Equity [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Amortization of prior service cost Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Prior Service Attributable to Parent [Member] Net actuarial gain/(loss) Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Regulatory adjustment Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Regulartory Adjustment, Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Regulartory Adjustment, Attributable to Parent [Member] FSIRS AOCI, Derivative Qualifying as Hedge, Excluded Component, Parent [Member] Foreign Currency Items Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Southwest Gas Corporation Southwest Gas Corporation [Member] Southwest gas corporation. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassifications, Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Reclassification from AOCI, before Tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Reclassification from AOCI, tax Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax Reclassification from AOCI, net of tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Billed on completed contracts and contracts in progress Billed on completed contracts and contracts in progress Billed on completed contracts and contracts in progress. Other receivables Other Receivables Contracts receivable, gross Accounts Receivable, Gross Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Contracts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net Equity, Other Comprehensive Income, and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table] Centuri Centuri Group, Inc. [Member] Centuri Group, Inc. [Member] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items] Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items] Transaction price allocated to unsatisfied performance obligations of contracts Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period Revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Southwest Gas Credit Facility Southwest Gas Credit Facility [Member] Southwest Gas Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Credit facility maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Short term borrowings outstanding Short-term Debt Line of credit designated for working capital purposes Line Of Credit Facility Working Capital Purposes Line Of Credit Facility, Working Capital Purposes Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Background, Organization, and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Leases [Abstract] Leases Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block] Leases Lessee, Finance Leases [Text Block] Contracts receivable, net Revenue earned on contracts in progress in excess of billings Revenue earned on contracts in progress in excess of billings Revenue earned on contracts in progress in excess of billings. Amounts billed in excess of revenue earned on contracts Amounts billed in excess of revenue earned on contracts Amounts billed in excess of revenue earned on contracts. Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Operating lease cost Operating Lease, Cost Finance lease cost: Finance Lease, Cost [Abstract] Amortization of ROU assets Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Interest on lease liabilities Finance Lease, Interest Expense Total finance lease cost Finance Lease, Cost Finance Lease, Cost Short-term lease cost Short-term Lease, Cost Total lease cost Lease, Cost Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Defined benefit pension plans: Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial gain (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, after Tax Amortization of prior service cost Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Amortization of net actuarial loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Regulatory adjustment Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Regulatory Adjustment Net of Tax The portion of the pension, PBOP, and SERP liability that is recoverable in rates net-of-tax. Net defined benefit pension plans Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Forward-starting interest rate swaps (“FSIRS”): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification and Tax [Abstract] Amounts reclassified into net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Net forward-starting interest rate swaps Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Income Statement [Abstract] Operating revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Gas operating revenues Regulated Operating Revenue, Gas Utility infrastructure services revenues Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax Total operating revenues Regulated and Unregulated Operating Revenue Operating expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Net cost of gas sold Utilities Operating Expense, Gas and Petroleum Purchased Operations and maintenance Utilities Operating Expense, Maintenance and Operations Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Taxes other than income taxes Taxes, Miscellaneous Utility infrastructure services expenses Cost of Goods and Services Sold Total operating expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other income and (expenses): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Net interest deductions Interest Expense Other income (deductions) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other income and (expenses) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic earnings per share (in USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share (in USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Average number of common shares (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Average shares (assuming dilution) (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Operating cash flows from operating leases Operating Lease, Payments Operating cash flows from finance leases Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability Financing cash flows from finance leases Finance Lease, Principal Payments, Leases Entered Or Modified During Period Finance Lease, Principal Payments, Leases Entered Or Modified During Period ROU assets obtained in exchange for operating leases obligations Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability ROU assets obtained in exchange for finance leases obligations Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Finance Lease Liability Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Forward-starting interest rate swaps Forward-Starting Interest Rate Swaps [Member] Forward-Starting Interest Rate Swaps [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Arizona ARIZONA California CALIFORNIA Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Natural gas portfolios, maximum % rate Natural Gas Portfolios Percentage Rate Range Maximum The maximum percentage of the natural gas portfolio that is fixed Gains (losses) recognized in income or other