CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] Drop-down Acquisition [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] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] 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 Net 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 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 Net (payments for) borrowings of long-term debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Net Cash Used in 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 CP Income Statement [Abstract] CP Income Statement [Abstract] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Total operating revenues Revenues Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Revenue Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating Income (Loss) Operating Income (Loss) Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs and Expenses [Abstract] 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) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Accounting Policies [Abstract] 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] 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 Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- 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] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [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] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] 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. 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 Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate Equity investments in affiliates Equity Method Investments Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] 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] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [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] Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] 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. Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] 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] 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 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, 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 Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value 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 Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to GenConn Energy LLC. NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] Represents the GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC which wholly-owns GenConn Energy LLC. Net contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Power Generation Units, Number Power Generation Units, Number The number of power generation units as of the balance sheet date. Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Total current assets Assets, Current Assets, Noncurrent Assets, Noncurrent Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investments [Abstract] Equity Method Investments [Abstract] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Net Assets Net Assets Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Total other assets Other Assets Total Assets Assets Liabilities Liabilities Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] 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] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax Net property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Total Liabilities Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method and Variable Interest Entities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] 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 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 Loss Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Nature of Business Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- 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] 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] 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 NRG [Member] NRG [Member] GenConn Middletown GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] Marsh Landing Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avra Valley Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] Represents NRG Solar Blythe LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Borrego Borrego [Member] Borrego [Member] Roadrunner NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] RE 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] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Hardin [Member] Hardin [Member] Hardin [Member] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Distributed Solar Distributed Solar [Member] Distributed solar generation capacity. Thermal [Member] Thermal [Member] Represents Thermal segment of the entity. Utility-Scale Solar Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Nature of Business Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions 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 Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Steam and Chilled Water Capacity, Megawatts Thermal Equivalent Steam and Chilled Water Capacity, Megawatts Thermal Equivalent The generation capacity of the entity's thermal power generation facilities as of the balance sheet date, expressed in megawatts thermal equivalent. Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement Statement [Line Items] Net Income (Loss) Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized loss on derivatives Other comprehensive loss Comprehensive Loss Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 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] 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] Marsh Landing [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] 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 Long-term debt — affiliate Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent 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 Deferred Finance Costs, Net Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities 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] 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] Thermal [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [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, 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 Accounts payable — affiliate Due to Affiliate, Current 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 Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Affiliated Entity [Member] Affiliated Entity [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] 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 Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Prepayments and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Property, plant and equipment 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 Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $767 and $701 Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $111 and $93 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Total Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable — trade Accounts Payable, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Other Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt — external Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total non-current liabilities Total Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Members' Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Contributed capital Members' Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Noncontrolling interest Members' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Members' Equity Members' Equity Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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 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] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] 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 and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] 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 Income Statement [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Total operating costs and expenses Operating Income Interest expense Total other expense, net Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income (loss) 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 Amortization of financing costs and debt discounts 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. 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 Drop Down Assets, net of cash acquired Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Increase in restricted cash Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] 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 Operating Income (Loss) Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Investment in consolidated subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Intangible assets, net Total Members' Equity Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity Estimated carrying values and fair values of the Company's recorded financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Distributions to NRG for NRG Wind TE Holdco Intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Corporate Corporate Segment [Member] Renewables Renewables [Member] Renewables [Member] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating revenues Cost of operations Operating Expenses Operating income (loss) Other income, net Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] 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] 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] 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 Business Acquisitions [Abstract] Business Acquisitions [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity 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] Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] 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] Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Business Acquisition Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [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] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] 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 Capital Contributions From Partners in Equity Method Investment Capital Contributions From Partners in Equity Method Investment Capital Contributions From Partners in Equity Method Investment 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 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Consolidated Entities [Member] Consolidated Entities [Member] 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] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] 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 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 Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Schedule of 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] Support Equipment and Facilities [Member] Support Equipment and Facilities [Member] Land and improvements Land and Land Improvements [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life