Abstract: A power-generating installation comprises a plurality of modular power plants each comprised of an internal combustion engine connected to an electric machine. The electric machine is used to start the engine and thereafter operates as a generator supplying power to an electrical network common to all the modular plants. The installation has a control and protection system comprising a plurality of control modules each associated with a respective plant, and a central unit passing control signals to the modules to control starting and stopping of the individual power plants. Upon the detection of abnormal operation or failure of its associated power plant, each control module transmits an alarm signal back to the central unit which thereupon stops, or prevents the starting, of the corresponding power plant. Parameters monitored by each control module include generated current and inter-winding leakage current of the electric machine.