The MAESHA project is a large-scale demonstration and replication initiative under the EU Clean Energy framework. It brings together partners from research, technology, public administration, and civil society to enable high shares of renewable energy in island contexts through locally adapted approaches. Mayotte serves as the main demonstration site, with additional islands acting as replication cases.

Mayotte — a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean — faces closely interconnected energy and social challenges. A large share of the population lives in precarious conditions, access to essential services is uneven, and climate risks further strain already fragile infrastructure.

In this context, the energy transition is closely linked to questions of access, affordability, and social development. Decentralised solutions and energy communities offer important pathways to improve energy security and strengthen local value creation.

Hudara’s work within MAESHA combines technological solutions with community-based approaches and supports the development of locally anchored energy communities:

• The Clean Mobility Community provides emission-free e-bikes as an alternative to private transport while creating local jobs through maintenance and operations.
• The Solar Mamas bring solar energy solutions to households without electricity and run local energy and repair services.
• The Social Housing Community integrates renewable energy into social housing and uses feed-in revenues to support community activities.
• The Student Awareness Community raises awareness of climate change and the energy transition through education and workshops.
• The Collective Interest Community promotes sustainable mobility by bringing together diverse local actors in a cooperative structure.