOR plus an applicable margin or at a defined prime rate plus an applicable margin. The construction financing revolver also required us to pay various fees, including a commitment fee. This construction financing facility was terminated in connection with the closing of the new construction facility discussed below.
On March 26, 2014, we entered into a financing agreement with certain lenders; Wilmington Trust, National Association, as administrative agent; Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as collateral agent and loan paying agent; and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as lead arranger, bookrunner, structuring bank and documentation agent (the “Construction Facility”). The Construction Facility provides for a senior secured revolving credit facility in an amount up to $150.0 million and has a term ending March 26, 2017. The Construction Facility will be used to support the development and acquisition of new projects in the United States and Canada. Subject to certain conditions, we may request that the aggregate commitments be increased to an amount not to exceed $300.0 million. We paid fees of $7.5 million upon entry into the Construction Facility, which were recognized as deferred financing fees.
Loans under the Construction Facility are non-recourse debt to entities outside of the project company legal entities that subscribe to the debt and are secured by a pledge of collateral of the project company, including the project contracts and equipment. Interest on loans under the Construction Facility is based on our election of either LIBOR plus an applicable margin of 3.5%, or a defined prime rate plus an applicable margin of 2.5%. As of March 31, 2014, the interest rate under the Construction Facility was 5.75%.
The Construction Facility contains customary representations, warranties, and affirmative and negative covenants, including a material adverse effects clause whereby a breach may disallow a future draw but not acceleration of payment and a cross default clause whose remedy, among other rights, includes the right to restrict future loans as well as the right to accelerate principal and interest payments. Covenants primarily relate to the collateral amounts and transfer of right restrictions.
At March 31, 2014, we had borrowed $90.0 million under the Construction Facility and is classified under system pre-construction, construction and term debt. In the event additional construction financing is needed, we have the ability to draw upon the available capacity of our Credit Facility (discussed above). In the event additional construction financing is needed beyond the amounts available under the Credit Facility and we are unable to obtain alternative financing or if we have inadequate net working capital, such inability to fund future projects may have an adverse impact on our business growth plans, financial position and results of operations.
System Pre-Construction, Construction and Term Debt
We typically finance our solar energy projects through project entity specific debt secured by the project entity's assets (mainly the solar energy system) with no recourse to us. Typically, these financing arrangements provide for a construction loan, which upon completion will be converted into a term loan, and generally do not restrict the future sale of the project entity to a third party buyer. On March 31, 2014, we had system construction and term debt outstanding of $1,012.5 million. Included in this amount is $212.5 million of a fixed rate non-recourse debt financing arrangement used to finance the construction of a SunEdison owned solar power plant executed in the third quarter of 2013. Additionally, a portion also relates to variable rate debt with interest rates that are tied to either the London Interbank Offered Rate, the Euro Interbank Offer Rate, the Canadian Dollar Offered Rate or the PRIME rate. The variable interest rates have primarily been hedged by our outstanding interest rate swaps as discussed in Note 6. The interest rates on the remaining construction and term debt range from 3.0% to 18.0% and have maturities that range from 2014 to 2033.
During the second quarter of 2012, we violated covenants of two non-recourse solar energy system loans as a result of the devaluation of the local currency (Indian Rupee). On September 28, 2012, we obtained a waiver from the lender for the covenant violations, which had a grace period which has now expired. As of March 31, 2014, we are in default and accordingly, the amounts outstanding of $23.1 million under these loans are classified as current. We are currently in negotiations with the counterparty to extend this waiver, but there can be no assurances that such waiver can be obtained or the covenants will be met.  The solar energy systems for these two project companies collateralize the loans and there is no recourse outside of these project companies for payment.
Capital Leaseback Obligations
We are party to master lease agreements that provide for the sale and simultaneous leaseback of certain solar energy systems constructed by us. On March 31, 2014, we had $84.7 million of capital lease obligations outstanding. Generally, this classification occurs when the term of the lease is greater than 75.0% of the estimated economic life of the solar energy system and the transaction is not subject to real estate accounting. The terms of the leases are typically 25 years with certain leases providing terms as low as 10 years and providing for early buyout options. The specified rental payments are based on projected cash flows that the solar energy system will generate. Since the SunEdison acquisition date on November 20, 2009, we have not entered into any arrangements that have resulted in accounting for the sale leaseback as a capital lease.
Financing Leaseback Obligations
For certain transactions we account for the proceeds of sale leasebacks as financings, which are typically secured by the solar energy system asset and its future cash flows from energy sales, but without recourse to us under the terms of the arrangement. The structure of the repayment terms under the lease results in negative amortization throughout the financing period, and we therefore recognize the lease payments as interest expense. The balance outstanding for sale leaseback transactions accounted for as financings as of March 31, 2014 is $1,382.1 million, which includes the below mentioned transactions. The maturities range from 2021 to 2039 and are collateralized by the related solar energy system assets with a carrying amount of $1,382.1 million.
On March 31, 2011, one of our project subsidiaries executed a master lease agreement with a U.S. financial institution which provides for the sale and simultaneous leaseback of certain solar energy systems constructed by us. The total capacity under this agreement is $124.4 million, of which $124.3 million is outstanding and $0.1 million is available as of March 31, 2014. The specified rental payments under the master lease agreement are based on projected cash flows that the solar energy systems generate.
On September 24, 2012, one of our project subsidiaries executed a master lease agreement with a U.S. financial institution which provides for the sale and simultaneous leaseback of certain solar energy systems constructed by us. The total capacity under this agreement was $101.4 million, of which $94.1 million is outstanding and $7.3 million was available as of March 31, 2014. The specified rental payments under the master lease agreement are based on projected cash flows that the solar energy systems generate.
Acquisition Facility
On March 28, 2014, a subsidiary entered into a credit and guaranty agreement with various lenders and Goldman Sachs Bank USA, as administrative agent, collateral agent, documentation agent, sole lead arranger, sole lead bookrunner, and syndication agent (the “Acquisition Facility”). The Acquisition Facility provides for a term loan credit facility in the amount of $250.0 million which will be used for the acquisition of certain renewable energy generation assets. The Acquisition Facility will mature on the earlier of August 28, 2015 and the date on which all loans under the Acquisition Facility become due and payable in full, whether by acceleration or otherwise. The principal amount of loans under the Acquisition Facility is payable in consecutive semiannual installments on August 28, 2014 and February 28, 2015, in each case, in an amount equal to 0.5% of the original principal balance of the loans funded prior to such payment, with the remaining balance payable on the maturity date.
Loans under the Acquisition Facility are non-recourse debt to entities outside of the legal entities that subscribe to the debt. Loans and each guarantee under the Acquisition Facility are secured by first priority security interests in all of the subsidiary’s assets and the assets of its domestic subsidiaries, (ii) 100% of the capital stock of each of the subsidiary’s domestic subsidiaries and 65% of the capital stock of each of the subsidiary’s foreign subsidiaries and all intercompany debt. Prior to August 15, 2014, interest on loans under the Acquisition Facility is based on our election of either a base rate plus 5.00% or a reserve adjusted eurodollar rate plus 6.00%. Thereafter, interest is based on our election of either a base rate plus the sum of 5.00% and a spread (as defined) or a reserve adjusted eurodollar rate plus the sum of 6.00% and the spread. The reserve adjusted eurodollar rate will be subject to a floor of 1.00% and the base rate will be subject to a floor of 2.00%. The spread will initially be 0.50% per annum, commencing on August 15, 2014, and will increase by an additional 0.25% per annum every ninety days thereafter. As of March 31, 2014, the interest rate under the Acquisition Facility was 7.0%.
The Acquisition Facility contains customary representations, warranties, and affirmative and negative covenants, including a minimum debt service coverage ratio applicable to the subsidiary (1.15:1.00 starting December 31, 2014) that will be tested quarterly and cross-default and cross-acceleration clauses in the event of default. The cross default clause is limited to defaults on other indebtedness of the subsidiary in excess of $75.0 million. The Acquisition Facility loans may be prepaid in whole or in part without premium or penalty, and outstanding Acquisition Facility loans must be prepaid in certain specified circumstances.
At March 31, 2014, we had borrowed $250.0 million under the Acquisition Facility. We paid fees of $9.5 million upon entry into the Acquisition Facility, which were recognized as deferred financing fees.
Other System Financing Transactions
Other system financing transactions represent the cash proceeds that we received in connection with an executed solar energy system sales contract that has not met the sales recognition requirements under real estate accounting and has been accounted for as a financing. Included in other system financing is $18.3 million of proceeds collected under three separate solar energy system sales agreements with the buyer that provides the buyer with a put option that could become an obligation in the event that we are unable to fulfill certain performance warranties set to expire during 2015. The remaining portion of other system financings of $106.5 million relates to cash proceeds received in connection with separate solar energy system sales contracts for which we have substantial continuing involvement. There are no principal or interest payments associated with these transactions. Of the $106.5 million, $41.2 million relates to two projects sold in Italy which did not meet the requirements to record revenue due to an indemnification that expires in 2016. The remaining amount relates to twelve projects sold in the U.S., Korea, and Canada.
Capitalized Interest
During the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, we capitalized $10.4 million and $3.3 million of interest to the consolidated balance sheet, respectively.
Semiconductor Materials Debt
Long-term Notes
Long-term notes at March 31, 2014 totaling $10.6 million are owed to a bank by our Japanese subsidiary, are guaranteed by us, and are secured by the property, plant and equipment of our Japanese subsidiary. These loans mature in years ranging from 2014 to 2017. The guarantees would require us to satisfy the loan obligations in the event that the Japanese subsidiary failed to pay such debt in accordance with its stated terms.

