Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Document and Entity Information Document

v2.4.0.6
Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)
In Billions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Feb. 20, 2013
Jun. 30, 2012
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Entity Registrant Name CHENIERE ENERGY INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0000003570    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2012    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2012    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   241,513,095  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 2.7