Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-based compensation
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]
Summary of share based payment awards
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]
Summary of outstanding non-vested stock options
Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block]
Summary of restricted shares granted
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Common stock options
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Restricted shares
Restricted Stock [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Number of potentially dilutive securities
Antidilutive Shares Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Antidilutive Shares excluded from computation of earnings per share.
Total
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Harris
Harris [Member]
Harris [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase agreement, value
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Initial Purchase Agreement, Amount
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Initial Purchase Agreement, Amount
Purchase agreement, potential adjustment, amount
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Initial Purchase Agreement, Contingent Adjustment, Amount
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Initial Purchase Agreement, Contingent Adjustment, Amount
Contingent consideration earn-out value
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Contingent Consideration Earn-out Value
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Contingent Consideration Earn-out Value
Acquisition consideration, cash
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross
Acquisition consideration, debt
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred
Acquisition Consideration, debt term (years)
Business Combination, Potential Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred, Debt Instrument, Term
Business Combination, Potential Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred, Debt Instrument, Term
Acquisition consideration, shares
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares
Acquisition consideration, share price (per share)
Business Acquisition, Acquisition Consideration, Share Price
Business Acquisition, Acquisition Consideration, Share Price
Acquisition share price determination, trading days before purchase agreement
Business Acquisition, Share Price Determination, Threshold Trading Days Before Purchase Agreement
Business Acquisition, Share Price Determination, Threshold Trading Days Before Purchase Agreement
Acquisition share price determination, trading days after purchase agreement
Business Acquisition, Share Price Determination, Threshold Trading Days After Purchase Agreement
Business Acquisition, Share Price Determination, Threshold Trading Days After Purchase Agreement
Purchase accounting provisions, share price (per share)
Business Acquisition, Share Price
Fixed future consideration
Business Combination, Fixed Future Consideration, Amount
Business Combination, Fixed Future Consideration, Amount
Shares of Company common stock, value
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable
Fixed future consideration, fair value of existing common shares (usd per share)
Business Combination, Fixed Future Consideration, Shares, Price Per Share
Business Combination, Fixed Future Consideration, Shares, Price Per Share
Fixed future consideration cash payment
Business Combination, Fixed Future Consideration, Cash
Business Combination, Fixed Future Consideration, Cash
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-term debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $458 and $685 at March 31, 2015 and September 30, 2015, respectively
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Inventories, net
Inventory, Net
Deferred contract costs
Deferred Costs, Current
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Property and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Other intangible assets, net
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Long-term accounts receivable
Accounts Receivable, Net, Noncurrent
Other long-term assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Accrued expenses and other
Accrued Liabilities, Current
Deferred revenue, current
Deferred Revenue, Current
Current maturities of long-term debt and capital leases
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Revolving credit facility
Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent
Long-term debt, less current maturities and capital leases
Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent
Deferred revenue, long-term
Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Commitments and contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Common stock, no par value: Shares authorized: 200,000,000 at March 31, 2015 and September 30, 2015; shares issued: 36,837,864 and 37,034,066 at March 31, 2015 and September 30, 2015; shares outstanding: 27,421,533 and 27,613,046 at March 31, 2015 and September 30, 2015
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Treasury stock: 9,416,331 and 9,421,020 common shares at March 31, 2015 and September 30, 2015
Treasury Stock, Value
Shareholder notes receivable
Receivable from Shareholders or Affiliates for Issuance of Capital Stock
Retained deficit
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Total shareholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Liabilities and Equity
Due from the third party finance company in future periods
Receivables, Long-term Contracts or Programs [Abstract]
Fiscal 2016
Contract Receivable, Due in Remainder of Fiscal Year
Fiscal 2017
Contract Receivable, Due in Year Two
Less: amount representing interest
Interest Receivable
Total gross financed receivable
Contract Receivable
Contingent consideration maximum amount of liability
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High
Contingent consideration minimum amount of liability
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, Low
Contingent consideration, recorded liability
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability
Contingent consideration, recorded as compensation expense
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability to be Recorded
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability to be Recorded
Compensation expense
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant [Roll Forward]
Shares Available for Grant, Beginning Balance
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Shares Available for Grant, Granted to Employee
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant, Shares Issued to Employee
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant, Shares Issued to Employee
Shares Available for Grant, Granted to Non-Employee
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant, Shares Issued to Non-Employee
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant, Shares Issued to Non-Employee
Shares Available for Grant, Forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant, Forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant, Forfeited
Shares Available for Grant, Ending Balance