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Instru

Derivatives and Hedging Instruments	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivatives and Hedging Instruments	'
	SunEdison’s derivatives and hedging activities consist of:
			Assets (Liabilities or Equity) Fair Value
	In millions	Balance Sheet Classification	As of March 31, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
	Derivatives designated as hedging:
	Interest rate swaps	Prepaid and other current assets	$	—		$	1.6
	Interest rate swaps	Accumulated other comprehensive income	—			(1.6		)
	Interest rate swaps	Accrued liabilities	(3.1		)	(2.4		)
	Interest rate swaps	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	2.3			1.6
	Cross currency swaps	Prepaid and other current assets (accrued liabilities)	1			(2.4		)
	Cross currency swaps	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1.0		)	2.4
	Derivatives not designated as hedging:
	Note hedges (see Note 4)	Note hedge derivative asset	$	814.6		$	514.8
	Conversion options (see Note 4)	Conversion option derivative liability	(822.9		)	(506.5		)
	Warrants (see Note 4)	Warrant derivative liability	(705.7		)	(270.5		)
	Currency forward contracts	Prepaid and other current assets	0.7			0.7
	Currency forward contracts	Accrued liabilities	(3.4		)	(11.5		)
	Interest rate swaps	Prepaid and other current assets	1.8			1
	Interest rate swaps	Accrued liabilities	(0.8		)	(0.2		)
			Losses (Gains)
	In millions	Statement of Operations Classification	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014			Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	Derivatives not designated as hedging:
	Currency forward contracts	Other, net	$	7.5		$	10
	Interest rate swaps	Interest expense	8.8			8.8
	Note hedges (see Note 4)	Gain on convertible notes derivatives	(299.8		)	—
	Conversion options (see Note 4)	Loss on convertible notes derivatives	316.4			—
	Warrants (see Note 4)	Loss on convertible notes derivatives	435.2			—
	To mitigate the risks associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates, we utilize currency forward contracts. We do not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes. Gains and losses on these foreign currency exposures are generally offset by corresponding losses and gains on the related hedging instruments, reducing our net exposure. A substantial portion of our revenue and capital spending is transacted in U.S. dollars. However, we also enter into transactions in other currencies, primarily the euro, the Japanese yen, the South African rand and certain other Asian currencies. To protect against reductions in value and volatility of future cash flows caused by changes in foreign exchange rates, we have established transaction-based hedging programs. Our hedging programs reduce, but do not always eliminate, the impact of foreign currency exchange rate movements. At any point in time, we may have outstanding contracts with several major financial institutions for these hedging transactions. Our maximum credit risk loss with these institutions is limited to any gain on our outstanding contracts. As of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, these currency forward contracts had aggregate notional amounts of $452.4 million and $401.1 million, respectively, and are accounted for as economic hedges. There were no outstanding currency forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013.
	During the second quarter of 2013, we entered into a cross currency swap with a notional amount of $185.8 million accounted for as a cash flow hedge. The amounts recorded to the condensed consolidated balance sheet, as provided in the table above, represent the fair value of the net amount that would settle on the balance sheet date if the swap was transferred to other third parties or canceled by us. The effective portion of this cash flow hedging instrument during the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 was recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the condensed consolidated balance sheet. No ineffectiveness was recognized during the three month period ended March 31, 2014.
	As of March 31, 2014, we are party to five interest rate swap instruments that are accounted for using hedge accounting. These instruments are used to hedge floating rate debt and are accounted for as cash flow hedges. Under the interest rate swap agreements, we pay the fixed rate and the financial institution counterparties to the agreements pay us a floating interest rate. The amount recorded in the condensed consolidated balance sheet represents the estimated fair value of the net amount that we would settle on March 31, 2014, if the agreements were transferred to other third parties or cancelled by us. The effective portion of these cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were losses of $3.1 million and $2.4 million, respectively. These were recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). There was no material ineffectiveness recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	As of March 31, 2014, we are party to four interest rate swap instruments that are accounted for as economic hedges. These instruments are used to hedge floating rate debt and are not accounted for as cash flow hedges. Under the interest rate swap agreements, we pay the fixed rate and the financial institution counterparties to the agreements pay us a floating interest rate. The amount recorded in the condensed consolidated balance sheet represents the estimated fair value of the net amount that we would settle on March 31, 2014, if the agreements were transferred to other third parties or cancelled by us. Because these hedges are deemed economic hedges and not accounted for under hedge accounting, the changes in fair value are recorded to interest expense (income) within the condensed consolidated statement of operations.
	As of March 31, 2014, we have upward amortizing interest rate swap agreements that are used as an economic hedge related to several consolidated solar energy system projects for which we own 8.2% of the project companies. These instruments are used to hedge floating rate debt with a construction loan availability of $200.0 million and are not designated as a cash flow hedge. Under the swap agreement, we pay the fixed rate and the counterparty to the agreement pays us a floating interest rate. The amount recorded in the condensed consolidated balance sheet, as provided in the table above, represents the estimated fair value of the net amount that we would settle on March 31, 2014 if the agreements were transferred to other third parties or cancelled by us. Because these agreements are designated as an economic hedge and not accounted for under hedge accounting, the changes in fair value are recorded to interest expense (income) within the condensed consolidated statement of operations. During the three month periods ended March 31, 2014, we recorded $1.6 million to interest expense for fair value adjustments. These amounts are reduced in the condensed consolidated statement of operations by $1.5 million million attributable to a non-controlling interest representing the 91.8% of the project companies we do not own. We also have an upward amortizing interest rate swap agreement that is designated as a cash flow hedge related to a solar energy system project. This instrument is used to hedge floating rate debt with a construction loan availability of $185.8 million. The changes in fair value are recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the condensed consolidated balance sheets, as provided in the table above, with any ineffectiveness recorded in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. No such ineffectiveness was recognized during the three month period ended March 31, 2014.
	In connection with the senior convertible notes issued in December, 2013 as discussed in Note 4, we entered into privately negotiated convertible note hedge and warrant transactions. Assuming full performance by the counterparties, these instruments are designed to effectively reduce our potential payout over the principal amount on the senior convertible notes upon conversion. Refer to Note 4 for additional information.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis as classified in the fair value hierarchy (Level 1, 2 or 3) based on the inputs used for valuation in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets:
			As of March 31, 2014												As of December 31, 2013
	Assets (liabilities) in millions		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Interest rate swap assets		$	—		$	1.8		$	—		$	1.8		$	—		$	2.6		$	—		$	2.6
	Interest rate swap liabilities		—			(3.9		)	—			(3.9		)	—			(2.6		)	—			(2.6		)
	Currency forward contract assets		0.7			—			—			0.7			0.7			—			—			0.7
	Currency forward contract liabilities		(3.4		)	—			—			(3.4		)	(11.5		)	—			—			(11.5		)
	Cross currency swaps asset (liabilities)		—			1			—			1			—			(2.4		)	—			(2.4		)
	Note hedge derivative asset (see Note 4)		—			814.6			—			814.6			—			514.8			—			514.8
	Conversion option derivative liability (see Note 4)		—			(822.9		)	—			(822.9		)	—			(506.5		)	—			(506.5		)
	Warrant derivative liability (see Note 4)		—			(705.7		)	—			(705.7		)	—			(270.5		)	—			(270.5		)
	Contingent consideration liabilities		—			—			(31.6		)	(31.6		)	—			—			(35.2		)	(35.2		)
	Total		$	(2.7	)	$	(715.1	)	$	(31.6	)	$	(749.4	)	$	(10.8	)	$	(264.6	)	$	(35.2	)	$	(310.6	)
	There were no transfers into or out of Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 financial instruments during the three month periods ended March 31, 2014.
	The following table summarizes changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2014:
	In millions		Contingent
			Consideration
			Related to
			Acquisitions
	Balance, December 31, 2012		$	(24.9	)
	Total unrealized losses included in earnings (1)		0.3
	Balance, March 31, 2013		$	(24.6	)
	Balance December 31 2013		$	(35.2	)
	Total unrealized losses included in earnings (1)		(0.4		)
	Payments of contingent consideration		4
	Balance, March 31, 2014		$	(31.6	)
	The amount of total losses for the three months ended March 31, 2013 included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date		$	0.3
	The amount of total losses for the three months ended March 31, 2014 included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date		$	(0.4	)
	__________________________
	(1)	Amounts included in earnings are recorded to non-operating expense (income) in the condensed consolidated statement of operations, except for the amount included in marketing and administration for the contingent consideration related to acquisitions, for which changes to the fair value were recorded to operating income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statement of operations.
	The following table presents the carrying amount and estimated fair value of our outstanding short-term debt, long-term debt and capital lease obligations as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:
		As of March 31, 2014								As of December 31, 2013
	In millions	Carrying Amount				Estimated Fair Value (1)				Carrying Amount				Estimated Fair Value (1)
	Total debt and capital lease obligations	$	3,942.80			$	3,880.90			$	3,576.20			$	2,681.20
	__________________________
	(1)	Fair value of our debt, excluding our 2018 and 2021 Notes, is calculated using a discounted cash flow model with consideration for our non-performance risk (Level 3 assumptions). The estimated fair value of our 2018 and 2021 Notes were based on broker quotations (Level 1). The estimated fair value of our solar energy system debt related to sale-leasebacks is significantly lower than the carrying value of such debt because the fair value estimate is based on the fair value of our fixed lease payments over the term of the leases (Level 3 assumptions). Under real estate accounting, this debt is recorded as a financing obligation, and substantially all of our lease payments are recorded as interest expense with little to no reduction in our debt balance over the term of the lease. As a result, our outstanding sale-leaseback debt obligations will generally result in a one-time gain recognition at the end of the leases for the full amount of the debt. The timing difference between expense and gain recognition will result in increased expense during the term of the leases with a significant book gain at the end of the lease.

