v3.8.0.1
Project debt, Movements of project debt (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Project Debt - Long Term [Abstract]    
Beginning balance $ 4,629,184 $ 3,574,464
Increases 52,027 36,842
Decreases (42,560) 0
Currency translation differences 316,646 (64,426)
Reclassifications 273,620 1,082,304
Ending balance 5,228,917 4,629,184
Project Debt - Short Term [Abstract]    
Beginning balance 701,283 1,896,205
Increases 304,707 329,434
Decreases (509,131) (480,969)
Currency translation differences 23,052 38,917
Reclassifications (273,620) (1,082,304)
Ending balance 246,291 701,283
Total Project Debt [Abstract]    
Beginning balance 5,330,467 5,470,669
Increases 356,734 366,276
Decreases (551,691) (480,969)
Currency translation differences 339,698 (25,509)
Reclassifications 0 0
Ending balance $ 5,475,208 $ 5,330,467