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Number of Shares, Beginning Balance
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Number of Shares, Granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Number of Shares, Forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period
Number of Shares, Exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Number of Shares, Ending Balance
Number of Shares, Exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted Stock Options (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Forfeited (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance (in dollars per share)
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercisable Ending Balance (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, Exercisable Ending Balance (in years)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance (in dollars)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in dollars)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Summary of the effect of net income per common share
Income Statement [Abstract]
Numerator:
Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract]
Net loss
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Denominator:
Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract]
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Weighted-average effect of assumed conversion of stock options and restricted shares
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Weighted-average common shares and common share equivalents outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Net income (loss) per common share:
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted net income (loss) per share (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Cost of product revenue
Cost of Sales [Member]
General and administrative
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Sales and marketing
Selling and Marketing Expense [Member]
Research and development
Research and Development Expense [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation
Share-based Compensation, Allocation and Classification in Financial Statements [Abstract]
Total
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Due from the third party finance company in future periods
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]
Credit quality of the Company's financing receivables using Aging Analysis
Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block]
Inventories
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]
Property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of equipment under capital leases
Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill
Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Changes in warranty accrual
Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block]
Summary of the effect of net income per common share
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Number of potentially dilutive securities
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
INCOME TAXES
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Line Items]
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Line Items]
Shares issued from treasury
Summary Of Issuance Of Stock Under Employee Stock Ownership Plan [Abstract]
Summary of Issuance of Stock Under Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
Shares Issued Under ESPP Plan
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Closing Market Price
Employee Stock Purchase Plan Closing Market Price Of Shares Purchased
Employee stock purchase plans weighted averages purchase price of shares purchased.
Shares Issued Under Loan Program
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Debt Structure Shares Issued
Employee stock purchase plans debt structure shares issued.
Shares Issued Under Loan Program, Total
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Debt Structure Shares Issued Net
Employee stock purchase plans debt structure shares issued net.
Dollar Value of Loans Issued
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Debt Structure Direct Loan Amount
Employee stock purchase plans debt structure direct loan amount.
Dollar Value of Loans Issued, Total
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Debt Structure Direct Loan Amount Net
Employee stock purchase plans debt structure direct loan amount net.
Repayment of Loans
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Debt Structure Direct Loan Repayment Amount
Employee stock purchase plans debt structure direct loan repayment amount.
Repayment of Loans, Total
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Debt Structure Direct Loan Repayment Amount Net
Employee stock purchase plans debt structure direct loan repayment amount net.
STOCK OPTIONS, RESTRICTED SHARES AND WARRANTS
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Domain]
Products and Services [Domain]
High Intensity Fluorescent Lighting Products
High Intensity Fluorescent Lighting Products [Member]
High Intensity Fluorescent Lighting Products [Member]
LED Lighting Products
LED Lighting Products [Member]
LED Lighting Products [Member]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Orion Engineered Systems
Engineered Systems [Member]
Engineered Systems Member
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Accounts receivable are due, Minimum period
Accounts Receivables Due Minimum Period
Accounts receivables due minimum period.
Accounts receivable are due, Maximum period
Accounts Receivables Due Maximum Period
Accounts receivables due maximum period.
Lease receivable provision write-off
Lease Receivable Provision Write-Off
Lease Receivable Provision Write-Off.
Length of time of inventory usage considered for inventory reserve
Inventory Reserve, Length of Time of Inventory Usage Considered
Inventory Reserve, Length of Time of Inventory Usage Considered
Inventory obsolescence reserve
Inventory Valuation Reserves
Unbilled receivables
Unbilled Receivables, Current
Long-term receivables from OTA contracts present value of the future cash flows discounted rate, maximum
Long Term Receivables Present Value Of Future Cash Flows Discounted Rate, Maximum
Long-term receivables present value of future cash flows discounted rate, maximum.
Deferred financing costs
Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net
Deferred financing costs amortized over useful life of debt issue minimum
Deferred Financing costs Amortized Over Useful Life Of Debt Issue Minimum
Deferred Financing costs Amortized Over Useful Life Of Debt Issue Minimum.
Deferred financing costs amortized over useful life of debt issue maximum
Deferred Financing costs Amortized Over Useful Life Of Debt Issue Maximum
Deferred Financing costs Amortized Over Useful Life Of Debt Issue Maximum.
Accrued project costs
Accrued Project Costs
Accrued Project Costs
Limited warranty term
Limited Warranty, Term
Limited Warranty, Term
Product warranty accrual
Product Warranty Accrual
Solar power systems completion period minimum
Solar Power Systems Completion Period Minimum
Solar power systems completion period minimum.
Solar power systems completion period maximum
Solar Power Systems Completion Period Maximum
Solar power systems completion period maximum.
