Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [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 [Table] Statement [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivables Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivables Proceeds from Renewable Energy Grants Proceeds from Renewable Energy Grants The amount of cash received during the period for renewable energy grants related to capital projects. Net investments in unconsolidated affiliates Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Proceeds from Payments to Intercompany Loans Proceeds from Payments to Intercompany Loans The cash inflow or outflow associated with intercompany loans for related parties. Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Proceeds from the issuance of Class C and Class A units Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Payments of Capital Distribution Payments of Capital Distribution Payments of Dividends Payments of Dividends Cash Distribution paid to Parent Company Cash Distribution paid to Parent Company Cash Distribution paid to Parent Company Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of Related Party Debt Repayments of Related Party Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Payments of Financing Costs Payments of Financing Costs Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Non-cash [Member] Non-cash [Member] Non-cash [Member] Interest Paid, Net Interest Paid, Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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] Distributions in excess of equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of financing costs and debt discount/premiums Amortization of Financing 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. Adjustment for debt extinguishment Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Changes in derivative instruments Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities 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 businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Capital expenditures (Increase) decrease in restricted cash Decrease in notes receivable Payments for (Proceeds from) Loans Receivable Payments for (Proceeds from) Loans Receivable Proceeds from Renewable Energy Grants Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Capital contributions from NRG Distributions and return of capital to NRG Payment of distributions Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — external Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — affiliate Proceeds from Related Party Debt Payment of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payments for long-term debt — external Proceeds from (Repayments of) Related Party Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Related Party Debt Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period Additions (reductions) 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 Decrease in Fixed Assets, Accrued Grants Decrease in Fixed Assets, Accrued Grants The decrease in fixed assets for accrued grants and related tax impact. Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Decrease in Fixed Assets, Deferred Tax Asset Decrease in Fixed Assets, Deferred Tax Asset The decrease in fixed assets for deferred tax assets Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital contributions Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital contributions Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital contributions Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [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. Wind Farms [Member] Wind Farms [Member] Wind farm generation capacity. Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] [Domain] for Period [Axis] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Has Not Occured [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Has Not Occured [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Hasn't Occured [Member] 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. NRG [Member] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Revenues Revenues Total current assets Assets, Current Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses 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 Business Combination, Assets Acquired, 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, Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Assets Other Assets Other 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, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income(Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income(Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income(Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Number of Facilities Number of Facilities Number of Facilities 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. Net property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Assets, Noncurrent Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets Assets Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Other current and non-current liabilities Other Liabilities Liabilities Liabilities Net Assets Net Assets Operating Income (Loss) Operating Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Commodity Contract [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] 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, Net Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability 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. Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Public Shareholders [Member] Public Shareholders [Member] Public Shareholders [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Leasehold Rights [Member] Leasehold Rights [Member] Leasehold Rights [Member] Supply Commitment Arrangement [Domain] Supply Commitment Arrangement [Domain] Alta Wind Portfolio [Member] Alta Wind Portfolio [Member] Alta Wind Portfolio [Member] Alta Wind Holdings [Member] Alta Wind Holdings [Member] Alta Wind Holdings [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Class A [Member] Common Class A [Member] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Cash Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Cash Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Cash Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Share Price Share Price Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Adjusted Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Total Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Total Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Total Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Noncurrent Liabilities Longterm Debt Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Noncurrent Liabilities Longterm Debt Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Noncurrent Liabilities Longterm Debt Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Adjusted Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Current and Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Current and Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Current