Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Contract amortization expense Contra Revenue Intangibles Amortization Intangibles Amortization recorded to contra-revenue account Future amortization expense, next twelve months Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Future amortization expense, year two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Future amortization expense, year three Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Future amortization expense, year four Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Future amortization expense, year five Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025 [Member] 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025 [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] 4.75% Senior Notes due 2028 4.75% Senior Notes due 2028 [Member] 4.75% Senior Notes due 2028 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 2 Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alta Wind I-V, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 and 2035 Alta Wind I-V, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 and 2035 [Member] Alta Wind I-V, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 and 2035 [Member] Buckthorn Solar, due 2025 Buckthorn Solar, due 2025 [Member] Buckthorn Solar, due 2025 [Member] Carlsbad Holdco, due 2038 Carlsbad Holdco Notes, 2038 [Member] Carlsbad Holdco Notes, 2038 [Member] Carlsbad Energy Holdings LLC, due 2027 Carlsbad Energy Holdings LLC, due 2027 [Member] Carlsbad Energy Holdings LLC, due 2027 [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] Duquesne Due 2059 Duquesne Due 2059 [Member] Duquesne Due 2059 [Member] El Segundo Energy Center, due 2023 El Segundo Energy Center, due 2023 [Member] El Segundo Energy Center, due 2023 [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series D, E, F, G, H Notes, due 2025-2037 Energy Center Minneapolis Series D, E, F, G, H Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series D, E, F, G, H Notes [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Kansas South, due in 2030 Kansas South, due in 2030 [Member] Kansas South, due in 2030 [Member] Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC, due 2026 Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC, due 2026 [Member] Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC, due 2026 [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Oahu Solar Holdings LLC, due 2026 Oahu Solar Holdings LLC, due 2026 [Member] Oahu Solar Holdings LLC, due 2026 [Member] Repowering Partnership Holdco LLC, due 2020 Repowering Partnership Holdco LLC, due 2020 [Member] Repowering Partnership Holdco LLC, due 2020 [Member] South Trent Wind Due 2028 South Trent Wind Due 2028 [Member] South Trent Wind Due 2028 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2031 Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2031 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2031 [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] Other Debt Other Debt [Member] Represents other debt instruments not separately accounted disclosed. Project Level Debt Project Level Debt [Member] Project Level Debt [Member] 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 [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Outstanding aggregate principal amount Long-term Debt Senior Notes Senior Notes Less current maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Less net debt issuance costs Debt Issuance Costs, Net Less discounts Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Total long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Interest rate, percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Description of variable rate basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Commodity contracts Commodity Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract Interest Rate Contract [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative instruments Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Net amount Derivative Asset Derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Net amount Derivative Liability Fair value of gross derivative assets/(liabilities), net Fair Value of Gross Derivative Assets/(Liabilities), Net Fair value of gross derivative assets less fair value of gross derivative liabilities. Derivative instruments Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Net amount Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Leases [Abstract] Operating lease cost Operating Lease, Cost Variable lease cost Variable Lease, Cost Total lease cost Lease, Cost ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Right-of-use assets, net Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Short-term lease liability - operating leases Operating Lease, Liability, Current Long-term lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Total lease liability - operating leases Operating Lease, Liability Cash paid for operating leases Operating Lease, Payments Weighted average remaining lease term Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Weighted average discount rate Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Class A Common Class A [Member] Common Class C Common Class C [Member] Class of Stock Class of Stock [Line Items] Total operating revenues Revenues Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Net loss Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (loss) income attributable to Clearway Energy, Inc. Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Weighted average number of shares outstanding, basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Weighted average number of shares outstanding, diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted (Loss) Earnings per weighted average common share — basic and diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Net income/(loss) per weighted average common share - basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings per share, diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC [Member] Represents the GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC which wholly-owns GenConn Energy LLC. Desert Sunlight Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] Investments, Other Investments, Other [Member] Investments, Other [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Total operating revenue Current assets Assets, Current Non-current assets Assets, Noncurrent Current liabilities Liabilities, Current Non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Estimated carrying amounts and fair values Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Level within fair value hierarchy Fair Value Option, Disclosures [Table Text Block] Assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Interest Rate Swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] NRG Solar Alpine LLC NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] Avra