v2.4.0.6
Document and Entity Information (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011
Mar. 29, 2012
Jun. 30, 2011
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name PLUG POWER INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0001093691    
Trading Symbol plug    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Filer Category Non-accelerated Filer    
Entity Well-Known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   37,767,541  
Entity Public Float     $ 39,112,979
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2011    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY