A set of generators are connected in parallel using a generator bus. At least one of the generators is associated with a controller. The controller detects an overload condition on the generator bus caused by a load and disconnects an initial generator from the generator bus in response to the overload condition. The initial generator continues to run during the overload condition after disconnecting from the generator bus but alternator excitation may be removed from the initial generator. The controller initiates starting one or more additional generator without alternator excitation. The controller also initiates connecting the initial generator and the one or more additional generators to the generator bus connected to the load. Alternator excitation is applied to the initial generator and the one or more additional generator so that adequate power may be applied to the load.