Valley Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] AWAM AWAM [Member] AWAM [Member] Blythe Blythe [Member] Blythe [Member] Buckthorn Solar Buckthorn Solar [Member] Buckthorn Solar [Member] El Segundo El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] Kansas South Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Laredo Ridge Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Marsh Landing Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] Roadrunner Roadrunner [Member] Roadrunner [Member] South Trent South Trent [Member] South Trent [Member] Tapestry Wind Tapestry Wind [Member] Tapestry Wind [Member] Utah Portfolio Utah Portfolio [Member] Utah Portfolio [Member] Viento Funding II Viento Funding II [Member] Viento Funding II [Member] Walnut Creek Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] WCEP Holdings WCEP Holdings [Member] WCEP Holdings [Member] Oahu Solar Holdings LLC Debt Oahu Solar Holdings LLC Debt [Member] Oahu Solar Holdings LLC Debt [Member] Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC Debt Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC Debt [Member] Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC Debt [Member] Carlsbad Drop Down Carlsbad Drop Down [Member] Carlsbad Drop Down [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - May 15, 2031 Maturity - May 15, 2031 [Member] Maturity - May 15, 2031 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2041 Maturity - December 31, 2041 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2041 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2030 Maturity - December 31, 2030 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2030 [Member] Maturity - March 31, 2026 Maturity - March 31, 2026 [Member] Maturity - March 31, 2026 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 Maturity - June 30, 2023 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - June14, 2020 Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - September 30, 2036 Maturity - September 30, 2036 [Member] Maturity - September 30, 2036 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2028 Maturity - June 30, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2028 [Member] Maturity - May 31, 2023 Maturity - May 31, 2023 [Member] Maturity - May 31, 2023 [Member] Maturity - October 31, 2040 Maturity - October 31, 2040 [Member] Maturity - October 31, 2040 [Member] Maturity - September 30, 2027 Maturity - September 30, 2027 [Domain] Maturity - September 30, 2027 [Domain] Percentage of principal Percentage of Debt Hedged by Interest Rate Derivatives Fixed interest rate Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Description of variable rate basis Notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Energy Center Minneapolis Series E Notes Energy Center Minneapolis Series E Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series E Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series G Notes Energy Center Minneapolis Series G Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series G Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series H Notes Energy Center Minneapolis Series H Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series H Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series E, F, G, H Notes Energy Center Minneapolis Series E, F, G, H Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series E, F, G, H Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series C Notes Energy Center Minneapolis Series C Notes [Member] Energy Center Minneapolis Series C Notes [Member] Proceeds from energy center notes Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Aggregate principal amount repurchased Repayments of Debt Net borrowings Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings (Loss) Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Common Class B Common Class B [Member] Common Class D Common Class D [Member] Common Class D [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Par value - preferred stock (in usd per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Par value - common stock (in usd per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Oahu Solar Partnership Oahu Solar Partnership [Member] Oahu Solar Partnership [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] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Lease liability Right of use assets, net Lease expense Operating Lease, Expense Lease expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Lease period Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Number of renewal options Lessee, Operating Lease, Number of Renewal Options Lessee, Operating Lease, Number of Renewal Options Renewal period Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring Fair Value, Recurring [Member] Power Generation Facilities by Type [Axis] Power Generation Facilities by Type [Axis] The types of power generation facilities included in the entity's total global generation portfolio. Power Generation Facilities, Type [Domain] Power Generation Facilities, Type [Domain] Listing of power generation facilities included in the entity's total global generation portfolio. Solar Facilities Solar Facilities [Member] Solar Facilities [Member] PG&E PG&E [Member] PG&E [Member] Nature of Business [Line Items] Nature of Business [Line Items] [Line Items] for Nature of Business [Table] Total losses for the period included in earnings Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Percent of derivative liabilities using level 3 fair value inputs Percent of Derivative Liabilities Using Level 3 Fair Value Inputs Percent of Derivative Liabilities Using Level 3 Fair Value Inputs Fair value assets, measured on recurring basis, valuation techniques, impact of credit reserve to fair value Fair Value Assets, Measured on Recurring Basis, Valuation Techniques, Impact of Credit Reserve to Fair Value This element represents the increase (decrease) to fair value from applying a credit reserve to reflect credit risk on the valuation techniques used to measure fair value of Level 2 and 3 derivative contracts which is calculated based on credit default swaps. Steam and chilled water capacity, megawatts thermal equivalent Steam and Chilled Water Capacity, Megawatts Thermal Equivalent The generation capacity of the entity's thermal power generation facilities as of the balance sheet date, expressed in megawatts thermal equivalent. Number of solar leases in portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Accounts receivable, related parties Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Accounts receivable, related parties, noncurrent Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Noncurrent Investments accounted for by the equity method and variable interest entities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Leased to Others Assets Leased to Others [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2023 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2024 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term debt, gross Long-term Debt, Gross Net notional volume buy/(sell) of NRG Yield's open derivative transactions broken out by commodity Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Fair value within the derivative instrument valuation on the balance sheets Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Offsetting of derivatives by counterparty master agreement level and collateral received or paid Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block] Effects of NRG Yield's accumulated OCI balance attributable to interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedge derivatives, net of tax Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] 2020 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Next Twelve Months 2021 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Two Years 2022 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Three Years 2023 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Four Years 2024 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Five Years Thereafter Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Thereafter Total lease payments Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Southern California Edison Southern California Edison [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Conventional Generation Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Renewables Renewables [Member] Renewables [Member] Thermal Thermal [Member] Represents Thermal segment of the entity. Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Customer's percentage of total revenue Customer's Percentage of Total Revenue Customer's Percentage of Total Revenue Cost of operations Cost of Revenue Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Impairment losses Asset Impairment Charges General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Transaction and integration costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Development costs Costs Incurred, Development Costs Operating Income Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Loss on debt extinguishment Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest expense, net Interest Expense Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax (benefit) expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net (Loss) Income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Clearway Energy, Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Equity investments in affiliates Equity Method Investments Capital expenditures Capital Expenditures Represents amount of total Capital expenditures including accruals pertaining to repowering of entity's projects, major maintenance and meeting environmental commitments. Total Assets Assets Income Statement [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of income tax expense of $1, $2, and $7 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification and Tax Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive (Loss) Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Pre-acquisition net income of Drop Down Assets Less: Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Less: Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Less: Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive (Loss) Income Attributable to Clearway Energy, Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Table] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Table] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Tax Equity Investors Tax Equity Investors [Member] Tax Equity Investors [Member] CEG CEG [Member] CEG [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement of Stockholders' Equity Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance, Total Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Excluding Net Income Related to Drop Down Asset Acquisitions Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Excluding Net Income Related to Drop Down Asset Acquisitions Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired Drop Down Assets Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives, net of tax Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Payment for Drop Down Assets Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Drop Down Assets contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Distributions and returns of capital to CEG, NRG, net of contributions, cash Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders, Cash Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders, Cash Contributions from CEG, NRG, net of distributions, non-cash Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders, Non-cash Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders, Non-cash Contributions from tax equity interests, net of distributions, cash Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Sale of Parent Equity Interest Stock-based compensation APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition Proceeds from the issuance of Class C Common Stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Non-cash adjustment for change in tax basis Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Common stock dividends Dividends, Common Stock Ending balance, Total Stockholders' Equity Customers accounting for more than 10% of revenue Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Segment reporting information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Energy revenue Energy Revenue [Member] Energy Revenue [Member] Capacity revenue Capacity Revenue [Member] Capacity Revenue [Member] Operating Revenues Operating Revenues [Member] Operating Revenues [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Lease revenue Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] ATM Program ATM Program [Member] ATM Program [Member] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] Clearway Energy LLC Clearway Energy LLC [Member] Clearway Energy LLC [Member] Clearway Energy, Inc. Clearway Energy, Inc. [Member] Clearway Energy, Inc. [Member] Shares of common stock sold Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Proceeds from issuance or sale of equity Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Company ownership, percentage Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Aggregate sales price ATM Program, Maximum Dollar Value of Shares to Be Issued ATM Program, Maximum Dollar Value of Shares to Be Issued Gross proceeds from sale of class C common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock, Before Commission Fees Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock, Before Commission Fees Commissions incurred Investment Banking, Advisory, Brokerage, and Underwriting Fees and Commissions Class C common stock remaining available for issuance ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining Dividends per common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Quarterly dividend, date declared Dividends Payable, Date Declared Class C common stock payable per share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Dividends payable, date to be paid Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Stockholders, date of record Dividends Payable, Date of Record Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Distributions paid to NRG Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Distributions Paid, Per Unit Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrestricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Accounts Receivable [Policy Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Impairments Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentrations of Credit Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligation [Policy Text Block] Guarantees Guarantees, Indemnifications and Warranties Policies [Policy Text Block] Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block] Sale-Leaseback Arrangements Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Developments New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Dividends Dividends [Policy Text Block] Dividends [Text Block] Lease, Cost Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Maturities of Operating Lease Liabilities Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Future Minimum Lease Commitments Under Operating Leases Lessee, Operating Lease, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Energy and Capacity Revenue Lessor Revenue [Table Text Block] Lessor Revenue [Table Text Block] Minimum Future Rent Payments Under the Operating Leases Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Maturity [Table Text Block] Property, Plant, and Equipment Net Lessor, Operating Leases, Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Lessor, Operating Leases, Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investments in consolidated affiliates Investment in Consolidated Subsidiaries Investment in Consolidated Subsidiaries Cash received from notes receivable - affiliate Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivable, Related Parties Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Payments for long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Proceeds from the issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Cash received from Clearway Energy LLC for the payment of dividends Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Common stock dividends Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at End of Period Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Cover page. Document Annual Report Document Annual Report Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Entity File Number Entity File Number Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name City Area Code City Area Code Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] 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benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Deferred state rate change due to deconsolidation from NRG Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Tax Cuts and Jobs Act - tax rate change Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Impact of non-taxable equity earnings Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Investment Basis Adjustment, Amount Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Investment Basis Adjustment, Amount Investment tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Investment, Amount Production tax credits, including prior year true-up Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Qualified Production Activity, Amount Valuation allowance adjustment Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Valuation Allowance Adjustment, Amount Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Valuation Allowance Adjustment, Amount Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax 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Net debt issuance costs Contingent liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Fair value of financial instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Equity method investments Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of variable interest entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Amount Charged to costs and expenses SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Cost and Expense Charged to other accounts SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Other Account Balance at end of period Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and funds deposited to cash flow Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash and Funds Deposited to Cash Flow [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash and Funds Deposited to Cash Flow Disaggregation of revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Contract balances Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule of asset retirement obligations Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Asset impairments Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block] Interest rate contracts current Interest Rate Contract Current [Member] The current portion of a derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to the right to receive or pay a sum of money at a given interest rate. Interest rate contracts long-term Interest Rate Contract Non Current [Member] The noncurrent portion of a derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to the right to receive or pay a sum of money at a given interest rate. Commodity contracts long-term Commodity Contract Long-Term [Member] Commodity Contract Long-Term [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges: Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives Not Designated as Cash Flow Hedges: Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative liabilities Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] NRG NRG [Member] NRG [Member] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Power procurement arrangements Utilities Operating Expense, Purchased Power under Long-term Contracts Incurred expenses for transactions with related party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Purchase obligation, due in 2020 Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months Purchase obligation, due in 2021 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years Purchase obligation, due in 2022 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years Purchase obligation, due in 2023 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Purchase obligation, due in 2024 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Purchase obligation, thereafter Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Total Purchase Obligation Kawailoa Partnership Kawailoa Solar Partnership LLC [Member] Kawailoa Solar Partnership LLC [Member] Repowering Partnership II LLC Repowering Partnership II LLC [Member] Repowering Partnership II LLC [Member] Alta TE Holdco Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Spring Canyon Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Buckthorn Renewables, LLC Buckthorn Solar Drop Down Asset [Member] Buckthorn Solar Drop Down Asset [Member] Other Other Consolidated Variable Interest Entities [Member] Other Consolidated Variable Interest Entities [Member] Other current and non-current assets Other Assets Property, plant and equipment Intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Total Assets Total liabilities Liabilities Noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity Net assets less noncontrolling interests Net Assets 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 Support 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Class Name [Domain] Supply Commitment Arrangement Supply Commitment Arrangement [Domain] Leasehold Rights Leasehold Rights [Member] Leasehold Rights [Member] Customer Relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Contracts Customer Contracts [Member] Emission Allowances Emission Allowances [Member] Emission Allowances [Member] Other Intangible Assets Other Intangible Assets [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Net carrying amount beginning balance Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Acquisition of Carlsbad Energy Center Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Net carrying amount ending balance Less accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Ending balance Affiliated Entity Affiliated Entity [Member] ITC Bridge Loan ITC Bridge Loan [Member] ITC Bridge Loan [Member] Term Debt Term Debt [Member] Term Debt [Member] Construction Loan Construction Loan [Member] Construction Loan [Member] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Third Party Investor Third Party Investor [Member] Third Party Investor [Member] Wind Global LLC Wind Global LLC [Member] Wind Global LLC [Member] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV 1 Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV 1 [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV 1 [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Capital Units by Class [Axis] Capital Units by Class [Axis] Capital Unit, Class [Domain] Capital Unit, Class [Domain] Capital Unit, Class A Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Capital Unit, Class B Capital Unit, Class B [Member] Wind Farms Wind Farms [Member] Wind farm generation capacity. Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] [Domain] for Period [Axis] Second Year through Flip Point Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point Post-Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Has Not Occured Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Has Not Occured [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Hasn't Occured [Member] Pre-Flip Point Pre-Flip Point [Member] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Clearway Renew LLC Clearway Renew LLC [Member] Clearway Renew LLC [Member] Kawailoa Solar Project Kawailoa Solar Project [Member] Kawailoa Solar Project [Member] Elbow TE Holdco Elbow TE Holdco [Member] Elbow TE Holdco [Member] Wind TE Holdco Wind TE Holdco [Member] Wind TE Holdco [Member] CWSP Wildorado Elbow Holding LLC CWSP Wildorado Elbow Holding LLC [Member] CWSP Wildorado Elbow Holding LLC [Member] Buckthorn Solar Drop Down Asset Alta X and XI TE Holdco Wildorado Holdco LLC Wildorado Holdco LLC [Member] Wildorado Holdco LLC [Member] Buckthorn Renewables, LLC Buckthorn Renewables, LLC [Member] Buckthorn Renewables, LLC [Member] Buckthorn Solar Portfolio, LLC Buckthorn Solar Portfolio, LLC [Member] Buckthorn Solar Portfolio, LLC [Member] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Financial Institutions Financial Institutions [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the financial institutions. Kawailoa Partnership Kawailoa Partnership [Member] Kawailoa Partnership [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] Spring Canyon II Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon III Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Zephyr Oahu Partnership LLC Zephyr Oahu Partnership LLC [Member] Zephyr Oahu Partnership LLC [Member] Buckthorn Holdings, LLC Buckthorn Holdings, LLC [Member] Buckthorn Holdings, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] DGPV Holdco 1 LLC DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] DGPV Holdco 2 LLC NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [Member] DGPV Holdco 3 LLC DGPV Holdco 3 [Member] DGPV Holdco 3 [Member] RPV Holdco 1 LLC RPV Holdco [Member] RPV Holdco [Member] Avenal Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC [Member] Kawailoa Solar Holdings LLC [Member] Oahu Solar, Lanikuhana Oahu Solar, Lanikuhana [Member] Oahu Solar, Lanikuhana [Member] Oahu Solar, Waipio Oahu Solar, Waipio [Member] Oahu Solar, Waipio [Member] Repowering Partnership LLC Repowering Partnership LLC [Member] Repowering Partnership LLC [Member] Equity method investment, ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Depreciation Retained earnings, undistributed earnings from equity method investees Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Payments to acquire equity method investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Repayments of debt Proceeds from debt Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Business acquisition, consideration transferred, working capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Non-recourse debt Non-Recourse Debt Pro-rate share of debt held by unconsolidated affiliates Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Payments to acquire businesses, gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Power generation gapacity, megawatts Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts Power purchase agreement period Power Purchase Agreement Period Represents the period of power purchase agreement Ownership interest Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Capital contribution, percent Business Combination, Capital Contribution, Percent Business Combination, Capital Contribution, Percent Non-controlling interest Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Outstanding debt at time of acquisition Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Percentage of cash available for distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Debt instrument, face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Net contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Taxable income allocation, pre-flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Ownership interest acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Membership interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Long-term