and Noncurrent Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current and Non-current Liabilities, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current and Non-current Liabilities, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current and Non-current Liabilities, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Assets Acquired Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Assets Acquired Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Assets Acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Adjusted Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Condensed Financial Information [Abstract] Condensed Financial Information [Abstract] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax 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 Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain] Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months Utilities Operating Expense, Purchased Power under Long-term Contracts Utilities Operating Expense, Purchased Power under Long-term Contracts Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Purchase Obligation Purchase Obligation Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Operating Leases, Rent Expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] GCE Holding LLC [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] Represents the GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC which wholly-owns GenConn Energy LLC. Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] 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] 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. Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] 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. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount 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 Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset 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 Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Net Amount Derivative Asset Derivative Liability, Net Amount Derivative Liability 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 Income Statement [Abstract] Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] Operating Leases [Abstract] Operating Leases [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Domain] Maturity Date [Domain] [Domain] for Maturity Date [Axis] January 31, 2031 [Member] January 31, 2031 [Member] January 31, 2031 [Member] May 15, 2031 [Member] May 15, 2031 [Member] May 15, 2031 [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Debt Instrument Period [Axis] Debt Instrument Period [Axis] Debt Instrument Period [Axis] Debt Instrument Period [Domain] Debt Instrument Period [Domain] [Domain] for Debt Instrument Period [Axis] September 22, 2010 to March 18, 2015 [Member] September 22, 2010 to March 18, 2015 [Member] September 22, 2010 to March 18, 2015 [Member] March 18, 2015 to March 17, 2022 [Member] March 18, 2015 to March 17, 2022 [Member] March 18, 2015 to March 17, 2022 [Member] March 18, 2022 to March 17, 2027 [Member] March 18, 2022 to March 17, 2027 [Member] March 18, 2022 to March 17, 2027 [Member] March 18, 2027 through Maturity [Member] March 18, 2027 through Maturity [Member] March 18, 2027 through Maturity [Member] September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2020 [Member] September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2020 [Member] September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2020 [Member] September 1, 2020 through maturity [Member] September 1, 2020 through maturity [Member] September 1, 2020 through maturity [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Alta Wind I - V Lease financing arrangement [Member] Alta Wind I - V Lease financing arrangement [Member] Alta Wind I - V Lease financing arrangement [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta XI [Member] Alta XI [Member] Alta XI [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Fixed Rate Notes [Member] Fixed Rate Notes [Member] Fixed Rate Notes [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Term Loan Facility [Member] Term Loan Facility [Member] Term Loan Facility [Member] Working Capital Facility [Member] Working Capital Facility [Member] Working Capital Facility [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche B [Member] West Holdings PPA [Member] West Holdings PPA [Member] West Holdings PPA [Member] West Holding Collateral Agent [Member] West Holding Collateral Agent [Member] West Holding Collateral Agent [Member] West Holdings Working Capital Facility [Member] West Holdings Working Capital Facility [Member] West Holdings Working Capital Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Alta Realty Investments, due 2031 [Member] Alta Realty Investments, due 2031 [Member] Alta Realty Investments, due 2031 [Member] Alta Wind Asset Management, due 2031 [Member] Alta Wind Asset Management, due 2031 [Member] Alta Wind Asset Management, due 2031 [Member] Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X, due 2020 [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche A [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] Alta Wind X and Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X and Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X and Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [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] West Holdings Credit Agreement [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement [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] Letters of Credit, Issued Amount Letters of Credit, Issued Amount The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit issued as of the reporting date. Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount 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 Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Loss on debt extinguishment Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Equity Method Investments Undistributed Earnings from Equity Investments [Abstract] Equity Method Investments Undistributed Earnings from Equity Investments [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] 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] Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price [Table Text Block] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Industry Sector [Axis] Industry Sector [Axis] Industry Sector [Domain] Industry Sector [Domain] Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Domain] Operating Activities [Domain] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Report Date [Axis] Report Date [Axis] Financial Statement Filing Date [Domain] Financial Statement Filing Date [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Currency [Axis] Currency [Axis] All Currencies [Domain] All Currencies [Domain] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Domain] Name of Property [Domain] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] 