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Capitalization (Details Narrative) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule of Capitalization [Line Items]
Dividend Reinvestment and Common Stock Purchase Plan, shares	42,472
Dividend Reinvestment and Common Stock Purchase Plan	$ 800
Outside director compensation plan, shares	5,768
Outside director compensation plan	100
Outstanding borrowings under loan	140,075	136,736
Customer advances for construction	21,707	21,944
Carrying amount
Schedule of Capitalization [Line Items]
Other long-term debt for which not practicable to estimate their fair value	49,100	49,300
Customer advances for construction	21,700	21,900
New Jersey Enviornmental Trust Fund
Schedule of Capitalization [Line Items]
Issuance of first mortgage bonds	3,900
Series OO
Schedule of Capitalization [Line Items]
Issuance of first mortgage bonds	3,000
Final Maturity Date	Aug. 01, 2031
Series PP
Schedule of Capitalization [Line Items]
Issuance of first mortgage bonds	900
Interest, minimum	2.00%
Interest, maximum	5.00%
Final Maturity Date	Aug. 01, 2031
Subsidiaries [Member] | Loan - Delaware SRF Program
Schedule of Capitalization [Line Items]
Loan closed under State Revolving Fund program	2,800
Final Maturity Date	Jul. 01, 2031
Rate of interest (as a percent)	3.75%
Outstanding borrowings under loan	2,700
Southern Shore | Loan - Delaware SRF Program
Schedule of Capitalization [Line Items]
Loan closed under State Revolving Fund program	1,600
Final Maturity Date	Nov. 30, 2030
Rate of interest (as a percent)	3.75%
Outstanding borrowings under loan	$ 1,400

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