Because of the complex and frequent multi-operation conditions of pumped storage machine and the difficulty of its numerical analysis, an optimized network parameter method (ONPM) is given to identify the second harmonic electromagnetic torque of large salient-pole generators. Different from the former research which only considers the positive and negative sequence components, the second harmonic electromagnetic torque of pumped storage machine under power generation state is identified in neutral point grounded system, which are displayed by the lumped parameters. Then, in order to test the validity of the theoretical analysis among power generation salient-pole generators, the finite element model of 300 MVA pumped storage machine under power generation is established. Through the comparison and analysis of the finite element result data with the actual experimental data in the steady state of no-load test and short-circuit test, the correctness of the finite element model is completely verified. Finally, in the case of small current asymmetry and large current asymmetry, the second harmonic electromagnetic torques obtained by ONPM and finite element method (FEM) are found respectively, and their relative errors are elaborately displayed. The results display that ONPM can accurately identify the electromagnetic torque parameters which indicate the specific operation and fault state of pumped storage machine under power generation state. This fault parameter identification has practical significance for monitoring and improving the operation state and stability of large salient-pole generator.