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 Equity Method Investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Operating Income (Loss) Total current assets Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Equity investments in affiliates Equity Method Investments El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] June 2014 Drop Down Assets [Member] June 2014 Drop Down Assets [Member] June 2014 Drop Down Assets [Member] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Business Acquisitions, Consideration Transferred, Purchase Price Business Acquisitions, Consideration Transferred, Purchase Price Business Acquisitions, Consideration Transferred, Purchase Price Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Transfer of funds under intercompany cash management arrangement Repayments of Related Party Debt Payment of debt issuance costs Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Energy [Axis] Energy [Axis] Energy [Domain] Energy [Domain] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block] Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Consolidated Entities [Member] Consolidated Entities [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Members' Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block] Schedule of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of all or some of the information related to dividends paid Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] Represents NRG Solar Blythe LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Alta Wind XI [Member] Alta Wind XI [Member] Alta Wind XI [Member] Emission Allowances [Member] Emission Allowances [Member] An asset acquired in a business combination representing an entity's emission allowances. Developed Technology Rights [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Customer Contracts [Member] Customer Contracts [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Out of Market Contracts [Member] Out of Market Contracts [Member] Out of Market Contracts [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Contra Revenue Intangibles Amortization Contra Revenue Intangibles Amortization Intangibles Amortization recorded to contra-revenue account Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Other Changes Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Other Changes This element represents other additions or reductions to finite-lived intangible assets during the period. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Out of Market Contracts Out of Market Contracts Represents out-of-market contracts, which relate to customer contracts, energy supply contracts, power contracts, gas swaps, and certain coal contracts, where the contracted commodity price was less than the market price for revenue contracts and greater than market for cost contracts as of the acquisition date for contracts acquired in a business combination or the date of emergence from bankruptcy. The customer contracts, gas swaps and power contracts are amortized to revenues while the energy supply contracts and coal contracts are amortized to cost of operations over the term of the contracts. Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Accumulated Amortization of Out of Market Contracts Accumulated Amortization of Out of Market Contracts Accumulated Amortization of Out of Market Contracts Amortization Amortization Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method and Variable Interest Entities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Table] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Table] Common Class C [Member] Common Class C [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] 2015 Drop Down Asssets [Member] 2015 Drop Down Asssets [Member] 2015 Drop Down Asssets [Member] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Line Items] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Line Items] Dividends Payable, Date Declared Dividends Payable, Date Declared Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Distributions Paid, Per Unit Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Distributions Paid, Per Unit Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Nature of Business Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Common Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Capital Unit, Class A [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] Affiliated Entity [Member] Affiliated Entity [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 [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] Marsh Landing Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] Borrego [Member] Borrego [Member] Borrego [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] AZ DG Solar Projects AZ DG Solar Projects [Member] AZ DG Solar Projects [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] 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] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [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] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [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] Hardin [Member] Hardin [Member] Hardin [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] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Distributed Solar Distributed Solar [Member] Distributed solar generation capacity. Thermal [Member] Thermal [Member] Represents Thermal segment of the entity. Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Utility-Scale Solar Nature of Business Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] 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 Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Acquired in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Acquired in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Acquired in Transaction Proceeds from Issuance Initial Public Offering Proceeds from Issuance Initial Public Offering Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Allocation of Corporate Expenses Allocation of Corporate Expenses Allocation of Corporate Expenses 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. General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Long Term Debt - November 2015 Drop Downs [Abstract] Long Term Debt - November 2015 Drop Downs [Abstract] Viento Funding [Member] Viento Funding [Member] Viento Funding [Member] July 11, 2013 to July 11, 2017 [Member] July 11, 2013 to July 11, 2017 [Member] July 11, 2013 to July 11, 2017 [Member] July 11, 2017 to July 11, 2021 [Member] July 11, 2017 to July 11, 2021 [Member] July 11, 2017 to July 11, 2021 [Member] July 11, 2021 through Maturity [Member] July 11, 2021 through Maturity [Member] July 11, 2021 through Maturity [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] Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Energy Systems Company [Member] Energy Systems Company [Member] Energy Systems Company [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Net Income Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] Convertible