Income_loss_Per_Share

Income (loss) Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Income (loss) Per Share	'
	For the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, basic and diluted loss per share (“EPS”) were calculated as follows:
		Three Months Ended March 31, 2014						Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	In millions, except per share amounts	Basic			Diluted			Basic			Diluted
	EPS Numerator:
	Net loss attributable to SunEdison stockholders	$	(613.6	)	$	(613.6	)	$	(89.4	)	$	(89.4	)
	Adjustment for net income attributable to redeemable interest holder	(3.2		)	(3.2		)	—			—
	Adjustment of redeemable noncontrolling interest	—			—			(2.4		)	(2.4		)
	Adjusted net loss to SunEdison stockholders	$	(616.8	)	$	(616.8	)	$	(91.8	)	$	(91.8	)
	EPS Denominator:
	Weighted-average shares outstanding	267.1			267.1			231.3			231.3
	Loss per share	$	(2.31	)	$	(2.31	)	$	(0.40	)	$	(0.40	)
	For the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, the numerator of the EPS calculation included the amount recorded to adjust a redeemable noncontrolling interest balance to redemption value.  For the three months ended March 31, 2014, the numerator of the EPS calculation was reduced by the holder’s share of the net income of the subsidiaries as a result of the Share Sale Agreement entered into with the noncontrolling interest holder. Similar adjustments will be required through October 15, 2014, when we will have repurchased all of the holder’s shares.
	Weighted-average shares outstanding for the three month period ended March 31, 2014 includes the impact of the issuance of 34,500,000 shares of common stock on September 18, 2013 in a registered public offering.
	For the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, all options to purchase our stock and restricted stock units were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because the effect was antidilutive due to the net loss incurred for the respective periods. The conversion option and Warrants associated with the convertible senior notes (see Note 4) will have no impact on EPS until classified in stockholders' equity and unless the impact is dilutive.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Shareholders' Equity	'
	The following table presents the change in total stockholders' (deficit) equity for the three month period ended March 31, 2014:
	In millions	SunEdison Stockholders’					Noncontrolling				Total
		(Deficit) Equity					Interests
	Balance, January 1, 2014	$	232.2				$	109			$	341.2
	Net loss	(613.6		)			(2.4		)		(616.0		)
	Translation adjustment, net	1.3					(0.1		)		1.2
	Acquired noncontrolling interests	—					3.1				3.1
	Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	10.1					—				10.1
	Stock plans, net	13.9					—				13.9
	Net contributions from noncontrolling interests	—					10				10
	Balance, March 31, 2014	$	(356.1	)	—		$	119.6		—	$	(236.5	)
	Stock-Based Compensation
	We have equity incentive plans that provide for the award of non-qualified stock options, restricted stock, performance shares, and restricted stock units to employees, non-employee directors and consultants. During the second quarter of 2013, 16.5 million shares were registered for issuance under our equity incentive plan pursuant to a plan amendment approved by our stockholders at our annual stockholders' meeting. In September 2013, 5.6 million of these registered shares were issued in connection with a registered public offering. As of March 31, 2014, there were 5.7 million shares remaining available for future grant under these plans.
	The following table presents information regarding outstanding stock options as of March 31, 2014 and changes during the three month period then ended:
		Shares			Weighted-				Aggregate  Intrinsic			Weighted-
					Average				Value			Average
					Exercise Price				(in millions)			Remaining
												Contractual
												Life
												(in years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	23,742,764			$	6.64
	Granted	67,500			14.76
	Exercised	(590,242	)		8.91
	Forfeited	(729,680	)		7.25
	Expired	(13,939	)		8.19
	Outstanding at March 31, 2014	22,476,403			$	6.57			$	282.3		8
	Options exercisable at March 31, 2014	4,397,832			$	12.79			$	34.8		6
	The weighted-average grant-date fair value per share of options granted was $7.39 and $2.23 for the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The following table presents information regarding outstanding restricted stock units as of March 31, 2014 and changes during the three month period then ended:
		Restricted  Stock			Aggregate  Intrinsic				Weighted-
		Units			Value				Average  Remaining
					(in millions)				Contractual Life
									(in years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	4,038,782
	Granted	479,900
	Converted	(73,682	)
	Forfeited	(90,761	)
	Outstanding at March 31, 2014	4,354,239			$	79.8			1
	The weighted-average fair value of restricted stock units per share on the date of grant was $15.03 and $4.55 for the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	In connection with the formation of Yieldco, certain employees of ours who will perform services for Yieldco were granted equity incentive awards under the SunEdison Yieldco, Inc. 2014 Second Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Yieldco 2014 Incentive Plan”) in the form of restricted shares of Yieldco. These awards have a total valuation of $3.8 million, with some awards vesting ratably over three years from the grant date, while others vest on a schedule that is conditioned upon the completion of the initial public offering. An immaterial amount of expense was recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2014 related to these awards.
	Stock-based compensation expense for the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 was $8.6 million and $7.2 million, respectively.

Comprehesive_Income_Notes

Comprehesive Income (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]	'
	Comprehensive income (loss) represents a measure of all changes in equity that result from recognized transactions and other economic events other than transactions with owners in their capacity as owners. Other comprehensive loss includes foreign currency translations, gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, gains (losses) on hedging instruments and pension adjustments.
	The following tables present the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
	In millions	Foreign Currency Items (1)			Available-for-sale Securities			Hedging Activities			Pension Plans			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Balance, December 31, 2012	$	32.3		$	(7.6	)	$	(4.3	)	$	(60.2	)	$	(39.8	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)before reclassifications	(33.1		)	(0.6		)	0.6			—			(33.1		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	—			—			—			—			—
	Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(33.1		)	(0.6		)	0.6			—			(33.1		)
	Balance, March 31, 2013	$	(0.8	)	$	(8.2	)	$	(3.7	)	$	(60.2	)	$	(72.9	)
	In millions	Foreign Currency Items (1)			Hedging Activities			Pension Plans			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Balance, December 31, 2013	$	(20.0	)	$	(12.4	)	$	(27.6	)	$	(60.0	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	1.3			9.4			0.8			11.5
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	—			—			(0.1		)	(0.1		)
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	1.3			9.4			0.7			11.4
	Balance, March 31, 2014	$	(18.7	)	$	(3.0	)	$	(26.9	)	$	(48.6	)
	__________________________
	(1)	Excludes foreign currency adjustments as it relates to noncontrolling interests. Refer to the condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss related to pension plans for amortization of prior service costs and net actuarial loss are classified in marketing and administration expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	In general, we record income tax expense (benefit) each quarter based on our best estimate as to the full year's effective tax rate. This estimated tax expense (benefit) is reported based on a pro-ration of the actual income earned in the period divided by the full year forecasted income (loss). There are certain items, however, which are given discrete period treatment, and the tax effects of those items are reported in the quarter that such events arise. Items that give rise to discrete recognition include (but are not limited to) finalizing tax authority examinations, changes in statutory tax rates and expiration of a statute of limitations.
	The process for calculating income tax expense (benefit) includes estimating current taxes due and assessing temporary differences between the recognition of assets and liabilities for tax and financial statement reporting purposes. The income tax expense in the three month period ended March 31, 2014 is associated with the result of the worldwide operational earnings mix at various rates. We regularly review our deferred tax assets for realizability, taking into consideration all available evidence, both positive and negative, including cumulative losses, projected future pre-tax and taxable income (losses), the expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary differences and the expected impact of tax planning strategies. Our total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance, as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, were $68.8 million and $65.7 million, respectively. We believe that it is more likely than not, based on our projections of future taxable income in certain jurisdictions, that we will generate sufficient taxable income to realize the benefits of the net deferred tax assets which have not been offset by a valuation allowance at March 31, 2014.
	We are subject to income taxes in the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. From time to time, we are subject to income tax audits in these jurisdictions. We believe that our tax return positions are fully supported, but tax authorities may challenge certain positions, which may not be fully sustained. Our income tax expense includes amounts intended to satisfy income tax assessments that may result from these challenges. Determining the income tax expense for these potential assessments and recording the related assets and liabilities requires significant judgments and estimates. Tax benefits are recognized only for tax positions that are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. We review our liabilities quarterly, and we may adjust such liabilities due to proposed assessments by tax authorities, changes in facts and circumstances, issuance of new regulations or new case law, negotiations between tax authorities of different countries concerning our transfer prices, the resolution of entire audits or the expiration of statutes of limitations. Adjustments, if required, are most likely to occur in the year during which major audits are closed. The total accrual for uncertain tax positions as of March 31, 2014 of $17.1 million was unchanged from December 31, 2013.
	The undistributed earnings of a substantial number of our foreign subsidiaries are not expected to be remitted to the U.S. parent corporation in the foreseeable future. The impact of the undistributed earnings that are currently expected to be remitted to the U.S. parent corporate in the foreseeable future is not material to the consolidated financial statements and would be fully offset by valuation allowances. We plan foreign remittance amounts based on projected cash flow needs as well as the working capital and long-term investment requirements of our foreign subsidiaries and our domestic operations. Of our cash and cash equivalents and cash committed for construction projects as of March 31, 2014, $328.0 million was held by our foreign subsidiaries, a portion of which may be subject to repatriation tax effects.
	We are currently under examination by the IRS for the 2011 and 2012 tax years. We are also under examination by certain foreign tax jurisdictions. We believe it is reasonably possible that some portions of these examinations could be completed within the next twelve months and have currently recorded amounts in the financial statements that are reflective of the current status of these examinations.

Variable_Interest_Entities

Variable Interest Entities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract]	'
Variable Interest Entities	'
	Twelve VIEs in solar energy related entities were consolidated as of March 31, 2014. The carrying amounts and classification of our consolidated VIEs' assets and liabilities included in our condensed consolidated balance sheet are as follows:
	In millions	As of March 31, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	Current assets	$	325.5	$	274.1
	Noncurrent assets	245.9		167.2
	Total assets	$	571.4	$	441.3
	Current liabilities	$	17.2	$	22
	Noncurrent liabilities	359.9		275.4
	Total liabilities	$	377.1	$	297.4
	The amounts shown in the table above exclude intercompany balances, which are eliminated upon consolidation. All of the assets in the table above are restricted for settlement of the VIE obligations and all of the liabilities in the table above can only be settled using VIE resources. There are two material consolidated VIEs for which we determined we were not the primary beneficiary.

