An electric power generation system including an engine, an electrical generator, and a system controller. The engine is configured to produce mechanical power and includes an engine controller and a turbocharger for raising air pressure to a boost pressure. The turbocharger is controlled by the engine controller during steady state operation of the system. The electrical generator is mechanically connected to the engine and converts mechanical power into electrical power. The system controller is configured to receive a signal indicative of an electrical load on the generator. During a transient condition during which the electrical load increases, the system controller is configured to directly control the turbocharger in order to change the configuration of the turbocharger in order to increase boost pressure.