Notes Payable [Member] Convertible Notes Payable [Member] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] Convertible Debt Convertible Debt Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] 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 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 Derivative instruments — affiliate Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Prepayments and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Investment in consolidated subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Current portion of long-term debt — external Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current 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 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 Total Liabilities Contributed capital Members' Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Members' Equity Members' Equity Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Support services [Member] Support services [Member] Support services [Member] NRG Power Marketing LLC [Member] NRG Power Marketing LLC [Member] NRG Power Marketing LLC [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] Thermal [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to GenConn Energy LLC. NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] Scenario, Plan [Member] Scenario, Plan [Member] Management Services Fee, Annual Service Management Costs Management Services Fee, Increase Service Management Costs, Fee Increase Service Management Costs, Fee Increase Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate Related Party Costs, Capitalized Amount Related Party Costs, Capitalized Amount Related Party Costs, Capitalized Amount Payments Payments Payments Receipt of payments Receipt of payments Receipt of payments Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Equity Investment Methods [Abstract] Equity Investment Methods [Abstract] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] High Plains II [Member] High Plains II [Member] High Plains II [Member] Power Purchase Agreement Period Power Purchase Agreement Period Represents the period of power purchase agreement Other Borrowings Other Borrowings Renewable energy grant, gross Renewable energy grant, gross Renewable energy grant, gross Renewable energy grants, net Renewable energy grants, net Renewable energy grants, net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Total Assets Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Derivative instruments — affiliate Derivative Asset, Current Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] In service Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Under construction Construction in Progress, Gross Total property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $93 and $38 Derivative instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Total current liabilities Members' Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] NRG West Holdings LLC [Member] NRG West Holdings LLC [Member] NRG West Holdings LLC [Member] South Trent Wind LLC [Member] South Trent Wind LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to South Trent Wind LLC. NRG Solar Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [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] Tapestry Wind [Member] Tapestry Wind [Member] Tapestry Wind [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 [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] Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - June 14, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 14, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 14, 2028 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2025 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2025 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2025 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2029 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement [Member] Kansas South Facility [Member] Kansas South Facility [Member] Kansas South Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche A due December 2017 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche A due December 2017 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche A due December 2017 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche B due 2023 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche B due 2023 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche B due 2023 [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Percentage of Debt Hedged by Interest Rate Derivatives Percentage of Debt Hedged by Interest Rate Derivatives Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Business Acquisition Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] UB Fuel Cell [Member] UB Fuel Cell [Member] UB Fuel Cell [Member] Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] 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] Alta Wind I, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind I, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind I, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind II, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind II, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind II, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind III, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind III, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind III, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind IV, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind IV, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind IV, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind V, lease financing arrangement, due 2035 [Member] Alta Wind V, lease financing arrangement, due 2035 [Member] Alta Wind V, lease financing arrangement, due 2035 [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. South Trent Financing Agreement [Member] South Trent Financing Agreement [Member] South Trent Financing Agreement [Member] Avra Valley Financing Agreement [Member] Avra Valley Financing Agreement [Member] Avra Valley Financing Agreement [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] Represents other debt instruments not separately accounted disclosed. Roadrunner Financing Agreement [Member] Roadrunner Financing Agreement [Member] Roundrunner Financing Agreement [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC Credit Agreement Due 2028 [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC Credit Agreement Due 2028 [Member] Represent NRG Solar Blythe LLC credit agreement, which is due 2028. PFMG Financing Agreement [Member] PFMG Financing Agreement [Member] PFMG Financing Agreement [Member] Project [Domain] Project [Domain] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2025 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2025 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2025 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2024 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2024 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2024 