Hybrid synchronous/induction generator power plant

A power generation plant (10) comprising a power generating unit (12) that includes at least one first generator, such as an induction generator (20), coupled to at least one synchronous generator (18) having a rotor (22) with a superconducting (SC) coil (32). The induction generator (20) and the SC synchronous generator (18) are coupled so that the SC synchronous generator (18) supplies the induction generator (20) with reactive power. Sufficient reactive power is preferably generated by the SC synchronous generator (18) to meet the demand of the induction generator (20) for VARs, as well as permit the induction generator (20) to have a relatively large airgap (30).