Power purchase agreement product revenue is recognized term
Power Purchase Agreement Product Revenue Recognizable Term
Power purchase agreement product revenue recognizable term.
Deferred tax assets valuation allowance
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount
Employee stock purchase plan activity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Activity [Table Text Block]
Allowances for accounts receivable
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued (shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock, shares outstanding (shares)
Shares, Outstanding
Treasury stock, shares (shares)
Treasury Stock, Shares
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Cost of Sales
Sales Revenue, Services, Net
Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member]
Accounts Receivable
Accounts Receivable [Member]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Supplier Concentration Risk
Supplier Concentration Risk [Member]
Customer Concentration Risk
Customer Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Concentration risk, number of entities involved in risk calculation
Concentration Risk, Number of Entities Involved in Risk Calculation
Concentration Risk, Number of Entities Involved in Risk Calculation
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
U.S. Markets
Energy Management [Member]
Energy Management Member.
Orion Distribution Services
Distribution Services [Member]
Distribution Services [Member]
Corporate and Other
Corporate and Other [Member]
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract]
Revenues
Revenues
Operating Income (Loss)
Operating Income (Loss)
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Assets Held under Capital Leases
Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Depreciation
Depreciation
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document and entity information.
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
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
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Patents
Patents [Member]
Licenses
Licensing Agreements [Member]
Trade name and trademarks
Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]
Customer relationships
Customer Relationships [Member]
Developed technology
Developed Technology Rights [Member]
Non-competition agreement
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount
Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Intangible assets, estimated economic useful life (years)
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Estimated Amortization Expense
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Fiscal 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Fiscal 2017
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Fiscal 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Fiscal 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Fiscal 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Fiscal 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Thereafter
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Total
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Statutory federal tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
State taxes, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Federal tax credit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Percent
State tax credit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Other, Percent
Change in valuation reserve
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent
Permanent items
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Percent
Change in tax contingency reserve
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Contingency, Percent
Other, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent
Effective income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Land and land improvements
Land Improvements [Member]
Buildings
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Leasehold improvements
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Equipment leased to customers under Power Purchase Agreements
Equipment Leased to Other Party [Member]
Plant equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member]
Construction in progress
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract]
Property plant and equipment gross
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization
Net property and equipment
SEGMENTS
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Product revenue
Sales Revenue, Goods, Net
Service revenue
Sales Revenue, Services, Net
Total revenue
Cost of product revenue
Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of service revenue
Cost of Services
Total cost of revenue
Cost of Revenue
Gross (loss) profit
Gross Profit
Operating expenses:
Operating Expenses [Abstract]
General and administrative
General and Administrative Expense
Sales and marketing
Selling and Marketing Expense
Research and development
Research and Development Expense
Total operating expenses
Operating Expenses
Loss from operations
Other income (expense):
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Interest income
Investment Income, Interest
Total other income (expense)
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Loss before income tax
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Income tax expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net loss
Basic net loss per share attributable to common shareholders (in dollars per share)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares)
Diluted net loss per share (in dollars per share)
Weighted-average common shares and share equivalents outstanding (in shares)
LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term Debt [Text Block]
Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table]
Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table]
Financing Receivable Type [Axis]
Financing Receivable Type [Axis]
Financing Receivable Type [Axis]
Financing Receivable Type [Domain]
Financing Receivable Type [Domain]
[Domain] for Financing Receivable Type [Axis]
Not Past Due
Not Past Due [Member]
Not past due.
1-90 days past due
One To Ninety Days [Member]
One to ninety days.
Greater than 90 days past due
Greater Than Ninety Days [Member]
Greater than ninety days.
Total past due
Past Due Lease Net [Member]
Past due lease net.
Total sales-type leases
Sales Type Net [Member]
Sales type net.
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Lease Receivable Provision Write-Off
Credit quality of the Company's financing receivables using Aging Analysis
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Classified [Abstract]
Lease balances included in consolidated accounts receivable—current
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current
Lease balances included in consolidated accounts receivable—long-term
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent
Total gross sales-type leases
Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current
Allowance
Total net sales-type leases
Changes in warranty accrual
Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract]
Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward]
Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward]
Beginning of period
Provision to product cost of revenue
Product Warranty Accrual, Warranties Issued
Charges
Product Warranty Accrual, Payments
End of period
Schedule Of Extinguishment Of Debt [Table]
Schedule of Extinguishment of Debt [Table]
Extinguishment Of Debt [Axis]
Extinguishment of Debt [Axis]
Extinguishment Of Debt Type [Domain]
Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain]
Revolving credit facility
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Harris seller's note
Harris Seller's Note [Member]
Harris Seller's Note [Member]
Customer equipment finance notes payable
Customer Equipment Finance Notes Payable [Member]
Customer equipment finance notes payable.