Deferred_Revenue_and_Profit

Deferred Revenue and Profit	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Deferred Revenue and Profit	'
	rred revenue consists of the following:
	In millions	As of March 31, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	Deferred revenue:
	Short-term profit deferrals	$	112.5	$	154.7
	Long-term profit deferrals	100.3		68.9
	Deferred subsidy revenue	21.3		21.1
	Total deferred revenue	$	234.1	$	244.7
	On March 29, 2013, we amended a long-term solar wafer supply agreement with Tainergy Tech Co., LTD ("Tainergy"). Under the terms of the supply agreement, we were to supply solar grade silicon wafers over a ten-year period at pre-determined pricing for certain volumes on a take-or-pay basis. Tainergy had advanced funds to us in the form of both refundable and non-refundable deposits pursuant to the agreement. Tainergy did not meet its purchase obligations pursuant to the supply agreement and agreed to settle the purchase shortfalls for the first four contract years. As part of the settlement, Tainergy agreed that we would deduct and retain $25.0 million of the refundable capacity reservation deposit without recourse and as a result, we recognized $25.0 million as revenue in the first quarter of 2013. In addition to the settlement of purchase shortfalls for the first four contract years, we agreed to significantly reduce required minimum purchase volumes in the remaining six contract years, as well as to modify the pricing terms to be based on market rates similar to other SunEdison long-term solar wafer supply agreements. The remaining deposit will be refunded ratably as purchases are made over the remaining six contract years. The forfeiture of the deposit of $25.0 million, which was previously reflected as a liability, has been reflected as cash provided by operating activities and cash used in financing activities in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Samsung Fine Chemicals Joint Venture
	In February 2011, we entered into an equity method joint venture with Samsung Fine Chemicals Co. Ltd. (the "SMP JV") for the construction and operation of a new facility to produce high purity polysilicon in Ulsan, South Korea. The SMP JV will manufacture and supply polysilicon to us and to international markets. Our current ownership interest in the joint venture is 50% and Samsung Fine Chemicals Co. Ltd. currently owns the other 50%. Further developments regarding the SMP JV are discussed in Note 16.
	In September 2011, we executed a Supply and License Agreement with the SMP JV under which we will license and sell to the joint venture certain technology and related equipment used for producing polysilicon. Throughout 2013, we received proceeds under the Supply and License Agreement based on certain milestones we achieved throughout the construction, installation and testing of the equipment, which we expect to continue through the second half of 2014. Proceeds received from the SMP JV under the Supply and License Agreement will be recorded as a reduction in our basis in the SMP JV investment and to the extent that our basis in the investment is zero, the remaining proceeds received will be recorded as a long-term liability.
	During the quarter ended March 31, 2014, under the Supply and License Agreement we made total equity contributions of $17.0 million. Since inception of the SMP JV, the proceeds received have exceeded our investment, and we recorded this as a reduction in our equity investment balance with the excess of $18.8 million recorded in long-term customer and other deposits. The cash received is recorded as an investing inflow within the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows. Our total cash commitments, inclusive of the $133.2 million invested thus far, are expected to be $183.8 million through 2014. We expect our remaining cash commitments to be substantially offset by proceeds received under the Supply and License Agreement.
	Purchase Obligations
	We maintain long-term agreements with multiple suppliers in connection with the purchase of certain raw materials and long-term agreements with multiple subcontractors to manufacture solar wafers for us.
	As part of our 2011 Global Plan, we provided notice to several of our vendors with whom we had long-term supply contracts that we would no longer be fulfilling our purchase obligations. In connection with the restructuring, we recorded significant restructuring liabilities associated with the estimated settlements arising from these actions based on management's best estimates of the ultimate outcome of these contract resolutions at that time. As of March 31, 2014, we have recorded total liabilities of $34.9 million associated with the estimated settlements arising from these purchase obligations with multiple vendors, $3.6 million of which is recorded to short-term accrued liabilities and $31.3 million is recorded as long-term other liabilities in our condensed consolidated balance sheet. The amount accrued as of March 31, 2014 represents our best estimate of the probable amounts to settle all of our purchase obligations based on presently known information, which involve the use of assumptions requiring significant judgment. We estimate the range of reasonably possible losses to be up to $163.4 million, inclusive of the Wacker claims as discussed below in the legal proceedings section. These estimates include the contractual terms of the agreements, including whether or not there are fixed volumes and/or fixed prices. In addition, under certain contracts, the counterparty may have a contractual obligation to sell the materials to mitigate their losses. We also included in our estimate of losses consideration around whether we believe the obligation will be settled through arbitration, litigation or commercially viable alternative resolutions or settlements. We intend to vigorously defend ourselves against any arbitration or litigation. Due to the inherent uncertainties of arbitration and litigation, we cannot predict the ultimate outcome or resolution of such actions. The actual amounts ultimately settled with these vendors could vary significantly, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
	Contingent Consideration
	As of March 31, 2014, liabilities for contingent consideration were recorded and are outstanding in connection with acquisitions. The liability recognized under these arrangements was $31.6 million as of March 31, 2014, representing the estimated fair value of these obligations. Of the $31.6 million liability, $11.3 million is recorded in accrued liabilities and $20.3 million is recorded as a long-term liability in other liabilities. The aggregate maximum payouts which could occur under these arrangements is $59.7 million in the form of cash and equity. Any future revisions to the fair value of the contingent consideration associated with business combinations outside of the measurement period, which could be material, will be recorded to the condensed consolidated statement of operations.
	Indemnifications
	We have agreed to indemnify certain customers against claims of infringement of the intellectual property rights of others in our sales contracts with these customers. Historically, we have not paid any claims under these indemnification obligations, and we do not have any pending indemnification claims as of March 31, 2014.
	We generally warrant the operation of our solar energy systems for a period of time. Certain parts and labor warranties from our vendors can be assigned to our customers. Due to the absence of historical material warranty claims and expected future claims, we have recorded an immaterial warranty accrual related to solar energy systems as of March 31, 2014. We may also indemnify our customers for tax credits and feed in tariffs associated with the systems we construct and then sell, including sale leasebacks. During the three month period ended March 31, 2014, the additional payments, net of recoveries, under the terms of the lease agreements to indemnify our sale leaseback customers for shortfalls in amounts approved by the U.S. Treasury Department related to Grant in Lieu program tax credits were not material. We are working with our sale leaseback customers and the U.S. Treasury Department to recover these shortfalls. Based on current information, we are unable to estimate additional exposures to the indemnification of tax credits and feed in tariffs.
	In connection with certain contracts to sell solar energy systems directly or as sale-leasebacks, our SunEdison LLC subsidiary has guaranteed the systems' performance for various time periods following the date of interconnection. Also, under separate operations and maintenance services agreements, SunEdison LLC has guaranteed the uptime availability of the systems over the term of the arrangements, which may last up to 20 years. To the extent there are shortfalls in either of the guarantees, SunEdison LLC is required to indemnify the purchaser up to the guaranteed amount through a cash payment. The maximum losses that SunEdison LLC may be subject to for non-performance are contractually limited by the terms of each executed agreement.
	Legal Proceedings
	We are involved in various legal proceedings, claims, investigations and other legal matters which arise in the ordinary course of business. Although it is not possible to predict the outcome of these matters, we believe that the ultimate outcome of these proceedings, individually and in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
	Jerry Jones v. SunEdison, Inc., et al.
	On December 26, 2008, a putative class action lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri by plaintiff, Jerry Jones, purportedly on behalf of all participants in and beneficiaries of SunEdison's 401(k) Savings Plan (the "Plan") between September 4, 2007 and December 26, 2008, inclusive. The complaint asserted claims against SunEdison and certain of its directors, employees and/or other unnamed fiduciaries of the Plan. The complaint alleged that the defendants breached certain fiduciary duties owed under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, generally asserting that the defendants failed to make full disclosure to the Plan's participants of the risks of investing in SunEdison's stock and that the company's stock should not have been made available as an investment alternative in the Plan. The complaint also alleged that SunEdison failed to disclose certain material facts regarding SunEdison's operations and performance, which had the effect of artificially inflating SunEdison's stock price.
	On June 1, 2009, an amended class action complaint was filed by Mr. Jones and another purported participant of the Plan, Manuel Acosta, which raised substantially the same claims and was based on substantially the same allegations as the original complaint. However, the amended complaint changed the period of time covered by the action, purporting to be brought on behalf of beneficiaries of and/or participants in the Plan from June 13, 2008 through the present, inclusive. The amended complaint seeks unspecified monetary damages, including losses the participants and beneficiaries of the Plan allegedly experienced due to their investment through the Plan in SunEdison's stock, equitable relief and an award of attorney's fees. No class has been certified and discovery has not begun. The company and the named directors and employees filed a motion to dismiss the complaint, which was fully briefed by the parties as of October 9, 2009. The parties each subsequently filed notices of supplemental authority and corresponding responses. On March 17, 2010, the court denied the motion to dismiss. The SunEdison defendants filed a motion for reconsideration or, in the alternative, certification for interlocutory appeal, which was fully briefed by the parties as of June 16, 2010. The parties each subsequently filed notices of supplemental authority and corresponding responses. On October 18, 2010, the court granted the SunEdison defendants' motion for reconsideration, vacated its order denying the SunEdison defendants' motion to dismiss, and stated that it would revisit the issues raised in the motion to dismiss after the parties supplement their arguments. Both parties filed briefs supplementing their arguments on November 1, 2010. On June 28, 2011, Mr. Jones filed a notice of voluntary withdrawal from the action. On June 29, 2011, the court entered an order withdrawing Mr. Jones as one of the plaintiffs in this action. The parties each have continued to file additional notices of supplemental authority and responses thereto. On September 27, 2012, the SunEdison defendants moved for oral argument on their pending motion to dismiss, and Mr. Acosta joined in the SunEdison defendants' motion for oral argument on October 9, 2012.  On March 24, 2014, the court granted our motion to dismiss. but the plaintiffs filed, and the court in April 2014 granted, a motion to stay entry of final judgment pending a Supreme Court decision in a case that could have implications in this matter.
	Wacker Chemie AG v. SunEdison, Inc.
	On December 20, 2012, Wacker Chemie AG (“Wacker”) filed a notice of arbitration with the Swiss Chambers’ Arbitration Institution (the “SCAI”) against the company, requesting the resolution of a dispute arising from two agreements and a subsequent settlement agreement entered into between Wacker and the company. Following a hearing before the Arbitral Tribunal where procedural matters were established by the SCAI pursuant to the parties’ agreement, on September 27, 2013, Wacker filed a complete statement of claim. In the statement of claim, Wacker alleges that we failed to comply with its contractual obligations, in particular that we failed to take or pay for certain quantities of polycrystalline silicon as required under the settlement agreement. Wacker claims a payment of 22.8 million euro plus interest for the payment of outstanding invoices and an amount of 68.6 million euro for damages it claims as a result of the alleged breach by the company through August 2013, and an amount of approximately 23.6 million euro (yet to be determined) for damages it claims as a result of the alleged breach by the company for the months of September, October, November and December 2013, plus interest thereon. These amounts are included in the estimated range of reasonably possible losses as discussed above in the purchase obligations section. We filed our statement of defense on January 10, 2014. Wacker filed its Statement of Reply and Answer to Counterclaim on April 11, 2014.  We will file our Rejoinder and Reply on Counterclaim on June 27, 2014.  The hearing is scheduled for October 2014 with a simultaneous post-hearing briefing to follow. We intend to vigorously defend this action.
	From time to time, we may conclude it is in the best interests of our stockholders, employees, vendors and customers to settle one or more litigation matters, and any such settlement could include substantial payments; however, other than as may be noted above, we have not reached this conclusion with respect to any particular matter at this time. There are a variety of factors that influence our decision to settle any particular individual matter, and the amount we may choose to pay or accept as payment to settle such matters, including the strength of our case, developments in the litigation (both expected and unexpected), the behavior of other interested parties, including non-parties to the matter, the demand on management time and the possible distraction of our employees associated with the case and/or the possibility that we may be subject to an injunction or other equitable remedy. It is difficult to predict whether a settlement is possible, the amount of an appropriate settlement or when is the opportune time to settle a matter in light of the numerous factors that go into the settlement decision.