debt Income allocation percentage Income Allocation Percentage Income Allocation Percentage Cash considerations Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Taxable income allocation, post-flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by noncontrolling owners Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Percentage of ownership Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Remaining lease term Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Due to related parties Due to Related Parties Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows 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] Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Amortization of financing costs and debt discounts Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Amortization of intangibles and out-of-market contracts Amortization of Intangibles and Out of Market Contracts The aggregate (income) expense recorded in earnings to allocate the cost of out-of-market contracts and intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash (income) expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by (used in) operations using the indirect method. Loss on debt extinguishment Right-of-use asset amortization Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Change in deferred income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Changes in derivative instruments Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities Loss on disposal of asset components Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Changes in prepaid and accrued capacity payments Changes in Prepaid and Accrued Capacity Payments Changes in Prepaid and Accrued Capacity Payments Changes in other working capital Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Acquisition of assets Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Partnership interest acquisition Payments to Acquire Limited Partnership Interests Acquisition of Drop Down Assets, net of cash acquired Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Buyout of Wind TE Holdco non-controlling interest Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Cash receipts from notes receivable Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivables Return of investment from unconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Investments in unconsolidated affiliates Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Proceeds from sale of HSD Solar Holdings, LLC assets Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net distributions and return of capital to NRG prior to the acquisition of Drop Down Assets Payments of Capital Distribution Payments of dividends and distributions Payments of Ordinary Dividends Proceeds from the revolving credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Payments for the revolving credit facility Repayments of Lines of Credit Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payments of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at Beginning of Period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at End of Period Interest paid, net of amount capitalized Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities (Reductions) Additions to fixed assets for accrued capital expenditures Additions (reductions) to fixed assets for accrued capital expenditures Additions (reductions) to fixed assets for accrued capital expenditures Non-cash contributions from CEG, NRG, net of distributions Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital distributions, non-cash Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital distributions, non-cash Nature of business Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Derivative assets (liabilities), at fair value Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input 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Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Interest expense disallowance carryforward - Investment in Projects Deferred Tax Assets, Interest Expense Disallowed Carryforward - investments in Projects Deferred Tax Assets, Interest Expense Disallowed Carryforward - investments in Projects Production tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments Investment tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Other U.S. Federal net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic Capital loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards State net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Net deferred noncurrent tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net Net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Excluding Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Excluding Valuation Allowance Unrecognized tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Operating Costs and Expenses Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Other Income (Expense) Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Other income, net Loss on debt extinguishment Interest expense Total other expense, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Net (Loss) Income Excluding Pre-acquisition Net Income (Loss) of Drop Down Assets Net Income excluding pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Net Income excluding pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Less: Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests Earnings Per Share Attributable to Clearway Energy, Inc. Class A and Class C Common Stockholders Weighted average number of common shares outstanding — basic and diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted (Loss) Earnings per weighted average common share — basic and diluted (in dollars per share) Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Unrealized gain/loss on derivatives, income tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification, Tax Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of dividends paid Schedule of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of all or some of the information related to dividends paid Schedule of distributions paid Schedule of Distributions Paid [Table Text Block] Schedule of Distributions Paid [Table Text Block] Accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Accounts receivable — trade Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Accounts receivable — affiliates Due from Affiliate, Current Inventory Inventory, Net Prepayments and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Property, plant and equipment, net Property, plant and equipment, net Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Intangible assets, net Derivative instruments Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation, Current Accounts payable — trade Accounts Payable, Current Accounts payable — affiliate Due to Affiliate, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Current Accrued interest expense