Equipment lease obligations
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Other long-term debt
Other Long Term Debt [Member]
Other long term debt.
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt, by Current and Noncurrent [Abstract]
Total long-term debt
Long-term Debt
Less current maturities
Long-term debt, less current maturities
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Summary of outstanding warrants exercise price
Schedule Of Warrants
Schedule of warrants.
Weighted-average per share price on grant date
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Number of Warrants (shares)
Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding
Exercise Price (usd per share)
Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Federal
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
State
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Income Taxes (Textual) [Abstract]
Income Tax (Textual) [Abstract]
Income tax textual.
Estimated annual effective tax rate
Operating loss carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Exercise of NQSOs
Operating Loss Carryforwards Associated with Exercise of Non Qualified Stock Options
Exercise of non qualified stock options.
Tax credit carryforwards
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount
Valuation allowance
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount
Unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
Entity that Current Director Owns Minority Interest and Serves as Board of Directors Chairman
Entity that Current Director Owns Minority Interest and Serves as Board of Directors Chairman [Member]
Entity that Current Director Owns Minority Interest and Serves as Board of Directors Chairman [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Purchases from related party
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective income tax rate
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Unrecognized tax benefit activity
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Inventories
Inventory, Net, Items Net of Reserve Alternative [Abstract]
Raw materials and components
Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves
Work in process
Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves
Finished goods
Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves
Total
ACQUISITION
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Buildings and building improvements
Leasehold improvements
Leaseholds and Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Plant equipment
Equipment [Member]
Depreciation using the straight-line method
Property, plant and equipment, useful life (years)
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Property, plant and equipment estimated useful life
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Life
Property plant and equipment estimated useful life.
Principles of Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reclassifications
Reclassifications [Policy Text Block]
Reclassifications.
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts Receivable
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Financing Receivables
Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventories
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Deferred Contract Costs
Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets (Policy Text Block)
Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets Policy
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Long-Term Receivables
Long Term Receivables [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of long-term receivables.
Other Long-Term Assets
Other Long Term Assets [Policy Text Block]
Other Long-Term Assets
Accrued Expenses and Other
Accrued Expenses [Policy Text Block]
Accrued Expenses, Policy
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Stock Based Compensation
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Net Loss per Common Share
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration of Credit Risk and Other Risks and Uncertainties
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table]
Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain]
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain]
Inventories
Inventories [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Rent expense under operating leases
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net
Non-cancellable purchase commitments
Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed
Operating lease commitments
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Purchase obligations
Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
Number of plaintiff's claims dismissed
Loss Contingency, Claims Dismissed, Number
Line of Credit Facility [Table]
Line of Credit Facility [Table]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Credit Agreement
Credit Agreement [Member]
Credit Agreement
Lender Name [Axis]
Lender Name [Axis]
Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain]
Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain]
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association [Member]
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association [Member]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Letter of Credit
Letter of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility current limit
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity
Credit facility, maximum limit
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Credit facility, minimum indebtedness ratio
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms, Minimum Indebtedness Ratio
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms, Minimum Indebtedness Ratio
Basis spread on variable rate (percent)
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Interest payment
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Interest
Interest rate (percent)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage
Unused commitment fee (percent)
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage
Letters of credit outstanding
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount
Credit facility, additional borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility Additional Borrowing Capacity
Line of Credit Facility Additional Borrowing Capacity
Lease agreement, principal amount
Long-term Debt, Gross
Lease interest rate (percent)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Net equipment lease obligation buyout option
Debt Instrument, Buyout Option
Debt Instrument, Buyout Option
Non-Employee Director
Non-Employee Director [Member]
Non-Employee Director [Member]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
2003 Stock Option
Two Thousand Three Stock Option [Member]
Two thousand three stock option.
2004 Stock and Incentive Awards Plan
Two Thousand Four Stock and Incentive and Award Plan [Member]
2004 stock and incentive awards plan.
2003 Stock Option and 2004 Stock and Incentive Awards Plans
2003 Stock Option and 2004 Stock and Incentive Awards Plans [Member]
2003 Stock Option and 2004 Stock and Incentive Awards Plans [Member]
Compensation expense for the six months ended September 30, 2015
Stock Options Restricted Shares and Warrants (Textual) [Abstract]
Stock Options Restricted Shares and Warrants (Textual) [Abstract]
Stock options restricted shares and warrants textual.
Reserved shares for issuance to key employees
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance
Vesting period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Maximum life of option under the plan
Share Based Compensation Arrangements by Share Based Payments Award Option Maximum Life
Share-based compensation by share based payments award options maximum life.