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2038 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2038 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2038 [Member] High Desert Facility, due 2033 [Member] High Desert Facility, due 2033 [Member] High Desert Facility, due 2033 [Member] TA - High Desert, due 2023 [Member] TA - High Desert, due 2023 [Member] TA - High Desert, due 2023 [Member] Senior Notes Senior Notes Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Equity Method Investments [Abstract] Equity Method Investments [Abstract] Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] SyndicateofBanks [Member] SyndicateofBanks [Member] SyndicateofBanks [Member] EurusEnergy [Member] EurusEnergy [Member] EurusEnergy [Member] Notes and Loans Payable Notes and Loans Payable Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Revenue 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 Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest expense Interest Expense Total other income (expense), net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets Total Members' Equity Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization General and Administrative Expense Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income Before Income Taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Intercompany transactions between Yield LLC and subsidiaries Payments of Capital Distribution Proceeds from the issuance of Class C units Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Sales [Member] Sales [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Contributed Capital [Abstract] Contributed Capital [Abstract] Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Domain] Dividends [Domain] Retained Earnings, Unappropriated [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Other Additional Capital [Member] Other Additional Capital [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Capital Components [Axis] Partner Capital Components [Axis] Partner Capital Components [Domain] Partner Capital Components [Domain] Allocation of Predecessor's equity Allocation of Predecessor's equity Allocation of Predecessor's equity Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Partners' Capital Account, Return of Capital Partners' Capital Account, Return of Capital Net Assets Acquired, Drop Down Assets Net Assets Acquired, Drop Down Assets Net Assets Acquired, Drop Down Assets Operating Revenues [Member] Operating Revenues [Member] Operating Revenues [Member] Operating Income (Loss) [Member] Operating Income (Loss) [Member] Net Income (Loss) [Member] Net Income (Loss) [Member] Net Income (Loss) [Member] Quarterly Financial Information, Quarterly Charges and Credits, Amount Reconciling to Previously Reported Results Quarterly Financial Information, Quarterly Charges and Credits, Amount Reconciling to Previously Reported Results CP Income Statement [Abstract] CP Income Statement [Abstract] Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] PG&E [Member] PG&E [Member] PG&E [Member] Corporate Corporate Segment [Member] Renewables Renewables [Member] Renewables [Member] 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 Operating revenues Cost of operations Operating Expenses Operating income (loss) 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. Guarantees, Indemnifications and Warranties Policies [Policy Text Block] Guarantees, Indemnifications and Warranties Policies [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrestricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrestricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Interest Capitalization, Policy [Policy Text Block] Interest Capitalization, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Developments New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] 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 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] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Total operating revenues Operating Income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] 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 Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent First Year [Member] First Year [Member] First Year [Member] Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount 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] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [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 GenConn Facility [Member] GenConn Facility [Member] GenConn Facility [Member] Power Generation Facilities [Axis] Power Generation Facilities [Axis] The power generation facilities included in the entity's total global generation portfolio. Power Generation Facilities [Domain] Power Generation Facilities [Domain] Power Generation Facilities [Domain] GenConn Devon [Member] 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] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity [Abstract] Variable Interest Entity [Abstract] Business Combination, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Support Equipment and Facilities [Member] Support Equipment and Facilities [Member] Land and improvements Land and Land Improvements [Member] Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, plant and equipment, useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Purpose [Axis] Purpose [Axis] Purpose [Axis] Purpose [Domain] Purpose [Domain] [Domain] for Purpose [Axis] Long-Term Debt, Current [Member] Long-Term Debt, Current [Member] Long-Term Debt, Current [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Cash Distribution [Member] Cash Distribution [Member] Reserves [Member] Reserves [Member] Reserves [Member] Project Level Subsidiaries [Member] 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] Other Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Other Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Interest Costs Capitalized Interest Costs Capitalized Noncontrolling interest Contributions from noncontrolling interest for Alta Wind X-X1 TE Holdco Noncontrolling interest acquired in Spring Canyon acquisition Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investment [Domain] Investment [Domain] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Community Solar [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Community Solar [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Community Solar [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Less: Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests IPO of NRG Yield [Abstract] IPO of NRG Yield [Abstract] 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 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] Schedule of Ownership Percentage, Net Capacity, Offtake Counterparty and Year of Offtake Expiration by Operating Asset [Table Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Cost of Natural Gas Purchases Cost of Natural Gas Purchases coal, gas purchases coal, gas purchases coal, gas purchases