Interest Payable Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Other Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total non-current liabilities Total Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' Equity Class A, Class B, Class C and Class D common stock, $0.01 par value; 3,000,000,000 shares authorized (Class A 500,000,000, Class B 500,000,000, Class C 1,000,000,000, Class D 1,000,000,000); 198,819,999 shares issued and outstanding (Class A 34,599,645, Class B 42,738,750, Class C 78,742,854, Class D 42,738,750) at December 31, 2019 and 193,251,396 shares issued and outstanding (Class A 34,586,250, Class B 42,738,750, Class C 73,187,646, Class D 42,738,750) at December 31, 2018 Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total Stockholders' Equity Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Reclassified from accumulated OCL to income due to realization of previously deferred amounts Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Mark-to-market of cash flow hedge accounting contracts Losses expected to be realized from OCL during the next 12 months, net of income tax benefit of $3 Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] GIP GIP [Member] GIP [Member] Weighted average remaining PPA term Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Sale of stock, number of shares issued in transaction Limited liability company or limited partnership, members or limited partners, ownership interest Cash Distributions Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Long-term debt, including current portion Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation, Including Current Maturities Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Conventional Generation Other revenues Products And Services, Other [Member] Products And Services, Other [Member] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Lease Agreements Lease Agreements [Member] Purpose [Axis] Purpose [Axis] Purpose [Axis] Operating Funds Operating Funds [Member] Operating Funds [Member] Long-Term Debt, Current Long Term Debt Current [Member] Long Term Debt Current [Member] Debt Service Obligations Debt Service Obligations [Member] Debt Service Obligations [Member] Cash Distribution Cash Distribution [Member] Subsidiaries Affected By Bankruptcy Subsidiaries Affected By Bankruptcy [Member] Subsidiaries Affected By Bankruptcy [Member] Project Level Subsidiaries Project Level Subsidiaries [Member] Project Level Subsidiaries [Member] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Cash and cash equivalents held at project subsidiaries Other Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the statements of cash flows Contingent rental income Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue Intercompany revenue Revenue from Related Parties Less: Lease revenue Contract amortization Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Mark-to-market for economic hedges Revenue, Mark-to-market Hedging Activities Revenue, Mark-to-market Hedging Activities Disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Revisions in estimates for current obligations/Additions Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Accretion — expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Asset Retirement Obligation General and administrative Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense Income Taxes, Threshold Percentage Income Taxes, Threshold Percentage The percentage that is likely to be realized upon settlement which is used as a basis of recording unrecognized tax benefits for income tax positions that have surpassed the more-likely-than-not threshold. Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Natural Gas Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Natural Gas Natural Gas [Member] Power Power [Member] Details pertaining to the power, which is considered as a derivative commodity. Interest Interest [Member] Details pertaining to interest rate swaps which are considered a derivative commodity. Notional amount, energy measure Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Energy Measure Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Domain] Maturity Date [Domain] [Domain] for Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity - February 25, 2025 Maturity - February 25, 2025 [Member] Maturity - February 25, 2025 [Member] Maturity - October 31, 2038 Maturity - October 31, 2038 [Member] Maturity - October 31, 2038 [Member] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Loans Payable Loans Payable [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2019 Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2019 [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2019 [Member] Working Capital Loan Facility Working Capital Loan Facility [Member] Working Capital Loan Facility [Member] South Trent Wind LLC Due 2020 South Trent Wind LLC Due 2020 [Member] South Trent Wind LLC Due 2020 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Debt covenant leverage ratio Debt Covenant Leverage Ratio Debt Covenant Leverage Ratio Increase in leverage ratio Line Of Credit, Covenant, Increase In Leverage Ratio Line Of Credit, Covenant, Increase In Leverage Ratio Long-term line of credit Long-term Line of Credit Outstanding borrowings Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Due to affiliate, noncurrent Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent Debt instrument, repurchased face amount Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount Percent of face value Percent of face value Percent of face value Debt instrument, redemption price, percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Debt instrument, repurchase amount Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount Loss on extinguishment of deferred financing fees Gain (Loss) On Extinguishment Of Deferred Financing Fees Gain (Loss) On Extinguishment Of Deferred Financing Fees Borrowings from revolving credit facility Conversion price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Conversion ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Value of equity component Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Aggregate principal amount repurchased Total market value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Common stock closing price Common Stock Closing Price Common Stock Closing Price Conversion value of convertible debt Conversion Value of Convertible Debt Conversion Value of Convertible Debt Combined basis on effective rates Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Debt instrument, convertible, remaining discount amortization period Debt Instrument, Convertible, Remaining Discount Amortization Period Bridge credit agreement, borrowing amount Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Outstanding notional amount Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Percent of Required Need, Coverage