Shares issued
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period
Weighted-average per share price on grant date
Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Per Share Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Per Share Price
Restricted shares granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Grant of shares to consultant as part of consulting compensation agreement
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Quantity of Securities Issued
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Securities Issued Valuation Price Per Share
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Securities Issued Valuation Price Per Share
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Securities Issued Valuation Price Per Share
Compensation cost related to non-vested common stock-based compensation
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Recognition of compensation cost for restricted shares
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Common stock closing price
Fair Value Of Closing Common Stock Price
Fair value of closing common stock price.
Deferred stock-based compensation related to grants of restricted shares, period of recognition
Deferred Compensation Arrangement With Individual Compensation Expense Period of Recognition
Deferred compensation arrangement with individual compensation expense period of recognition.
Deferred stock-based compensation related to grants of restricted shares
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Compensation Expense
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized tax benefits as of beginning of period
Additions based on tax positions related to the current period positions
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Unrecognized tax benefits as of end of period
Underwritten public offering (shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues
Offering price (usd per share)
Shares Issued, Price Per Share
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of offering costs
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock
Number of common stock called by each right (shares)
Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right
Right issue share price (usd per share)
Right issue Share Price
Right issue share price.
Minimum subscription percentage
Minimum Subscription Percentage
Minimum Subscription Percentage
Number of business days (days)
Rights Distribution Date, Trigger, Number of Business Days After Commencement or Offer of Acquisition
Number of business days after the commencement of, or the announcement of an intention to make, a tender offer or exchange offer that would result in any such person or group of persons acquiring such beneficial ownership.
Share acquisition percentage
Acquisition Share Void Percentage
Acquisition share void percentage.
Prior to a person becoming an Acquiring Person, the Board of Directors of the Company's redemption Rate on per Right Shares
Share Purchase Rights Redemption Price
Share purchase rights redemption price.
Employee stock purchase plan authorized
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Shares Authorized
Employee stock purchase plans shares authorized.
Maximum amount limit for ESPP per employee
Maximum Amount Limit For Employee Stock Purchase Plan Per Employee
Maximum amount limit for employee stock purchase plan per employee.
Purchase price to market price matching percentage
Employee Stock Purchase Plan Purchase Price to Market Price Matching Percentage
Purchase price to market price matching percentage.
Sec 16 Officers limit percentage on ESPP based on annual income
Employee Stock Purchase Plan Allowed Loan Amount Percentage Of Annual Income
Allowed loan amount percentage of annual income.
Sec 16 officers maximum limit on ESPP in amounts
Employee Stock Purchase Plans Loan Maximum Outstanding Amount
Employee stock purchase plans loan maximum outstanding amount.
Interest loans charged period
Employee Stock Purchase Plan IRS Loan Interest Rate
Employee Stock Purchase Plan IRS Loan Interest Rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested at March 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Granted
Vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Number of Shares
Forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares
Non-vested at September 30, 2015
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Amortization of long-term assets
Amortization
Stock-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Impairment on assets
Asset Impairment Charges
(Gain) loss on sale of property and equipment
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment
Provision for inventory reserves
Provision for inventory reserves
Provision for inventory reserves
Provision for bad debts
Provision for Doubtful Accounts
Other
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisition:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, current and long-term
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Inventories
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Deferred contract costs
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Charges
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Accrued expenses and other
Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities
Deferred revenue
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue
Net cash used in operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Purchase of property and equipment
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Purchase of short-term investments
Payments to Acquire Short-term Investments
Additions to patents and licenses
Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets
Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Payment of long-term debt and capital leases
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Proceeds from revolving credit facility
Proceeds from Long-term Lines of Credit
Payment of revolving credit facility
Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit
Proceeds from repayment of shareholder notes
Proceeds from Related Party Debt
Repurchase of common stock into treasury
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Deferred financing costs
Payments of Financing Costs
Net proceeds from the exercise of warrants and employee stock options
Proceeds from Exercise of Warrants and Stock Options
Proceeds from Exercise of Warrants and Stock Options
Net cash used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
Supplemental cash flow information:
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Cash paid for interest
Interest Paid
Cash paid for income taxes
Income Taxes Paid
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Vendor financed capital lease addition
Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Value of Consideration Given
Summary of restricted shares granted to key employees
Restricted Shares Issued to Key Employees [Abstract]
Restricted shares issued to key employees.
Balance at March 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Shares issued
Shares vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Shares forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Shares outstanding at September 30, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Total Assets
Deferred Revenue
Deferred Revenue
Segment reporting information
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]