Abstract: A slip ring unit for an electric generator is provided. The slip ring unit includes a slip ring attachable to a rotor shaft of the electric generator, a plurality of sliding contacts arranged along a circumference of the slip ring, to provide an electrical connection with the slip ring, at least one temperature sensor for measuring a temperature inside the slip ring unit, a fan for providing a cooling flow in the slip ring unit, and a controller connected to the fan for controlling the cooling flow rate generated by the fan, the controller being connected to the at least one temperature sensor. The at least one temperature sensor is attached to at least a holder for supporting the sliding contacts. The controller is configured in such a way that the cooling flow rate is generated depending on the temperature measured by the at least one temperature sensor.