Reportable_Segments

Reportable Segments	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Reportable Segments	'
	We are organized by end market, with two business segments: Semiconductor Materials and Solar Energy. Our Solar Energy segment provides solar energy services that integrate the design, installation, financing, monitoring, operations and maintenance portions of the downstream solar market for our customers. Our Solar Energy segment also manufactures polysilicon, silicon wafers and solar modules to support our downstream solar business, as well as for sale to external customers as market conditions dictate. Our Semiconductor Materials segment includes the development, production and marketing of semiconductor silicon wafers as the base material for the production of semiconductor devices.
	Effective January 1, 2014, in connection with the previously announced plan to divest a minority ownership of a newly formed company to be known as SunEdison Semiconductor, Ltd. ("SSL"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SunEdison, Inc. created to own our Semiconductor Materials business, through an initial public offering (the "Semiconductor Offering"), we made the following changes in our internal financial reporting in order to align our reporting with the organizational and management structure established to manage the Semiconductor Materials segment as a standalone SEC registrant:
	•	Reclassification of certain corporate costs and expenses. Prior to January 1, 2014, costs and expenses related to certain research and development and marketing activities were not allocated to the Solar Energy or Semiconductor Materials segments. These costs, as well as general corporate marketing and administrative costs, substantially all of our stock compensation expense, research and development administration costs, legal professional services and related costs, and other items were not directly attributable nor evaluated by segment and thus were included in a "Corporate and other" caption in our disclosures of financial information by reportable segment. Effective January 1, 2014, these costs and expenses have been specifically identified with the Solar Energy or Semiconductor Materials segments, and our internal financial reporting structure has been revised to reflect the results of the Solar Energy and Semiconductor Materials on this basis.
	•	Reclassification of the results for the company's polysilicon operations in Merano, Italy from the Solar Energy segment to the Semiconductor Materials segment. Prior to January 1, 2014, the Merano polysilicon operations were included in the results of the Solar Energy segment. Upon the effective date of the Semiconductor Offering, the Merano polysilicon operations will be transferred to the Semiconductor Materials segment. Thus, effective January 1, 2014, the Merano polysilicon operations have been managed by the management of the Semiconductor Materials segment, and the results of the Merano polysilicon operations have been reported on this basis in our internal financial reporting.
	As a result of these changes to our internal financial reporting structure, we determined that such changes should also be
	reflected in the reportable segments data disclosed in our consolidated financial statements, in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 280, Segment Reporting. The following information has been presented on this basis for all periods presented.
		Three Months Ended
		March 31,
	In millions	2014			2013
	Net sales:
	Solar Energy	$	340.4		$	211.2
	Semiconductor Materials	206.1			232.4
	Consolidated net sales	$	546.5		$	443.6
	Operating income (loss):
	Solar Energy	$	(61.2	)	$	(28.7	)
	Semiconductor Materials	(16.9		)	(4.8		)
	Consolidated operating loss	$	(78.1	)	$	(33.5	)
	Interest expense:
	Solar Energy	$	67.4		$	47.3
	Semiconductor Materials	0.2			0.2
	Consolidated interest expense	$	67.6		$	47.5
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Solar Energy	$	33.7		$	31.5
	Semiconductor Materials	28.3			29.3
	Consolidated depreciation and amortization	$	62		$	60.8
	Capital expenditures:
	Solar Energy (1)	$	326.9		$	47.6
	Semiconductor Materials	19.6			30.6
	Consolidated capital expenditures	$	346.5		$	78.2
	__________________________
	-1	Includes construction of solar energy systems of $326.4 million and $47.4 million in the three month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	All Segments
	Segment operating loss for the three month period ended March 31, 2013 reflects a change in the average effective intercompany selling price for polysilicon supplied by the Solar Energy segment to the Semiconductor Materials segment from $55 per kilogram to $30 per kilogram which was effective January 1, 2014.
	Solar Energy
	During the three month period ended March 31, 2013, we recognized revenue of $25.0 million as a result of the amendment of the Tainergy long-term solar wafer supply agreement. There was no such revenue in the three month period ended March 31, 2014. See Note 13.

IPO_of_SSL_Notes

IPO of SSL (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Proposed IPO SSL [Abstract]	'
Proposed IPO SSL [Text Block]	'
	On August 22, 2013, we announced our plan to pursue an initial public offering of our semiconductor business through a newly formed company to be known as SunEdison Semiconductor, Ltd. ("SSL"), and in connection therewith, filed a registration statement with respect to such proposed Semiconductor Offering with the SEC on September 9, 2013, with subsequent amendments filed on November 1, 2013, December 17, 2013, March 4, 2014, March 21, 2014, April 15, 2014, and April 22, 2014. We plan to sell a minority ownership interest in the semiconductor business to the public. We have deferred all incremental costs directly attributable to the Semiconductor Offering and will charge those costs against the gross proceeds of the offering as a reduction of SSL's additional paid-in capital. Any incremental costs not directly attributable to the Semiconductor Offering will be expensed as incurred. The incremental costs are not material to our financial statements.
	The completion of the proposed Semiconductor Offering is subject to market conditions, certain customary conditions, including approval by our Board of Directors of the final terms of the offering, receipt of all regulatory approvals, including the effectiveness of the registration statement originally filed with the SEC on September 9, 2013, including any subsequent amendments.
	In conjunction with the Semiconductor Offering, Samsung Fine Chemicals Co., Ltd. ("SFCC") and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. ("SECL") have agreed to purchase a certain amount of SSL's ordinary shares in the Semiconductor Offering at a price per share equal to the public offering price. SECL is one of SSL's customers and the owner of a noncontrolling interest in MEMC Korea Company (“MKC”). As consideration for the issuance of these ordinary shares, (i) SFCC will make an aggregate cash investment in SSL of $100.0 million and (ii) SECL will transfer to SSL its 20% interest in MKC, at which time SSL will obtain a 100% interest in MKC. These transactions will close concurrently with, and are conditional upon, the completion of the Semiconductor Offering.
	Additionally, SunEdison agreed to acquire an additional 35% interest in SMP JV (of the previous 50% interest held by SFCC) for a cash purchase price of 140 billion South Korean won (approximately $130.0 million based on exchange rates as of March 31, 2014), subject to increase based on construction costs to complete the SMP JV's polysilicon manufacturing facility, as calculated prior to the closing of the Semiconductor Offering. Prior to the completion of the Semiconductor Offering, SunEdison will contribute this 35% interest in SMP JV to SSL. As a result, on a consolidated basis, SunEdison will own a 85% interest in the SMP JV, and thus will consolidate its results.

IPO_of_YieldCo_Notes

IPO of YieldCo (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Proposed Initial Public Offering SunEdison YieldCo Inc. [Text Block]	'
	On December 12, 2013, we announced our plan to monetize certain of our solar generation assets by aggregating them under a dividend growth-oriented subsidiary ("SunEdison Yieldco") and divesting an interest in SunEdison Yieldco through an initial public offering (the "proposed SunEdison Yieldco IPO"). SunEdison Yieldco would primarily own assets located in North America, as well as projects in the United Kingdom and Chile. We expect that we would retain majority ownership of SunEdison Yieldco, and would provide specified support services to SunEdison Yieldco, for a fee. We submitted on a confidential basis a registration statement on February 14, 2014 with the SEC with respect to the proposed SunEdison Yieldco IPO.
	The completion of the proposed SunEdison Yieldco IPO and related transactions are subject to numerous conditions, including market conditions, approval by our Board of Directors of the terms of the proposed SunEdison Yieldco IPO and receipt of all regulatory approvals, including the effectiveness of the registration statement that has been submitted to the SEC.

Restructuring_and_Impairment_C1

Restructuring and Impairment Charges (Tables) (2011 Global Plan [Member])	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
2011 Global Plan [Member]	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Details of Restructuring Expenses	'
																		As of March 31, 2014
	In millions	Accrued,		Year-to-Date			Cash			Non-Cash Settlements			Currency			Accrued March 31, 2014		Cumulative		Total Costs
		December  31, 2013		Restructuring			Payments											Costs		Expected to be Incurred
				(Reversals)Charges														Incurred
	Severance and other employee benefits	$	21.3	$	(0.4	)	$	(0.7	)	$	(0.9	)	$	—		$	19.3	$	51.9	$	51.9
	Contract termination	40.2		—			(5.3		)	—			—			34.9		165.1		165.1
	Other	24.3		(1.0		)	(3.0		)	1.5			(0.1		)	21.7		47.6		47.6
	Total	$	85.8	$	(1.4	)	$	(9.0	)	$	0.6		$	(0.1	)	$	75.9	$	264.6	$	264.6

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
		As of		As of
	In millions	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Raw materials and supplies	$	75.8	$	114.7
	Goods and work in process	105		98.8
	Finished goods	34.6		34.9
	Total inventories	$	215.4	$	248.4

Solar_Energy_Systems_Held_for_1

Solar Energy Systems Held for Development and Sale (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
SES-HFD [Abstract]	'
Solar Energy Systems Held for Development and Sale [Table Text Block]	'
	Solar energy systems held for development and sale consist of the following:
		As of		As of
	In millions	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Under development	$	448	$	419.7
	Systems held for sale	—		40.4
	Total solar energy systems held for development and sale	$	448	$	460.1

Debt_and_Capital_Lease_Obligat1

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]	'
	For the three months ended March 31, 2014, we recognized a net loss of $451.8 million related to the change in the fair value of the Conversion Options, the Note Hedges and Warrants (the "Convertible Notes Derivatives"), which is reported in loss on derivatives, net in the condensed consolidated statement of operations, as follows:
	In millions	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Conversion Options	$	(316.4	)
	Note Hedges	299.8
	Warrants	(435.2		)
	Total loss on convertible note derivatives, net	$	(451.8	)
Debt	'
			As of March 31, 2014								As of December 31, 2013
	In millions		Total			Current and Short-Term			Long-Term		Total		Current and Short-Term		Long-Term
	Solar Energy non-systems debt:
	Convertible senior notes due 2018, net of discount		$	466.4		$	—		$	466.4	$	460	$	—	$	460
	Convertible senior notes due 2021, net of discount		413.3			—			413.3		408.2		—		408.2
	Total Solar Energy non-solar energy system debt		$	879.7		$	—		$	879.7	$	868.2	$	—	$	868.2
	Solar Energy systems debt, including financing and capital leaseback obligations:
	Short-term debt, weighted average interest rate of 6.51% and 6.55%, respectively		$	99.3		$	99.3		$	—	$	68.9	$	68.9	$	—
	System pre-construction, construction and term debt		1,012.50			322.7			689.8		1,028.00		305		723
	Capital leaseback obligations		84.7			3.9			80.8		94		4.5		89.5
	Financing leaseback obligations		1,382.10			13.1			1,369.00		1,384.80		16.2		1,368.60
	Acquisition facility		250			2.5			247.5		—		—		—
	Other system financing transactions		223.9			7.5			216.4		121.9		0.1		121.8
	Total Solar Energy systems debt, financing and capital leaseback obligations		$	3,052.50		$	449		$	2,603.50	$	2,697.60	$	394.7	$	2,302.90
	Semiconductor Materials debt:
	Long-term notes		$	10.6		$	2.8		$	7.8	$	10.4	$	2.8	$	7.6
	Total Semiconductor Materials debt		$	10.6		$	2.8		$	7.8	$	10.4	$	2.8	$	7.6
	Total debt outstanding		$	3,942.80		$	451.8		$	3,491.00	$	3,576.20	$	397.5	$	3,178.70
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]	'
	The Conversion Options, Note Hedges and Warrants derivative instruments are measured at fair value using a Black-Scholes valuation model as these instruments are not traded on an open market.  Significant inputs to the valuation model, which have been identified as Level 2 inputs, as of March 31, 2014, were as follows:
		Conversion Option			Note Hedges			Warrants
		Due 2018	Due 2021		Due 2018	Due 2021		Due 2018	Due 2021
	Stock price	$18.84	$18.84		$18.84	$18.84		$18.84	$18.84
	Exercise price	$14.62	$14.62		$14.62	$14.62		$18.35	$18.35
	Risk-free rate	1.62%	2.30%		1.60%	2.28%		1.76%	2.38%
	Volatility	48.00%	48.00%		48.00%	48.00%		45.00%	45.00%
	Dividend yield	—%	—%		—%	—%		—%	—%
	Maturity	2018	2021		2018	2021		2018	2021

