CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [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] 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 Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] 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] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] 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] Support services [Member] Support services [Member] Support services [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [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 Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to GenConn Energy LLC. CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Plan [Member] Scenario, Plan [Member] Related Party Transaction Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Management Services Fee, Annual Service Management Costs Management Services Fee, Increase Service Management Costs, Fee Increase Service Management Costs, Fee Increase General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate Accounts payable — affiliate Due to Affiliate, Current Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Revenues Revenue from Related Parties Repayments of Related Party Debt Repayments of Related Party Debt Cost of Natural Gas Purchases Cost of Natural Gas Purchases Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Accounting Policies [Abstract] 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] 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] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] 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] Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] 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 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] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] 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] 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] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [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] 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] West Holdings Credit Agreement [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] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [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 LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [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] 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. Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] 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] High Desert Facility [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings LLC [Member] WCEP Holdings LLC [Member] WCEP Holdings LLC [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] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [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] 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] 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] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [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] 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 Long-term debt — affiliate Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs 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 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current 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 Business Combinations [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross 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 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] Net contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Intercompany transactions between Yield LLC and subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Decrease in notes receivable Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivables Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions, Return of Capital Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions, Return of Capital Investments in unconsolidated affiliates Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Distributions to NRG for NRG Wind TE Holdco Payments of Capital Distribution Proceeds from the issuance of Class C and Class A 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. Payment of distributions Payments of Dividends Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — external Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Lines of Credit Proceeds from (Repayments of) Lines of Credit Net payments of long-term debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Net Cash (Used in) 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 Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — affiliate Proceeds from Related Party Debt Payments of Financing Costs Payments of Financing Costs Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] 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 Assets, Current Net property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Investment in consolidated subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Equity investments in affiliates Equity Method Investments Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Other Assets Total Assets Assets Accounts payable — trade Accounts Payable, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Other Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt — external Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Contributed capital Members' Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Members' Equity Members' Equity Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] [Domain] for Period [Axis] 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] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [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. Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] 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] 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 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 Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Acquisition 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, 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 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] 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, 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 Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [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] 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] Supply Commitment [Member] Supply Commitment [Member] UB Fuel Cell [Member] UB Fuel Cell [Member] UB Fuel Cell [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [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. Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Wind Farms [Member] Wind Farms [Member] Wind farm generation capacity. Thermal [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [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] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Number of Facilities Number of Facilities Number of Facilities Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments 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. Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Derivative Asset Derivative Asset Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Noncontrolling interest Members' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement Statement [Line Items] Derivative instruments — affiliate Derivative Asset, Current ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Total current assets Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Less accumulated depreciation Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $832 and $701 Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $132 and $93 Total other assets Total Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Total current liabilities Total non-current liabilities Total Liabilities Members' Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Total Members' Equity Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] Represents the GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC which wholly-owns GenConn Energy LLC. Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Summarized financial information of equity method investment Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] 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] Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Corporate Corporate Segment [Member] Renewables Renewables [Member] Renewables [Member] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating revenues Revenues Cost of operations Operating Expenses Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest expense Interest Expense Net Income Nature of Business Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- 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] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax Assets, Noncurrent Assets, Noncurrent 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 Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] 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] Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Amortization of financing costs and debt discounts Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Amortization of Intangibles and Out of Market Contracts Amortization of Intangibles and Out of Market Contracts The aggregate (income) expense recorded in earnings to allocate the cost of out-of-market contracts and intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash (income) expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by (used in) operations using the indirect method. Changes in derivative instruments Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities Disposal of asset components and ARO accretion Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Changes in prepaid and accrued capacity payments Changes in Prepaid and Accrued Capacity Payments Changes in Prepaid and Accrued Capacity Payments Changes in other working capital Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control (Increase) decrease in restricted cash Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Payment of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities Net Decrease in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method and Variable Interest Entities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] 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] NRG Yield LLC NRG GenConn Middletown GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] Marsh Landing 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] Roadrunner 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] 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] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [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] Distributed Solar Distributed Solar [Member] Distributed solar generation capacity. Utility-Scale Solar 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 Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction 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 (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 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 Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value 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, 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 Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments [Member] Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments [Member] 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 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 Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] 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. 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. 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, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash 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 [Abstract] Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Revenue Depreciation and amortization Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Equity in earnings 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. Other income, net Interest expense Total other income (expense), net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Capital Contributions From Partners in Equity Method Investment Capital Contributions From Partners in Equity Method Investment Capital Contributions From Partners in Equity Method Investment Pre-Flip Point [Member] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs Total operating costs and expenses Operating Income Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Interest expense Total other expense, net Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives Other comprehensive (loss) income Comprehensive Income CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Successor [Member] Successor [Member] 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] 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 Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting 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] Recent Accounting Developments New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] 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 Dividends Per Class A Common Share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Operating Income (Loss) Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Estimated carrying values and fair values of the Company's recorded financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Distributions to NRG for NRG Wind TE Holdco CP Income Statement [Abstract] CP Income Statement [Abstract] 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] 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] 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] Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Power Generation Units, Number Power Generation Units, Number The number of power generation units as of the balance sheet date.