CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Drop Down Assets [Member] Drop Down Assets [Member] Drop Down Assets [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Payments for the Drop Down Assets Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Intercompany transactions between Yield LLC and subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment 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 Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net distributions and return of capital to NRG prior to the acquisition of Drop Down Assets Payments of Capital Distribution Proceeds from the issuance of Class C units Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Transfer of funds under intercompany cash management arrangement Proceeds from Payments to Intercompany Loans The cash inflow or outflow associated with intercompany loans for related parties. Payments of distributions, net of contributions Payments of Dividends Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt — external Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payments of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Proceeds from the revolving credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Payments for long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net Decrease in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding 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 Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table] Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items] Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items] Net Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net Income Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) 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 Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Amortization of financing costs 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. Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Derivative interest (income) expense Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities (Gain) loss on disposal of asset components Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Changes in prepaid and accrued liabilities for tolling agreements 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 Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests Repayments of Lines of Credit Repayments of Lines of Credit Net Cash Used in Financing Activities Net Decrease in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Proceeds from issuance of Class C units Payments of (Proceeds from) distributions Payments of (Proceeds from) distributions Payments of (Proceeds from) distributions Repayments of Lines of Credit Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Document And Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- 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 [Member] Common Class A [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class C [Member] Common Class C [Member] Common Class D [Member] Common Class D [Member] Common Class D [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] 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 Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer 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 Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Buckthorn Solar Drop Down Asset [Member] Buckthorn Solar Drop Down Asset [Member] Buckthorn Solar Drop Down Asset [Member] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Domain] Restatement [Domain] Previously Reported [Member] Previously Reported [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Buckthorn Solar, due 2025 [Member] Buckthorn Solar, due 2025 [Member] Buckthorn Solar, due 2025 [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Revenues Revenues Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts The generation capacity of the entity's power generation facilities as of the balance sheet date, expressed in megawatts. Assets, Current Assets, Current Net property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Other Assets Other Assets Assets Assets Liabilities Liabilities Members' Equity Members' Equity Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Operating Income (Loss) Operating Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Successor [Member] Successor [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Reclassified from accumulated OCL to income due to realization of previously deferred amounts Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Mark-to-market of cash flow hedge accounting contracts Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Losses expected to be realized from OCL during the next 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Nature of Business Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Unconsolidated Properties [Member] Unconsolidated Solar Partnerships [Member] Unconsolidated Solar Partnerships [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] Agua Caliente [Member] Agua Caliente [Member] Agua Caliente [Member] March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Axis] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Axis] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Domain] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Domain] Southern California Edison [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield LLC NRG GenConn Middletown GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] Marsh Landing Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avra Valley Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] Represents NRG Solar Blythe LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Borrego Borrego [Member] Borrego [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Roadrunner NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] Utah Portfolio [Member] Utah Portfolio [Member] Utah Portfolio [Member] AZ DG Solar Projects AZ DG Solar Projects [Member] AZ DG Solar Projects [Member] SPP Projects [Member] SPP Projects [Member] SPP Projects [Member] Other DG Assets [Member] Other DG Assets [Member] Other DG Assets [Member] PFMG DG Solar Projects PFMG DG Solar Projects [Member] PFMG DG Solar Projects [Member] Alta I [Member] Alta I [Member] Alta I [Member] Alta II [Member] Alta II [Member] alta II [Member] Alta III [Member] Alta III [Member] Alta III Alta IV [Member] Alta IV [Member] Alta IV [Member] Alta V [Member] Alta V [Member] Alta V [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta XI [Member] Alta XI [Member] Alta XI [Member] South Trent South Trent Holding LLC [Member] South Trent Holding LLC [Member] Spanish Fork [Member] Spanish Fork [Member] Spanish Fork [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Hardin [Member] Hardin [Member] Hardin [Member] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Thermal [Member] Thermal [Member] Represents Thermal segment of the entity. NRG Energy Center Dover [Member] NRG Energy Center Dover [Member] NRG Energy Center Dover [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] 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. Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] Distributed Solar Distributed Solar [Member] Distributed solar generation capacity. Wind Farms [Member] Wind Farms [Member] Wind farm generation capacity. Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Utility-Scale Solar Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Nature of Business Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Percentage of NRG's Ownership Percentage of NRG's Ownership Percentage of NRG's Ownership Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage 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 Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership 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. Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts attributed to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts attributed to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts attributed to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest 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 Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Statement Statement [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounts receivable — trade Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable — affiliate Due from Affiliate, Current Inventory Inventory, Net Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Prepayments and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Equity investments in affiliates Equity Method Investments Intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Derivative instruments Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of long-term debt — external Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Affiliate Current Debt Affiliate Current Debt Affiliate Current Debt Accounts payable — trade Accounts Payable, Current Accounts payable — affiliate Due to Affiliate, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Other Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt — external Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term debt — affiliate Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Members' Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Contributed capital Members' Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Noncontrolling interest Members' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Members' Equity Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] 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 [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] 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 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Net Financing Receivable, Net Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Financial Institutions [Member] Financial Institutions [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the financial institutions. Equity Interest Type [Axis] Equity Interest Type [Axis] Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Type [Domain] Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Type [Domain] Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Capital Unit, Class B [Member] Capital Unit, Class B [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Business Acquisitions [Abstract] Business Acquisitions [Abstract] Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] 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] Estimated carrying values and fair values of the Company's recorded financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Fair Value Option, Disclosures [Table Text Block] Fair Value Option, Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives Other comprehensive gain (loss) Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization [Table Text Block] Schedule of Change in Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Schedule