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Instru1

Derivatives and Hedging Instruments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location	'
			Assets (Liabilities or Equity) Fair Value
	In millions	Balance Sheet Classification	As of March 31, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
	Derivatives designated as hedging:
	Interest rate swaps	Prepaid and other current assets	$	—		$	1.6
	Interest rate swaps	Accumulated other comprehensive income	—			(1.6		)
	Interest rate swaps	Accrued liabilities	(3.1		)	(2.4		)
	Interest rate swaps	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	2.3			1.6
	Cross currency swaps	Prepaid and other current assets (accrued liabilities)	1			(2.4		)
	Cross currency swaps	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1.0		)	2.4
	Derivatives not designated as hedging:
	Note hedges (see Note 4)	Note hedge derivative asset	$	814.6		$	514.8
	Conversion options (see Note 4)	Conversion option derivative liability	(822.9		)	(506.5		)
	Warrants (see Note 4)	Warrant derivative liability	(705.7		)	(270.5		)
	Currency forward contracts	Prepaid and other current assets	0.7			0.7
	Currency forward contracts	Accrued liabilities	(3.4		)	(11.5		)
	Interest rate swaps	Prepaid and other current assets	1.8			1
	Interest rate swaps	Accrued liabilities	(0.8		)	(0.2		)
			Losses (Gains)
	In millions	Statement of Operations Classification	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014			Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	Derivatives not designated as hedging:
	Currency forward contracts	Other, net	$	7.5		$	10
	Interest rate swaps	Interest expense	8.8			8.8
	Note hedges (see Note 4)	Gain on convertible notes derivatives	(299.8		)	—
	Conversion options (see Note 4)	Loss on convertible notes derivatives	316.4			—
	Warrants (see Note 4)	Loss on convertible notes derivatives	435.2			—

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	'
			As of March 31, 2014												As of December 31, 2013
	Assets (liabilities) in millions		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Interest rate swap assets		$	—		$	1.8		$	—		$	1.8		$	—		$	2.6		$	—		$	2.6
	Interest rate swap liabilities		—			(3.9		)	—			(3.9		)	—			(2.6		)	—			(2.6		)
	Currency forward contract assets		0.7			—			—			0.7			0.7			—			—			0.7
	Currency forward contract liabilities		(3.4		)	—			—			(3.4		)	(11.5		)	—			—			(11.5		)
	Cross currency swaps asset (liabilities)		—			1			—			1			—			(2.4		)	—			(2.4		)
	Note hedge derivative asset (see Note 4)		—			814.6			—			814.6			—			514.8			—			514.8
	Conversion option derivative liability (see Note 4)		—			(822.9		)	—			(822.9		)	—			(506.5		)	—			(506.5		)
	Warrant derivative liability (see Note 4)		—			(705.7		)	—			(705.7		)	—			(270.5		)	—			(270.5		)
	Contingent consideration liabilities		—			—			(31.6		)	(31.6		)	—			—			(35.2		)	(35.2		)
	Total		$	(2.7	)	$	(715.1	)	$	(31.6	)	$	(749.4	)	$	(10.8	)	$	(264.6	)	$	(35.2	)	$	(310.6	)
Changes in Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	'
	In millions		Contingent
			Consideration
			Related to
			Acquisitions
	Balance, December 31, 2012		$	(24.9	)
	Total unrealized losses included in earnings (1)		0.3
	Balance, March 31, 2013		$	(24.6	)
	Balance December 31 2013		$	(35.2	)
	Total unrealized losses included in earnings (1)		(0.4		)
	Payments of contingent consideration		4
	Balance, March 31, 2014		$	(31.6	)
	The amount of total losses for the three months ended March 31, 2013 included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date		$	0.3
	The amount of total losses for the three months ended March 31, 2014 included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized losses relating to assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date		$	(0.4	)
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]	'
		As of March 31, 2014								As of December 31, 2013
	In millions	Carrying Amount				Estimated Fair Value (1)				Carrying Amount				Estimated Fair Value (1)
	Total debt and capital lease obligations	$	3,942.80			$	3,880.90			$	3,576.20			$	2,681.20

Income_loss_Per_Share_Tables

Income (loss) Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Calculation of Basic and Diluted (loss) Earnings Per Share	'
		Three Months Ended March 31, 2014						Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	In millions, except per share amounts	Basic			Diluted			Basic			Diluted
	EPS Numerator:
	Net loss attributable to SunEdison stockholders	$	(613.6	)	$	(613.6	)	$	(89.4	)	$	(89.4	)
	Adjustment for net income attributable to redeemable interest holder	(3.2		)	(3.2		)	—			—
	Adjustment of redeemable noncontrolling interest	—			—			(2.4		)	(2.4		)
	Adjusted net loss to SunEdison stockholders	$	(616.8	)	$	(616.8	)	$	(91.8	)	$	(91.8	)
	EPS Denominator:
	Weighted-average shares outstanding	267.1			267.1			231.3			231.3
	Loss per share	$	(2.31	)	$	(2.31	)	$	(0.40	)	$	(0.40	)

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Changes in Stockholders Equity	'
	In millions	SunEdison Stockholders’					Noncontrolling				Total
		(Deficit) Equity					Interests
	Balance, January 1, 2014	$	232.2				$	109			$	341.2
	Net loss	(613.6		)			(2.4		)		(616.0		)
	Translation adjustment, net	1.3					(0.1		)		1.2
	Acquired noncontrolling interests	—					3.1				3.1
	Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	10.1					—				10.1
	Stock plans, net	13.9					—				13.9
	Net contributions from noncontrolling interests	—					10				10
	Balance, March 31, 2014	$	(356.1	)	—		$	119.6		—	$	(236.5	)
Outstanding Stock Options	'
		Shares			Weighted-				Aggregate  Intrinsic			Weighted-
					Average				Value			Average
					Exercise Price				(in millions)			Remaining
												Contractual
												Life
												(in years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	23,742,764			$	6.64
	Granted	67,500			14.76
	Exercised	(590,242	)		8.91
	Forfeited	(729,680	)		7.25
	Expired	(13,939	)		8.19
	Outstanding at March 31, 2014	22,476,403			$	6.57			$	282.3		8
	Options exercisable at March 31, 2014	4,397,832			$	12.79			$	34.8		6
Outstanding Restricted Stock Units	'
		Restricted  Stock			Aggregate  Intrinsic				Weighted-
		Units			Value				Average  Remaining
					(in millions)				Contractual Life
									(in years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	4,038,782
	Granted	479,900
	Converted	(73,682	)
	Forfeited	(90,761	)
	Outstanding at March 31, 2014	4,354,239			$	79.8			1

Comprehensive_Loss_Tables

Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014													Mar. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'													'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	'													'
														The following tables present the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
	In millions	Foreign Currency Items (1)			Hedging Activities			Pension Plans			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Balance, December 31, 2013	$	(20.0	)	$	(12.4	)	$	(27.6	)	$	(60.0	)	In millions	Foreign Currency Items (1)			Available-for-sale Securities			Hedging Activities			Pension Plans			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	1.3			9.4			0.8			11.5			Balance, December 31, 2012	$	32.3		$	(7.6	)	$	(4.3	)	$	(60.2	)	$	(39.8	)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	—			—			(0.1		)	(0.1		)	Other comprehensive income (loss)before reclassifications	(33.1		)	(0.6		)	0.6			—			(33.1		)
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	1.3			9.4			0.7			11.4			Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	—			—			—			—			—
	Balance, March 31, 2014	$	(18.7	)	$	(3.0	)	$	(26.9	)	$	(48.6	)	Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(33.1		)	(0.6		)	0.6			—			(33.1		)
														Balance, March 31, 2013	$	(0.8	)	$	(8.2	)	$	(3.7	)	$	(60.2	)	$	(72.9	)

Variable_Interest_Entities_Tab

Variable Interest Entities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities	'
	In millions	As of March 31, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	Current assets	$	325.5	$	274.1
	Noncurrent assets	245.9		167.2
	Total assets	$	571.4	$	441.3
	Current liabilities	$	17.2	$	22
	Noncurrent liabilities	359.9		275.4
	Total liabilities	$	377.1	$	297.4

Deferred_Revenue_and_Profit_Ta

Deferred Revenue and Profit (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Deferred Revenue and Profit	'
	Deferred revenue consists of the following:
	In millions	As of March 31, 2014		As of December 31, 2013
	Deferred revenue:
	Short-term profit deferrals	$	112.5	$	154.7
	Long-term profit deferrals	100.3		68.9
	Deferred subsidy revenue	21.3		21.1
	Total deferred revenue	$	234.1	$	244.7

Reportable_Segments_Tables

Reportable Segments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Reportable Segments	'
	_

Basis_of_Presentation_Details

Basis of Presentation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$3	$7.50	'
Net loss attributable to SunEdison stockholders	613.6	89.4	'
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current	453	'	423.4
Other Assets, Noncurrent	595.4	'	542.9
Accrued Liabilities, Current	462.8	'	432.7
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent	$298.30	'	$301

Restructuring_and_Impairment_C2

Restructuring and Impairment Charges (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'
MEMC Global Reduction in Force	'	'	20.00%
Restructuring charges (reversals)	$2.60	($4.50)	'
Restructuring Reversals - 2011 Global Plan	($1.40)	'	'

Restructuring_and_Impairment_C3

Restructuring and Impairment Charges (Details of Restructuring Expenses) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Contract Termination [Member]	2011 Global Plan [Member]	2011 Global Plan [Member]	2011 Global Plan [Member]	2011 Global Plan [Member]	2011 Global Plan [Member]	Semiconductor Material Consolidation [Domain]
				Severance and Other Employee Benefits [Member]	Contract Termination [Member]	Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Charges	'	'	($1.40)	($0.40)	$0	($1)	$4
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Accrued, December 31, 2011	34.9	85.8	'	21.3	40.2	24.3	'
Restructuring Charges	'	'	-1.4	-0.4	0	-1	4
Cash Payments	'	'	-9	-0.7	-5.3	-3	'
Restructuring Reserve - non cash settlement	'	'	0.6	-0.9	0	1.5	'
Currency	'	'	-0.1	0	0	-0.1	'
Accrued, September 30, 2012	34.9	75.9	'	19.3	34.9	21.7	'
Cumulative Costs Incurred	'	264.6	'	51.9	165.1	47.6	'
Total Costs Expected to be Incurred	'	$264.60	'	$51.90	$165.10	$47.60	'

