Financial information by segment, Depreciation, amortization and impairment charges recognized (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
Mar. 31, 2018 |
Mar. 31, 2017 |
|
| Financial information by segment [Abstract] | ||
| Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges | $ (74,624) | $ (76,876) |
| Renewable Energy [Member] | ||
| Financial information by segment [Abstract] | ||
| Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges | (67,554) | (69,828) |
| Electric Transmission Lines [Member] | ||
| Financial information by segment [Abstract] | ||
| Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges | (7,070) | (7,048) |
| North America [Member] | ||
| Financial information by segment [Abstract] | ||
| Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges | (23,861) | (31,940) |
| South America [Member] | ||
| Financial information by segment [Abstract] | ||
| Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges | (10,197) | (10,057) |
| EMEA [Member] | ||
| Financial information by segment [Abstract] | ||
| Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges | $ (40,566) | $ (34,879) |