of Change in Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Schedule of Change in Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Distributions Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, by Distribution [Table Text Block] Distributions Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, by Distribution [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block] Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity Net Assets Net Assets Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] External and Affiliate Debt [Member] External and Affiliate Debt [Member] External and Affiliate Debt [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series E Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series E Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series E Notes [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2019 [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2019 [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2019 [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2020 [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2020 [Member] Intercompany Credit Agreement due 2020 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alta Wind I-V, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 and 2035 [Member] Alta Wind I-V, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 and 2035 [Member] Alta Wind I-V, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 and 2035 [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] El Segundo Energy Center, due 2023 [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche A [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes [Member] Represents senior secured notes financed by NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC, which are due 2013, 2017, and 2025. NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series D Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series D Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series D Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series E, F, G, H Notes [Member] [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series E, F, G, H Notes [Member] [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series E, F, G, H Notes [Member] [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] Represents other debt instruments not separately accounted disclosed. Project [Domain] Project [Domain] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series G Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series G Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series G Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series H Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series H Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series H Notes [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche B [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Senior Notes Senior Notes Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Current portion of long-term debt — external Deferred Finance Costs, Net Debt Issuance Costs, Net Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Total operating revenues Operating Costs and Expenses Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Revenue Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Equity in earnings (losses) of consolidated affiliates Equity in Earnings of Consolidated Subsidiaries This item represents the proportionate share of the parent in the earnings of the consolidated subsidiaries. Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest expense Interest Expense Total other income (expense), net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Less: Loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Measurement Unit [Axis] Measurement Unit [Axis] Represents information pertaining to various measurement units. Measurement Unit [Domain] Measurement Unit [Domain] Represents various measurement units used by the entity. United States of America, Dollars United States of America, Dollars MMbtu [Member] MMbtu [Member] Represents unit of measurement that is used to measure quantity of natural gas. Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Natural Gas [Member] Natural Gas [Member] Interest [Member] Interest [Member] Details pertaining to interest rate swaps which are considered a derivative commodity. Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Commodity Contract [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract Current [Member] 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 Contract Non Current [Member] 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 Contract Current [Member] Commodity Contract Current [Member] The current portion of a derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to commodity prices. Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Asset Derivative Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability 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 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 Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset 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 Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives November 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Debt Issuance Costs, Net Non-Recourse Debt Non-Recourse Debt Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net 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. Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Estimated Counterparty Credit Risk Exposure to Certain Counterparties, Period Estimated Counterparty Credit Risk Exposure to Certain Counterparties, Period Estimated Counterparty Credit Risk Exposure to Certain Counterparties, Period Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Related Party Transaction Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] 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] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Management Service, Base [Member] Management Service, Base [Member] Thermal [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] Represents the GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC which wholly-owns GenConn Energy LLC. Marsh Landing [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to GenConn Energy LLC. UPMC Thermal [Member] UPMC Thermal [Member] UPMC Thermal [Member] NRG RENOM [Member] NRG RENOM [Member] NRG Renew Operations & Maintenance LLC Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent Revenues Revenue from Related Parties Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Accounts Payable, Related Parties Accounts Payable, Related Parties Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Corporate Corporate Segment [Member] Renewables Renewables [Member] Renewables [Member] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating revenues Cost of operations Operating Expenses Depreciation and amortization Operating Income Other income, net Interest expense Income Statement [Abstract] Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Interest expense Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Cash and cash equivalents Investment in consolidated subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Intangible assets, net Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Current Liabilities Total non-current liabilities Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Central CA Fuel Cell 1 [Member] Central CA Fuel Cell 1 [Member] Central CA Fuel Cell 1 [Member] Power Purchase Agreement Period Power Purchase Agreement Period Represents the period of power purchase agreement November 2017 Drop Down Assets and August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2017 Drop Down Assets and August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2017 Drop Down Assets and August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method and Variable Interest Entities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Noncontrolling interest Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Percent of Required Need, Coverage Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Percent of Required Need, Coverage Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Lease Agreements [Member] Lease Agreements [Member] Customer Contracts [Member] Customer Contracts [Member] Energy Revenue [Member] Energy Revenue [Member] Energy Revenue [Member] Capacity Revenue [Member] Capacity Revenue [Member] Capacity Revenue [Member] Segments [Axis] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Accounts Receivable, Net Accounts Receivable, Net Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue Members' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Capital contributions from tax equity investors, net of distributions Distributions to NRG for NRG Wind TE Holdco Comprehensive loss Dividends Payable, Date Declared Dividends Payable, Date Declared Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Dividends Payable, Date of Record Dividends Payable, Date of Record Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share ATM Program, Maximum Dollar Value of Shares to Be Issued ATM Program, Maximum Dollar Value of Shares to Be Issued ATM Program, Maximum Dollar Value of Shares to Be Issued Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock, Before Commission Fees Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock, Before Commission Fees Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock, Before Commission Fees Dividends Per Class A Common Share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability NRG DGPV Holdco 3 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 3 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 3 [Member] Four Brothers Solar [Member] Four Brothers Solar [Member] Four Brothers Solar [Member] Granite Mountain Holdings [Member] Granite Mountain Holdings [Member] Granite Mountain Holdings [Member] Iron Springs Holdings [Member] Iron Springs Holdings [Member] Iron Springs Holdings [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] IPO of NRG Yield [Table Text Block] IPO of NRG Yield [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for IPO of NRG Yield [Table] Schedule of Ownership [Table Text Block] Schedule of Ownership Percentage, Net Capacity, Offtake Counterparty and Year of Offtake Expiration by Operating Asset [Table Text Block] Schedule of Ownership Percentage, Net Capacity, Offtake Counterparty and Year of Offtake Expiration by Operating Asset [Table Text Block] CP Income Statement [Abstract] CP Income Statement [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Distributions [Policy Text Block] Distributions [Policy Text Block] Distributions [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Developments New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidated Entities [Member] Consolidated Entities [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]