Repayments of related party debt Repayments of Related Party Debt Derivative, basis spread on variable rate Derivative, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Interest expense Interest Expense, Debt Debt discount amortization Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Debt issuance costs amortization Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Interest expense at effective rate Interest Expense at Effective Rate Interest Expense at Effective Rate Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Table] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Table] Shareholders Shareholders [Member] Shareholders [Member] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Line Items] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Line Items] Limited liability company (LLC) or limited partnership (LP), members or limited partners, voting interest Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Voting Interest Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Voting Interest Ownership interest sold Ownership Interest Sold Ownership Interest Sold Equity method investments Transaction services agreement expense Transaction Services Agreement Expense TransactionServicesAgreementExpense UPMC Thermal UPMC Thermal [Member] UPMC Thermal [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] March 2017 Drop Down Assets March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] Energy Center Dover Energy Center Dover [Member] Energy Center Dover [Member] Central CA Fuel Cell 1 Central CA Fuel Cell 1 [Member] Central CA Fuel Cell 1 [Member] Duquesne University District Energy System Duquesne University District Energy System [Member] Duquesne University District Energy System [Member] HSD Solar Holdings, LLC HSD Solar Holdings, LLC [Member] HSD Solar Holdings, LLC [Member] Percentage of net assets recorded as noncontrolling interest Business Acquisition, Percentage of Assets Recorded as Noncontrolling Interest Business Acquisition, Percentage of Assets Recorded as Noncontrolling Interest UPMC thermal project cash considerations Restricted cash and future capital expenditures Restricted Cash And Future Capital Expenditures Restricted Cash And Future Capital Expenditures Restricted cash Restricted Cash Future Capital Expenditures Future Capital Expenditures Future Capital Expenditures Accounts payable, related parties Accounts Payable, Related Parties Proceeds from noncontrolling interests Contingent consideration Net assets acquired Ownership percentage Percentage of NRG's ownership Percentage of NRG's Ownership Percentage of NRG's Ownership Remaining power purchase agreement term Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Historical value Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Sale of assets, percentage of ownership interest sold Sale Of Assets Percentage Ownership Interest Sold Sale Of Assets Percentage Ownership Interest Sold Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Numerator: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Denominator: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract] Weighted average number of common shares outstanding — basic and diluted (in shares) Basic and diluted loss per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Diluted earnings per share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS SEC Schedule, 12-09, Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Energy Related Derivative Energy Related Derivative [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Interest Expense Interest Expense [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives, net of tax Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Derivative, loss on derivative Derivative, Loss on Derivative Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Weighted Average [Member] Weighted Average [Member] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Derivative asset Derivative liability Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Management Service, Base Management Service, Base [Member] NRG Yield NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield [Member] PML PML [Member] PML [Member] RENOM RENOM [Member] RENOM [Member] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Administrative Services Agreements Administrative Services Agreement [Member] Administrative Services Agreement [Member] Operations and Maintenance services Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Related Party Transaction Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Due to related party Due to Affiliate Total Emissions Credit Purchases Total Emissions Credit Purchases Total Emissions Credit Purchases Steam Energy Steam Energy Steam Energy Chilled Water Capacity Chilled Water Capacity Chilled Water Capacity Related party transaction term Related Party Transaction Term Related Party Transaction Term Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Operating Expenses Operating Expenses Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries Equity in Earnings of Consolidated Subsidiaries This item represents the proportionate share of the parent in the earnings of the consolidated subsidiaries. Interest expense Net (Loss) Income Attributable to Clearway Energy, Inc. Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Notes receivable — current Financing Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Investment in consolidated subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Note receivable - Clearway Energy Operating LLC Notes Receivable, Related Parties Deferred income taxes Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Other non-current liabilities Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued Accumulated OCL ending balance, net of income tax benefit of $6, $7 and $9, respectively Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Change in Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Tax Amount Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Change in Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Tax Amount Losses expected to be realized from OCL during the next 12 months, net of income tax benefit of $3 Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months, Tax The estimated tax impact of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges, at the reporting date, which are expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months. Paid Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Received Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Series E,F,G,H interest rates Schedule of Effective Interest Rate [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Interest Rate [Table Text Block] Summary of swaps related to the Company's project level debt Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of annual payments based on the maturities of NRG Yield's debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]