How does system inertia affect generator performance?

System inertia plays a critical role in the performance of generators within an electrical grid by contributing to frequency stability during disturbances. When there is a sudden change in load or a generation loss, inertia from synchronous generators acts as a buffer, providing kinetic energy that helps maintain the system's frequency. This is particularly important in scenarios such as faults or rapid demand changes, where the inertia can help to smooth out fluctuations and prevent rapid frequency drops.

Generators equipped with high inertia can react more effectively to these disturbances, allowing for a steadying effect that supports the system's frequency. The energy stored in the moving mass of these generators helps to counteract the immediate effects of disturbances, ultimately maintaining balance between supply and demand more effectively.

The other options, while they may address aspects of generator performance, do not accurately depict the role of system inertia in providing stability and support. Understanding the concept of inertia is vital for managing grid stability, especially as the share of renewable energy sources, which typically have lower or no inertia, continues to grow within the energy mix.