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Raw materials and supplies	$75.80	$114.70
Goods and work in process	105	98.8
Finished goods	34.6	34.9
Inventories,Total	$215.40	$248.40

Inventories_Narrative_Details

Inventories (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Finished goods	$34.60	$34.90

Solar_Energy_Systems_Held_for_2

Solar Energy Systems Held for Development and Sale Solar Energy System Held for Development (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Solar Energy System Held for Development [Abstract]	'	'
solar energy systems held for development and sale variable interest entities	$0	'
Systems Held Under Development	448	419.7
Systems Held For Sale	'	40.4
Solar energy systems held for development and sale	$448	$460.10

Debt_and_Capital_Lease_Obligat2

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Debt) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 20, 2013

Sep. 28, 2012

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

Second Lien Credit Agreement [Member]

Yieldco Bridge Facility [Member]

Yieldco Bridge Facility [Member]

Yieldco Bridge Facility [Member]

Yieldco Bridge Facility [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Credit facility [Member]

Line of Credit [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net

($451.80)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

'

3,576.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

600

200

'

'

'

'

Senior Notes

413.3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

466.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior Notes, Current

0

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior Notes, Noncurrent

'

408.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

460

'

'

'

'

'

'

Loans Payable

879.7

868.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Loans Payable, Current

0

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Loans Payable, Noncurrent

879.7

868.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notes Payable

413.3

10.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

466.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notes Payable, Noncurrent

'

408.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

460

'

'

'

'

'

'

Current portion of Semiconductor Materials debt

2.8

2.8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, less current portion

879.7

868.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term Debt

'

'

0

68.9

'

'

'

99.3

68.9

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate

'

'

'

6.50%

8.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,012.50

'

'

'

1,028

10.6

10.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt, Current Maturities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

322.7

305

2.8

2.8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

689.8

723

7.8

7.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capital Lease Obligations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

84.7

94

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capital Lease Obligations, Current

'

'

3.9

4.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent

'

'

80.8

89.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sale Leaseback Transaction, Amount Due under Financing Arrangement

'

'

1,382.10

1,384.80

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Financing Obligations, Current

'

'

13.1

16.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Finance Obligations

'

'

1,369

1,368.60

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

250

0

247.5

2.5

Other System Financing transactions

'

'

223.9

121.9

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other system financing transactions, current

'

'

7.5

0.1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other system financing transactions, noncurrent

'

'

216.4

121.8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Non-Recourse Debt

'

23.1

3,052.50

'

'

'

'

'

212.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long Term Solar Energy Systems Financing And Capital Leases

'

'

'

2,697.60

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short Term Solar Energy System Financing And Current Portion Of Long Term Solar Energy System Financing And Capital Lease Obligations

449

394.7

449

394.7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long Term Solar Energy Systems Financing And Capital Leases Less Current Portion

2,603.50

2,302.90

2,603.50

2,302.90

'

7.8

7.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Including Solar Energy Systems Financing

3,942.80

3,576.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Including Solar Energy Systems Financing, Current

451.8

397.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long Term Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Including Solar Energy Systems Financing

$3,491

$3,178.70

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt_and_Capital_Lease_Obligat3

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Non-solar Energy System Debt and Capital Leases) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 20, 2013

Mar. 10, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 28, 2012

Dec. 20, 2013

Dec. 20, 2013

Mar. 10, 2011

Mar. 10, 2011

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Sep. 30, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Second Lien Credit Agreement [Member]

Second Lien Credit Agreement [Member]

2021 Senior Notes [Member]

2019 Senior Notes [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

10% change in stock price [Member]

10% change in stock price [Member]

Interest rate margin in addition to LIBOR [Member]

Defined prime rate plus margin [Member]

100 Basis Point Change in Volatility [Member]

100 Basis Point Change in Volatility [Member]

Conversion Option [Member]

Conversion Option [Member]

Conversion Option [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative [Member]

Warrant Options [Member]

Warrant Options [Member]

Warrant Options [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

2021 Senior Notes [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

2021 Senior Notes [Member]

2018 Senior Notes [Member]

2021 Senior Notes [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Semiconductor Materials [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long Term Solar Energy Systems Financing And Capital Leases Less Current Portion

$2,603.50

'

$2,302.90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$7.80

$7.60

$2,603.50

$2,302.90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

265

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

150

300

50

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net

-451.8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

130

110

'

'

12

9

-316.4

'

'

299.8

'

'

-435.2

'

'

Stock Price

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$18.84

$18.84

'

$18.84

$18.84

'

$18.84

$18.84

Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price

$14.62

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Costs Capitalized

'

3.3

10.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior notes, issued amount

'

'

3,576.20

'

'

600

'

'

200

600

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior note, interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

2.00%

'

'

'

2.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt issuance costs, amortized period (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'8 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number Of Days, Notice To Redeem Note

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'60 days

'30 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument Redemption Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'12 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notes Payable, Noncurrent

'

'

408.2

'

460

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

14.62

14.62

'

18.35

18.35

Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Call Options and Warrants

'

'

82.1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.62%

2.30%

'

1.60%

2.28%

'

1.76%

2.38%

Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

48.00%

48.00%

'

48.00%

48.00%

'

45.00%

45.00%

Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.00%

0.00%

'

0.00%

0.00%

'

0.00%

0.00%

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2018

'2021

'

'2018

'2021

'

'2018

'2021

Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs

'

'

1,167.30

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior Notes

413.3

'

'

466.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

550

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10.75%

'

'

7.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,012.50

'

'

10.6

10.4

1,028

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Non-Recourse Debt

'

'

23.1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,052.50

'

'

'

'

212.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capital Lease Obligations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$84.70

$94

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Collateral Fees

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'7.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.00%

3.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Construction facility interest rate

5.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt_and_Capital_Lease_Obligat4

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Solar Energy System Debt, Financings and Capital Leaseback Obligations) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Sep. 30, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Sep. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 24, 2012

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 20, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Corporate Credit Facility [Member]

Corporate Credit Facility [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Acquisition Facility [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdisons Subsidiary One [Member]

SunEdisons Subsidiary Two [Member]

SunEdisons Subsidiary Two [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Construction and Term Debt [Member]

Other System Financing [Member]

Italy Projects [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Deutsche Bank Credit Line [Member]

Deutsche Bank Credit Line [Member]

Solar Energy Credit Facility [Member]

Defined prime rate plus margin [Member]

Interest rate margin in addition to LIBOR [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Corporate Credit Facility [Member]

SunEdison [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Construction Financing Revolver [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Solar Energy [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Line of Credit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$320

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Collateral Fees

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'7.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2.5

'

'5.8

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.00%

0.00%

Construction facility interest rate

'

'

5.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Costs, Capitalized During Period

3.3

10.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term Debt

'

'

'

0

68.9

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

99.3

68.9

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Non-Recourse Debt

'

23.1

'

3,052.50

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

212.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit, Term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

'

'

265

'

'

'

400

150

300

50

250

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount

'

'

258.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity

'

'

200

'

'

6.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Percent Of Outstanding Balance Required To Post Under Covenant Terms

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

90

'

250

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,012.50

'

'

1,028

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

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

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

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

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

18.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt, Current Maturities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

322.7

305

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales Leaseback Transaction, Capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

124.4

'

101.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capital Lease Obligations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

84.7

94

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sale Leaseback Transaction, Amount Due under Financing Arrangement

'

'

'

1,382.10

1,384.80

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

124.3

94.1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sale Leaseback Transaction Master Lease Agreements Term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'25 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

Sale and Lease Back Available Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.1

7.3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt, proceeds collected under sales agreement, current

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

18.3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt, proceeds collected from sales agreement, noncurrent

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

106.5

41.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notes Payable

'

10.6

413.3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short Term Committed Financing Arrangements Maximum Amount

'

27.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short Term Committed Financing Arrangements Outstanding Amount

'

'

0.1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short Term Committed Financing Arrangements Unavailable Amount Due to Third Party Letters of Credit

'

$13.90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt_and_Capital_Lease_Obligat5

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Other Facilities) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended						9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 28, 2012	Sep. 28, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013
				Corporate Credit Facility [Member]	Corporate Credit Facility [Member]	Corporate Credit Facility [Member]	Second Lien Credit Agreement [Member]	Minimum [Member]
								Corporate Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Senior notes, issued amount	'	$3,576.20	'	'	'	'	$200	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	'	'	265	'	400	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Increase	'	'	'	'	'	0.25%	'	'
Line of Credit, Term	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'3 years
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	'	'	200	6.5	'	'	'	'
Short Term Committed Financing Arrangements Maximum Amount	'	27.4	'	'	'	'	'	'
Short Term Committed Financing Arrangements Unavailable Amount Due to Third Party Letters of Credit	'	13.9	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest Costs, Capitalized During Period	$3.30	$10.40	'	'	'	'	'	'

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Instru2

Derivatives and Hedging Instruments (Derivatives and Hedging Activities) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 28, 2012

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Note Hedge Derivative [Domain]

Conversion Option [Domain]

Warrant Options [Domain]

Accrued Liabilities [Member]

Accrued Liabilities [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]

Prepaid and Other Current Assets [Member]

Prepaid and Other Current Assets [Member]

Prepaid and Other Current Assets [Member]

Prepaid and Other Current Assets [Member]

Second Lien Credit Agreement [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Interest Expense [Member]

Interest Expense [Member]

Other Income [Member]

Other Income [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Accrued Liabilities [Member]

Accrued Liabilities [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Suntech Warrant [Member]

Suntech Warrant [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage

8.20%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity

$200

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net

451.8

'

-299.8

316.4

435.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners

91.80%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability

'

'

'

'

'

-0.8

-0.2

'

'

1

-2.4

'

'

'

'

'

3.1

2.4

-2.3

-1.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.4

11.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

822.9

506.5

-1

2.4

'

705.7

270.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

-1.6

'

'

0

1.6

1.8

1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.7

0.7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

814.6

514.8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior notes, issued amount

'

3,576.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assets, Fair Value Disclosure

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($749.40)

($310.60)

($822.90)

($506.50)

$1

($2.40)

($705.70)

($270.50)

($3.40)

($3.90)

($2.60)

$814.60

$514.80

$0.70

$0.70

$1.80

$2.60

($2.70)

($10.80)

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

'

'

$0

$0

$0

$0

'

'

$0

$0

($715.10)

($264.60)

'

