Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Member] Consolidated Entities [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] March 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Nature of Business Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Business Acquisitions [Abstract] Business Acquisitions [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Statement Statement [Line Items] Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [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] 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 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] 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] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] 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. Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] Represents the GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC which wholly-owns GenConn Energy LLC. 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] NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 2 [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 RENOM [Member] NRG RENOM [Member] NRG Renew Operations & Maintenance LLC 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 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 Revenues Revenue from Related Parties Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] CP Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounts receivable — trade Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable — affiliate Due from Affiliate, Current Inventory Inventory, Net Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Prepayments and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets 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 Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Other Assets Total Assets Assets Current portion of long-term debt — external Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current 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 Long-term debt — affiliate 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 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 Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets Derivative Asset Derivative Asset Utah Portfolio [Member] Utah Portfolio [Member] Utah Portfolio [Member] Four Brothers Solar [Member] Four Brothers Solar [Member] Four Brothers Solar [Member] Granite Mountain Holdings [Member] Granite Mountain Holdings [Member] Granite Mountain Holdings [Member] Iron Springs Holdings [Member] Iron Springs Holdings [Member] Iron Springs Holdings [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco 1 [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] Total operating revenues Revenues Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Assets, Noncurrent Assets, Noncurrent Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Successor [Member] Successor [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Reclassified from accumulated OCL to income due to realization of previously deferred amounts Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Mark-to-market of cash flow hedge accounting contracts Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Losses expected to be realized from OCL during the next 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net 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] 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] 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 Policies [Abstract] 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] 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. 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. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Capital contributions from tax equity investors, net of distributions Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Distributions to NRG for NRG Wind TE Holdco Payments of Capital Distribution Comprehensive loss Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership 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 Intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Proceeds from the issuance of Class C units Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Investment Banking, Advisory, Brokerage, and Underwriting Fees and Commissions Investment Banking, Advisory, Brokerage, and Underwriting Fees and Commissions ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining ATM program, dollar value of shares remaining Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] 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] 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 Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Equity Interest Type [Axis] Equity Interest Type [Axis] Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Type [Domain] Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Type [Domain] Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Capital Unit, Class B [Member] Capital Unit, Class B [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Payments for the revolving credit facility Repayments of Lines of Credit Net contributions from noncontrolling interests Intercompany transactions between Yield LLC and subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Intercompany (Payments to) Receipts from Consolidated Subsidiaries Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Cash receipts from notes receivable Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivables Return of investment from unconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Investments in unconsolidated affiliates Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net distributions and return of capital to NRG prior to the acquisition of Drop Down Assets Transfer of funds under intercompany cash management arrangement Proceeds from Payments to Intercompany Loans The cash inflow or outflow associated with intercompany loans for related parties. Payments of distributions Payments of Dividends Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt — external Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payments of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Proceeds from the revolving credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Payments for long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net Decrease in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Exchange Rate Effect Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at Beginning of Period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at End of Period Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method and Variable Interest Entities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Noncontrolling interest Members' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net Income Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized loss on derivatives Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income Attributable to NRG Yield LLC Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 2 [Member] Agua Caliente [Member] Agua Caliente [Member] Agua Caliente [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Libor Rate Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Percentage of NRG's Ownership Percentage of NRG's Ownership Percentage of NRG's Ownership 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. Power Purchase Agreement Period Power Purchase Agreement Period Represents the period of power purchase agreement Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Remaining Power Purchase Agreement term Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Non-Recourse Debt Non-Recourse Debt 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, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Debt Issuance Costs, Net Debt Issuance Costs, Net Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] August 2017 Drop Down Assets [Member] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] 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] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] 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. Commodity Contract Non Current [Member] Commodity Contract Non Current [Member] The noncurrent 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 Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability Derivative Liability Fair Value of Gross Derivative Assets/(Liabilities), Net Fair Value of Gross Derivative Assets/(Liabilities), Net Fair value of gross derivative assets less fair value of gross derivative liabilities. Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives 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 Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] 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] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series F Notes [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Utah Solar Portfolio, due 2022 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 1, due 2038 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 1, due 2038 [Member] Agua Caliente Borrower 1, due 2038 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] 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 Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt 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), Net of Tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Operating Costs and Expenses Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Revenue Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs 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. 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) 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 Acquisition of Drop Down Assets Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Proceeds from Issuance of Class C units Payments of (Proceeds from) distributions Payments of (Proceeds from) distributions Payments of (Proceeds from) distributions Schedule of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization [Table Text Block] 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] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy 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] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs Total operating costs and expenses Operating Income Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Other income, net Interest expense Total other expense, net Net Income Attributable to NRG Yield LLC CP Income Statement [Abstract] CP Income Statement [Abstract] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2026 [Member] Senior Notes Senior Notes 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 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] Thermal [Member] Renewables Renewables [Member] Renewables [Member] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating revenues Cost of operations Operating Expenses Interest expense Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [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] 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 LLC NRG GenConn Middletown GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] Marsh Landing Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avra Valley Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] Represents NRG Solar Blythe LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Borrego Borrego [Member] Borrego [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Roadrunner NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] 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] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] 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] Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] Conventional Generation, Utility-Scale Solar, Distributed Solar, and Wind [Member] Distributed Solar Distributed Solar [Member] Distributed solar generation capacity. 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 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 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. Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts and Megawatt Thermal Equivalent Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts and Megawatt Thermal Equivalent Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts and Megawatt Thermal Equivalent Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Weighted Average Remaining PPA Term Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts attributed to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts attributed to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts attributed to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Derivative instruments — affiliate Derivative Asset, Current Total current assets Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Less accumulated depreciation Property, plant and equipment, net Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Intangible assets, net Derivative instruments 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 CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] CVSR Holdco due 2037 [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Revenues Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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 Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [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] 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. NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series D Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series D Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis Series D Notes [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] 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] 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] 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, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Current portion of long-term debt — external Deferred Finance Costs, Net Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities 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] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Amortization of financing costs Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Amortization of intangibles and out-of-market contracts Amortization of Intangibles and Out of Market Contracts The aggregate (income) expense recorded in earnings to allocate the cost of out-of-market contracts and intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash (income) expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by (used in) operations using the indirect method. Changes in derivative instruments Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities Loss on disposal of asset components Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Changes in prepaid and accrued liabilities for tolling agreements Changes in Prepaid and Accrued Capacity Payments Changes in Prepaid and Accrued Capacity Payments Changes in other working capital Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests Net Cash Used in Financing Activities