comprehensive income for derivative designated cash flow hedges Number of derivative instruments held Derivative, Number of Instruments Held Derivative instrument loss at settlement amortization period Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassification from Accumulated OCI to Income, Estimate of Time to Transfer Business Combinations [Abstract] Summary of Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Number of segments Number of Reportable Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Centuri accounts receivable for services provided to Southwest Due from Related Parties, Current Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Swaps Swap [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Prepaid and other current assets Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Deferred charges and other assets Deferred Charges And Other Assets [Member] Deferred Charges And Other Assets [Member] Other current liabilities Other Current Liabilities [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Regulatory assets/(liabilities) offsetting the derivatives at fair value Derivative Fair Value Of Regulatory Assets Liabilities Offset Amount The net amount as of the balance sheet date of the fair value of derivative assets and (liabilities) that in accordance with regulatory treatment is recoverable in utility rates. Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Natural Gas Operations Natural Gas Operations [Member] Natural Gas Operations [Member] Utility Infrastructure Services Utility Infrastructure Services Segment [Member] Utility Infrastructure Services Segment [Member] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Intersegment Eliminations Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Segment Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Revenues Revenues Segment net income (loss) Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Gas infrastructure services Replacement Gas Construction [Member] Replacement gas construction. Electric power infrastructure services New Gas Construction [Member] New Gas Construction [Member] Other Other Construction [Member] Other construction. Contract with Customer, Basis of Pricing [Axis] Contract with Customer, Basis of Pricing [Axis] Contract with Customer, Basis of Pricing [Domain] Contract with Customer, Basis of Pricing [Domain] Master services agreement Master Services Agreement [Member] Master Services Agreement [Member] Bid contract Bid Contract [Member] Bid contract. Unit priced contracts Unit Priced Contracts [Member] Unit priced contracts. Fixed priced contracts Fixed-price Contract [Member] Time and materials contracts Time-and-materials Contract [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Revenue from contracts with customers Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Common Stock Activity Schedule Of Common Stock Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Common Stock Activity [Table Text Block] Detailed Activities of Equity and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Related Tax Effects Allocated to Each Component of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule Of Related Tax Effects Allocated To Components Of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Related tax effects of defined benefit pension plans and designated hedging activities reclassifications and amounts arising during the period included in other comprehensive income (loss). Rollforward of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Amount Recognized Before Income Tax in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Qualified Retirement Plan Other Pension Plan [Member] SERP Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan [Member] PBOP Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets Amortization of prior service costs Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Amortization of net actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Schedule of Carrying Amounts and Estimated Fair Values of Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] Operating lease ROU assets Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability Lease remaining lease term Lessee, Operating Lease, Remaining Lease Term Lessee, Operating Lease, Remaining Lease Term Lease renewal term (up to) Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term Lease termination period Lessee, Operating Lease, Termination Period Lessee, Operating Lease, Termination Period Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Utility plant: Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Gas plant Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Plant in Service Less: accumulated depreciation Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Accumulated Depreciation Construction work in progress Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Construction Work in Progress Net utility plant Public Utilities, Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Other property and investments Other Property And Investments Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of other property and investments not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, net of allowances Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accrued utility revenue Accrued Utility Revenue Accrued utility revenue. Income taxes receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Deferred purchased gas costs Deferred Gas Cost Prepaid and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Noncurrent assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Goodwill Goodwill Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Deferred charges and other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent, Other than Noncurrent Investments and Property, Plant and Equipment Total assets Assets CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Capitalization: Capitalization, Long-term Debt and Equity [Abstract] Common stock, $1 par (authorized - 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding - 53,391,731 and 53,026,848 shares) Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc. equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Redeemable noncontrolling interest Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Long-term debt, less current maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Total capitalization Capitalization, Long-term Debt and Equity Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current maturities of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Short-term debt Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Customer deposits Customer Deposits, Current Income taxes payable Taxes Payable, Current Accrued general taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Deferred purchased gas costs Deferred Gas Purchases, Current Payable to parent Due to Affiliate, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Deferred income taxes