'

$1

'

($2.40)

'

'

$0

$0

($3.90)

($2.60)

'

'

$0

$0

$1.80

$2.60

$8.80

$8.80

$7.50

$10

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Instru3

Derivatives and Hedging Instruments (Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Instruments (Gains) Losses Recognized in Statement of Operations Location	$451.80

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Instru4

Derivatives and Hedging Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended						3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
			Fair Value Hedging [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]	Cash Flow Hedging [Member]	Interest Rate Swap Cash Flow Hedge [Member]	Interest Rate Swap Cash Flow Hedge [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
						instrument			Fair Value Hedging [Member]
South Africa Swap [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest expense	$67.60	$47.50	$1.60	'	'	'	'	'	$1.50
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held	'	'	'	'	'	5	'	'	'
Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives	185.8	'	'	452.4	401.1	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	($3.10)	($2.40)	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Financ

Fair Value Measurements (Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]

Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Equity Option [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Warrant [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Note Hedge Derivative on Convertible Debt [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Forward Contracts [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$3,576.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure

'

3,880.90

2,681.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assets, Fair Value Disclosure

'

'

'

-749.4

-310.6

-2.7

-10.8

-715.1

-264.6

-31.6

-35.2

1

-2.4

0

0

1

'

-2.4

0

0

-822.9

-506.5

0

0

'

'

0

0

-3.9

-2.6

0

0

-3.9

-2.6

0

0

-3.4

'

'

0

0

0

0

-31.6

-35.2

0

0

0

0

-35.2

-35.2

-705.7

-270.5

0

0

'

'

0

0

814.6

514.8

0

0

'

'

0

0

1.8

2.6

0

0

1.8

2.6

0

0

0.7

0.7

'

'

0

0

0

0

Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

814.6

514.8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.7

0.7

'

'

'

'

Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1

($2.40)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($822.90)

($506.50)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($3.40)

($11.50)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($705.70)

($270.50)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Change

Fair Value Measurements (Changes in Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
	Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]	Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
					Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]	Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]	Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
									Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]	Contingent Consideration Related to Acquisitions [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	($0.40)	($24.90)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings	4	0.3	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Ending Balance	'	-24.6	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	'	'	($749.40)	($310.60)	($31.60)	($35.20)	($31.60)	($35.20)	($35.20)	($35.20)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Narrat

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Including Solar Energy Systems Financing	$3,942.80	$3,576.20
Senior notes, issued amount	'	3,576.20
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	$3,880.90	$2,681.20

Income_loss_Per_Share_Details

Income (loss) Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 18, 2013
Equity Offering Shares	'	'	34,500,000
TemporaryEquityAccretionToRedemptionValueAdjustment QTD Basic EPS	'	($2.40)	'
Net loss attributable to SunEdison stockholders	-613.6	-89.4	'
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest	-3.2	0	'
Adjusted net income to common stockholders, basic	-616.8	-91.8	'
Adjusted net income to common stockholders, diluted	($616.80)	($91.80)	'
Weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares)	267,100,000	231,300,000	'
Total shares (in shares)	267,100,000	231,300,000	'
Income (loss) per share, basic (in dollars per share)	($2.31)	($0.40)	'
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	($2.31)	($0.40)	'

Stockholders_Equity_Changes_in

Stockholders' Equity (Changes in Stockholders Equity) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Stockholders Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	5.6	16.5	'
Balance	$341.20	'	'
Net loss	-616	'	-101.4
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	1.2	'	'
Stock plans, net	13.9	'	'
SunEdison - contributions from partner	10	'	'
Balance	-236.5	341.2	'
Temporary Equity, Accretion to Redemption Value, Adjustment	3.1	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	10.1	'	'
Parent [Member]	'	'	'
Stockholders Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance	232.2	'	'
Net loss	-613.6	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	1.3	'	'
Stock plans, net	13.9	'	'
SunEdison - contributions from partner	0	'	'
Balance	-356.1	'	'
Temporary Equity, Accretion to Redemption Value, Adjustment	0	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	10.1	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]	'	'	'
Stockholders Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance	109	'	'
Net loss	-2.4	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	-0.1	'	'
Stock plans, net	0	'	'
SunEdison - contributions from partner	10	'	'
Balance	119.6	'	'
Temporary Equity, Accretion to Redemption Value, Adjustment	3.1	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	$0	'	'

Stockholders_Equity_Narrative_

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 18, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Equity Offering Shares	'	'	'	34,500,000
Common stock, shares authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	91.80%	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	729,680	'	'	'
Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense	$8.60	'	$7.20	'
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	($13.90)	'	'	'
Granted (in shares)	67,500	'	'	'
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.01	$0.01	'	'
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	5,600,000	16,500,000	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	5,700,000	'	'	'
Stock Options [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$7.39	'	$2.23	'
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$15.03	'	$4.55	'

Stockholders_Equity_Outstandin

Stockholders' Equity (Outstanding Stock Options) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]	'
Outstanding shares, beginning balance	23,742,764
Granted (in shares)	67,500
Exercised	-590,242
Forfeited	-729,680
Expired	-13,939
Outstanding shares, ending balance	22,476,403
Stock Options Exercisable	4,397,832
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning balance	$6.64
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$14.76
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$8.91
Forfeited, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$7.25
Expired, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$8.19
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending balance	$6.57
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$12.79
Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$282.30
Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$34.80
Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life, years	'8 years
Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'6 years

Stockholders_Equity_Outstandin1

Stockholders' Equity (Outstanding Restricted Stock) (Details) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]	'	'
Outstanding	4,038,782	'
Granted	479,900	'
Converted	-73,682	'
Forfeited	-90,761	'
Outstanding	4,354,239	'
Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$79,800,000	'
Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life, years	'	'1 year

Comprehesive_Income_Details

Comprehesive Income (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Gain/(loss) on Hedging Instruments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net foreign currency translation adjustment	$1.20	($34.40)	'	'
Actuarial gain and amortization of prior service cost	11.4	'	-33.1	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-0.1	'	0	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	11.5	'	-33.1	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-48.6	-72.9	-60	-39.8
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax	-9.4	-0.6	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income, Other, Net of Tax	11.3	-34.4	'	'
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Gain/(loss) on Hedging Instruments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Actuarial gain and amortization of prior service cost	1.3	'	-33.1	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	0	'	0	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	1.3	'	-33.1	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-18.7	-0.8	-20	32.3
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]	'	'	'	'
Gain/(loss) on Hedging Instruments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Actuarial gain and amortization of prior service cost	'	'	-0.6	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	'	'	0	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	'	'	-0.6	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	-8.2	'	-7.6
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	'	'	'	'
Gain/(loss) on Hedging Instruments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Actuarial gain and amortization of prior service cost	9.4	'	0.6	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	0	'	0	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	9.4	'	0.6	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-3	-3.7	-12.4	-4.3
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Gain/(loss) on Hedging Instruments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Actuarial gain and amortization of prior service cost	0.7	'	0	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-0.1	'	0	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	0.8	'	0	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	($26.90)	($60.20)	($27.60)	($60.20)

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Adjustment for IRS Exam Settlement [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Net	$68.80	$65.70
Cash Cash Equivalents Short term Investments Subject To Repatriation Tax Effect	328	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Subject To Audit	$17.10	'

Variable_Interest_Entities_Det

Variable Interest Entities (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'	'
Current assets	$325.50	$274.10
Noncurrent assets	245.9	167.2
Total assets	571.4	441.3
Current liabilities	17.2	22
Noncurrent liabilities	359.9	275.4
Total liabilities	$377.10	$297.40
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]	'	'
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'	'
Variable Interest Entity, Number Of Entities	12	'

Deferred_Revenue_and_Profit_De

Deferred Revenue and Profit (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]	'	'
Current portion of deferred revenue	$112.50	$154.70
Solar Energy [Member]	'	'
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]	'	'
Profit deferrals on solar energy system sales	-100.3	-68.9
Deferred subsidy revenue	21.3	21.1
Deferred Revenue	$234.10	$244.70

Deferred_Revenue_and_Profit_De1

Deferred Revenue and Profit Deferred Revenue & Profit (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified			Tainergy [Member]
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total deferred revenue	'	'	$25
Deferred revenue, less current portion	$121.60	$90	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

16 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

SunEdison [Member]

Contract Termination [Member]

Purchase Obligation Termination [Member]

2011 Global Plan [Member]

2011 Global Plan [Member]

2011 Global Plan [Member]

2011 Global Plan [Member]

Short Term Contingent Consideration [Domain]

Long Term Contingent Consideration [Domain] [Domain]

SMP JV [Member]

SMP JV [Member]

Contract Termination [Member]

Contract Termination [Member]

Loss Contingencies [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments

$18.70

$18.50

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$17

$133.20

Equity Method Investment Related To Debt And Equity Commitments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

183.8

'

Net loss attributable to SunEdison stockholders

613.6

89.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage

8.20%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners

91.80%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Customer and other deposits, less current portion

80.2

'

103.3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

18.8

18.8

Restructuring Reserve

'

'

'

'

34.9

'

75.9

85.8

34.9

40.2

'

'

'

'

Restructuring Reserve, Current

'

'

'

'

3.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent

'

'

'

'

31.3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum

'

'

'

'

'

163.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability

32

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Contingent consideration related to acquisitions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

11.3

20.3

'

'

Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, Potential Cash Payment

'

'

'

$59.70

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable_Segments_Narrative_

Reportable Segments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
			Solar Energy [Member]	Solar Energy [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Construction Of Solar Energy Systems Capital Expenditures	$326.40	$47.40	$326.40	$47.40

Reportable_Segments_Schedule_o

Reportable Segments (Schedule of Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
			Semiconductor [Domain]	Semiconductor [Domain]	Solar Energy [Member]	Solar Energy [Member]	Solar [Domain]	Solar [Domain]	Tainergy [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$546.50	$443.60	$206.10	$232.40	'	'	$340.40	$211.20	'
Operating Income (Loss)	-78.1	-33.5	-16.9	-4.8	'	'	-61.2	-28.7	'
Interest expense	67.6	47.5	0.2	0.2	'	'	67.4	47.3	'
Depreciation and amortization	62	60.8	28.3	29.3	'	'	33.7	31.5	'
Capital expenditures	346.5	78.2	19.6	30.6	'	'	326.9	47.6	'
Construction of solar energy systems	326.4	47.4	'	'	326.4	47.4	'	'	'
Recognition of Deferred Revenue	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$25

IPO_of_SSL_Details

IPO of SSL (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
SSL IPO Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Equity Investment from JV Partners	$100	'
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired	14.1	0
Korea (South), Won | SMP JV [Member]	'	'
SSL IPO Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired	140,000	'
United States of America, Dollars | SMP JV [Member]	'	'
SSL IPO Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired	$130	'