and other credits: Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits Deferred Income Taxes And Unamortized Investment Tax Credits Represents deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. Additionally, this element includes the future effects on income taxes attributable to investment tax credits. Accumulated removal costs Other Accrued Liabilities, Noncurrent Other deferred credits and other long-term liabilities Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total deferred income taxes and other credits Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total capitalization and liabilities Liabilities and Equity Summary of Revenue Disaggregated by Service Type and Contract Type Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Summary of Information about Receivables, Revenue Earned on Contracts in Progress in Excess of Billings, Which are Included Within Accounts Receivable, Net of Allowances, and Amounts Billed in Excess of Revenue Earned on Contracts Schedule of information about receivables, revenue earned on contracts in progress in excess of billings, and amounts billed in excess of revenue earned on contracts [Table Text Block] Schedule of information about receivables, revenue earned on contracts in progress in excess of billings, and amounts billed in excess of revenue earned on contracts. Schedule of Construction Services Contracts Receivable Schedule of Construction Services Contracts Receivable [Table Text Block] Schedule of Construction Services Contracts Receivable [Table Text Block] Amount of FSIRS existing AOCI losses expected to reclassified income in next twelve months Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months, Net Short-Term Debt Short-term Debt [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Pooled Funds and Mutual Funds Money Market Funds [Member] Inventory [Axis] Inventory [Axis] Inventory [Domain] Inventory [Domain] Gas Pipe Materials and Supplies Gas Pipe Inventory And Operating Supplies [Member] Gas pipe inventory and operating supplies. Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 2 - Significant Other Observable Inputs Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Linetec Linetec Services, LLC [Member] Linetec Services, LLC [Member] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Percentage of voting interests acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Money market fund investments Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Purchase consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Gas pipe materials and operating supplies Materials, Supplies, and Other Prepaid and other current assets Regulatory Assets, Current Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Dividends declared but not yet paid Dividends Payable, Current Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Accounts receivable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Revenue earned on contracts in progress in excess of billings Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Current Assets Other Receivables Business combination recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed current assets other receivables. Prepaid expenses and other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Property and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Total assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Accounts payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Accrued liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Liabilities Deferred compensation and related accrued taxes Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Compensation And Related Accrued Taxes Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Compensation And Related Accrued Taxes Redeemable noncontrolling interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Total liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interest Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Measurement Period Adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract] Accounts receivable, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Accounts Receivable Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Accounts Receivable Revenue earned on contracts in progress in excess of billings, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Revenue Earned On Contracts In Progress In Excess Of Billings Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Revenue Earned On Contracts In Progress In Excess Of Billings Prepaid expenses and other current assets, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets Property and equipment, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Intangible assets, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Goodwill, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Goodwill Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Goodwill Total assets acquired, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Assets Accrued liabilities, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Accrued Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Accrued Liabilities Total liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interest, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Liabilities Net assets acquired, measurement period adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Assets Acquired, Goodwill And Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Assets Acquired, Goodwill And Liabilities Assumed, Net Movement In Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Movement In Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Movement In Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Balance, December 31, 2018 Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Balance, March 31, 2019 Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and entity information. Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Corporate and administrative Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Other income (deductions) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Change in COLI policies Life Insurance, Corporate or Bank Owned, Change in Value Interest income Interest Income, Other Equity AFUDC Public Utilities, Allowance for Funds Used During Construction, Capitalized Cost of Equity Foreign transaction gain (loss) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Other components of net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss), Immediate Recognition as Component in Net Periodic Benefit (Cost) Credit Miscellaneous income and (expense) Miscellaneous Income Expense Miscellaneous income (expense). Total other income (deductions) Other deferred credits Other Deferred Credits And Other Long-term Liabilities [Member] Other Deferred Credits And Other Long-term Liabilities [Member] Derivative assets Derivative Asset Derivative liabilities Derivative Liability Net Assets (Liabilities) Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Commercial Paper Program Commercial Paper Program [Member] Commercial Paper Program [Member] Secured Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan Secured Revolving Credit Facility Term Loan [Member] Secured Revolving Credit Facility Term Loan [Member] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Centuri term loan facility Centuri Term Loan Facility [Member] Centuri term loan facility. Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Alternative Base Rate Alternative Base Rate [Member] Alternative Base Rate [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Line of credit designated as long term debt Line Of Credit Facility Amount Classified As Long Term Debt Line Of Credit Facility, Amount Classified As Long-Term Debt Applicable margin Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Long-term debt Long-term Debt Borrowings outstanding under facility Long-term Line of Credit Debt secured by assets Debt Instrument, Collateral Amount Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Deferred income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Changes in current assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable, net of allowances Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accrued utility revenue Increase (Decrease) in Unbilled Receivables Deferred purchased gas costs Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Gas Cost Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued taxes Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Taxes Payable Other current assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets and Liabilities, Net Gains on sale Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Changes in undistributed stock compensation Share-based Compensation AFUDC Increase (Decrease) in Allowance for Equity Funds Used During Construction Changes in other assets and deferred charges Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Changes in other liabilities and deferred credits Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Construction expenditures and property additions Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Changes in customer advances Increase (Decrease) in Customer Advances Miscellaneous inflows Proceeds From Miscellaneous Investing Activities Proceeds from miscellaneous investing activities. Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Issuance of common stock, net Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Contributions from parent Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Centuri distribution to redeemable noncontrolling interest Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Issuance of long-term debt, net Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Retirement of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Change in credit facility and commercial paper Proceeds From Repayments Of Lines Of Credit And Commercial Paper The net cash inflow or cash outflow from a contractual arrangement with the lender, including letter of credit, standby letter of credit and revolving credit arrangements, under which borrowings can be made up to a specific amount at any point in time with either short term or long term maturity that is collateralized (backed by pledge, mortgage or other lien in the entity's assets) and issuing (borrowing) and repaying commercial paper Change in short-term debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Principal payments on finance lease obligations Finance Lease, Principal Payments Redemption of Centuri shares from noncontrolling parties Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Withholding remittance - share-based compensation Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effects of currency translation on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Change in cash and cash equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Income taxes paid (received) Income Taxes Paid, Net Operating leases Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due [Abstract] 2020 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2024 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less imputed interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total Finance leases Finance Lease Liabilities, Payments, Due [Abstract] 2020 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2021 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2022 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2023 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2024 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less imputed interest Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total Finance Lease, Liability Components of Lease Expense, and Supplemental Cash Flow Information Related to Leases Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Supplemental Information Related to Leases Included in Balance Sheet Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block] Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Operating Lease Liabilities Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Finance Lease Liabilities Finance Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Rental and Lease Payments Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Asset derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset, at Fair Value Liability derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability, at Fair Value Net total not designated as hedging instruments Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments at Fair Value, Net Schedule of Segment Reporting Information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Common Stock Common Stock Disclosure [Text Block] Common Stock Disclosure [Text Block] Amortization of net actuarial loss AOCI Attributable to Parent AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Beginning balance, before tax Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest, Before Tax Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest, Before Tax Beginning balance, tax Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest, Tax Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest, Tax Beginning balance Beginning balance, attributable to parent, before tax Stockholders' Equity Attributable To Parent, Before Tax Stockholders' Equity Attributable To Parent, Before Tax Beginning balance, attributable to parent, tax Stockholders' Equity Attributable To Parent, Tax Stockholders' Equity Attributable To Parent, Tax Beginning balance, attributable to parent Ending balance, attributable to parent, before tax Ending balance, attributable to parent, tax Ending balance, attributable to parent Ending balance, before tax Ending balance, tax Ending balance Nature of Operations Nature Of Operations [Policy Text Block] Nature Of Operations [Policy Text Block] Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Standards Updates New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment [Table] Investment [Table] Investment [Line Items] Investment [Line Items] Net cash surrender value of COLI policies Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Other property Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Net Total Centuri property, equipment, and intangibles Property Plant Equipment And Intangible Assets Gross Property plant equipment and intangible assets gross. Centuri accumulated depreciation/amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Regulatory Agency [Axis] Regulatory Agency [Axis] Regulatory Agency [Domain] Regulatory Agency [Domain] Regulatory Deferral Accounting Treatment Regulatory Deferral Accounting Treatment [Member] Regulatory Deferral Accounting Treatment [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Net cost of gas sold Net Cost Of Gas Sold [Member] Net Cost Of Gas Sold [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Amount of gain or (loss) recognized in income on derivative Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Business Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] Ownership percentage by noncontrolling owners Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Acquisition costs Acquisition Costs, Period Cost Contract notional amounts Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Paid to counterparties Payments For Derivative Instrument Operating Activities The cash outflow for derivative instruments during the period, which are classified as operating activities, excluding those designated as hedging instruments. Received from counterparties Proceeds from Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities Derivatives Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Other Property and Investments Investment [Table Text Block] Accounts Receivable for Services Accounts Receivable For Services [Table Text Block] Accounts Receivable For Services Table Text Block. Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Other Income (Deductions) Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income, by Component [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Restricted Stock/Unit Plan, and Management Incentive Plan Restricted Stock/Unit Plan, And Management Incentive Plan [Member] Restricted Stock/Unit Plan, And Management Incentive Plan [Member] Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan Dividend Reinvestment And Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Dividend Reinvestment And Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] Equity Shelf Program Equity Shelf Program [Member] Equity Shelf Program [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Maximum aggregate market value of potential common stock issuance Maximum Aggregate Market Value Of Potential Stock Issuance The amount of maximum aggregate market value of potential stock issuance under the program. Gross proceeds Proceeds From Issuance Of Common Stock, Gross Proceeds From Issuance Of Common Stock, Gross Agent commissions Payments of Stock Issuance Costs Net proceeds to company Number of shares sold (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Weighted average price per share Common Stock Weighted Average Issue Price Per Share Common stock weighted average issue price per share. Common stock issued through Restricted Stock/Unit Plan, and Management Incentive Plan (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Common stock issued, amount Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Common stock available for issuance (in shares) Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Notional Amounts under Swaps Contracts Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Amount of Gain or Losses Recognized in Income on Derivatives Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Fair Values of Swaps in Consolidated Balance Sheets Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Paid to and Received from Counterparties for Settlements of Matured Swaps Paid And Received From Counterparties For Settlements Of Matured Swaps [Table Text Block] Paid and Received From Counterparties for Settlements of Matured Swaps [Table Text Block] Regulatory Assets/Liabilities Offsetting Derivatives at Fair Value in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Regulatory Assets Or Liabilities Offsetting Amounts In Financial Position [Table Text Block] Regulatory Assets or Liabilities Offsetting Amounts In Financial Position [Table Text Block] Summary of Financial Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Rental payments/lease expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Percentage of interest retained by noncontrolling party subject to election Noncontrolling Interest, Percentage Of Interest Retained By Noncontrolling Party Subject To Election Noncontrolling Interest, Percentage Of Interest Retained By Noncontrolling Party Subject To Election Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Residential Residential [Member] Residential. Small commercial Small Commercial [Member] Small commercial. Large commercial Large Commercial [Member] Large commercial. Industrial/other Industrial/other [Member] Industrial/other. Transportation Transportation [Member] Transportation. Tax Reform Savings Revenue Adjustments Tax Reform Savings Revenue Adjustments [Member] Tax reform savings revenue adjustments. Alternative revenue program revenues (deferrals) Alternative Revenue Program Revenues (Deferrals) Alternative revenue program revenues (deferrals). Other revenues Other Revenue Other Revenue Total Gas operating revenues Common stock, par (in USD per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Schedule Of Stockholders Equity [Table] Schedule Of Stockholders Equity [Table] Schedule Of Stockholders Equity [Table] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Non-controlling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Schedule Of Stockholders Equity [Line Items] Schedule Of Stockholders Equity [Line Items] Schedule Of Stockholders Equity [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance (in shares) Common stock issuances (in shares) Common stock issuances Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Foreign currency exchange translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial gain (loss) arising during period, less amortization of unamortized benefit plan cost, net of tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Other FSIRS amounts reclassified to net income, net of tax Reclassification of excess deferred taxes Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings Tax Effect Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings tax effect. Stock-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Dividends declared Dividends, Common Stock Contributions from Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc. Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Contributions From Parent Adjustments to additional paid in capital contributions from parent. Ending balance (in shares) Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Net income (loss) Temporary Equity, Net Income Ending balance Dividends declared per share (in USD per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Summary of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill, beginning balance Measurement Period Adjustment - Linetec acquisition Goodwill, Acquired During Period Foreign currency translation adjustment Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Goodwill, ending balance Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Amount Reported Value Measurement [Member] Market Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debentures Debentures [Member] Debentures [Member] Industrial development revenue bonds Industrial Development Revenue Bonds [Member] Industrial Development Revenue Bonds [Member] Notes, 4.45%, due 2020 Debentures Notes Four Point Four Five Percentage Due Two Thousand And Twenty [Member] Debentures Notes Four Point Four Five Percentage Due Two Thousand And Twenty [Member] Notes, 6.1%, due 2041 Debentures Notes Six Point One Percentage Due Two Thousand And Forty One [Member] Debentures Notes Six Point One Percentage Due Two Thousand And Forty One [Member] Notes, 3.875%, due 2022 Debentures Notes Three Point Eight Seven Five Percentage Due Two Thousand And Twenty Two [Member] Debentures Notes Three Point Eight Seven Five Percentage Due Two Thousand And Twenty Two [Member] Notes, 4.875%, due 2043 Debentures Notes Four Point Eight Seven Five Percentage Due Two Thousand And Forty Three [Member] Debentures Notes Four Point Eight Seven Five Percentage Due Two Thousand And Forty Three [Member] Notes, 3.8%, due 2046 Debentures Notes Three Point Eight Percentage Due Two Thousand And Forty Six [Member] Debentures notes three point eight percentage due two thousand and forty six. Notes, 3.7%, due 2028 Debentures Notes Three Point Seven Percentage Due Two Thousand And Twenty Eight [Member] Debentures notes three point seven percentage due two thousand and twenty eight. 8% Series, due 2026 Debentures Eight Percentage Series Due Two Thousand And Twenty Six [Member] Debentures Eight Percentage Series Due Two Thousand And Twenty Six [Member] Medium-term notes, 7.78% series, due 2022 Debentures Medium Term Notes Seven Point Seven Eight Percentage Series Due Two Thousand And Twenty Two [Member] Debentures Medium Term Notes Seven Point Seven Eight Percentage Series Due Two Thousand and Twenty Two [Member] Medium-term notes, 7.92% series, due 2027 Debentures Medium Term Notes Seven Point Nine Two Percentage Series Due Two Thousand And Twenty Seven [Member] Debentures Medium Term Notes Seven Point Nine Two Percentage Series Due Two Thousand and Twenty Seven [Member] Medium-term notes, 6.76% series, due 2027 Debentures Medium Term Notes Six Point Seven Six Percentage Series Due Two Thousand And Twenty Seven [Member] Debentures Medium Term Notes Six Point Seven Six Percentage Series Due Two Thousand and Twenty Seven [Member] Revolving credit facility and commercial paper Revolving Credit Facility And Commercial Paper [Member] Revolving Credit Facility And Commercial Paper [Member] Tax-exempt Series A, due 2028 Variable Rate Bonds Tax Exempt Series A- Due Two Thousand And Twenty Eight [Member] Variable Rate Bonds Tax Exempt Series Due Two Thousand and Twenty Eight [Member] 2003 Series A, due 2038 Variable Rate Bonds Two Thousand And Three Series A- Due Two Thousand And Thirty Eight [Member] Variable Rate Bonds Two Thousand and Three Series A Due Two Thousand and Thirty Eight [Member] 2008 Series A, due 2038 Variable Rate Bonds Two Thousand And Eight Series A- Due Two Thousand And Thirty Eight [Member] Variable Rate Bonds Two Thousand and Eight Series A Due Two Thousand and Thirty Eight [Member] 2009 Series A, due 2039 Variable Rate Bonds Two Thousand And Nine Series A- Due Two Thousand And Thirty Nine [Member] Variable Rate Bonds Two Thousand and Nine Series A Due Two Thousand and Thirty Nine [Member] Centuri other debt obligations Centuri Other Debt Obligations [Member] Centuri Other Debt Obligations [Member] Centuri secured revolving credit facility Centuri Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Centuri secured revolving credit facility. Notes payable Notes Payable Notes payable, fair value disclosure Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs Debt Instrument Unamortized Discount And Debt Issuance Costs Debt instrument unamortized discount and debt issuance costs. Line of credit facility Line of credit facility, fair value Lines of Credit, Fair Value Disclosure Unsecured debt Unsecured Debt Unsecured debt, fair value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Less: current maturities Long-term debt, less current maturities Unamortized debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Long-term Debt, Current and Noncurrent Abstract Long-term Debt, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt Centuri secured revolving credit facility Secured Debt Centuri other debt obligations Other Long-term Debt Debt instrument interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Number of operating segment Number of Operating Segments Change in contract liability, revenue recognized Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized Number of contracts with original duration more than one year Revenue Recognition, Number Of Contracts With Original Duration More Than One Year Revenue Recognition, Number Of Contracts With Original Duration More Than One Year Operating lease liabilities, current Operating Lease, Liability, Current Operating lease liabilities, noncurrent Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Operating lease liabilities Operating lease, weighted average remaining lease term (in years) Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Operating lease, weighted average discount rate Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Finance lease ROU assets Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Finance lease liabilities, current Finance Lease, Liability, Current Finance lease liabilities, noncurrent Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Finance lease liabilities Finance lease, weighted average remaining lease term (in years) Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Finance lease, weighted average discount rate Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block] Net actuarial (loss) gain Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Gain (Loss), before Tax Prior service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Less: amount recognized in regulatory assets Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amount Recognized Regulatory Assets, Before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amount Recognized Regulatory Assets, Before Tax Recognized in AOCI Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax