I am currently studying the sustainable shift towards clean energy in the context of a just energy transition and community-based research. The clean energy transition's main goal is to work towards phasing out fossil fuel and shifting energy production towards clean and renewable energy sources. This promotes sustainable practices in mitigating climate change, conserving natural resources and sustainable, equitable economic growth. If done successfully, long term economic, environmental and health benefits are expected. However, the current energy system and energy planning processes are rooted in inequalities that disproportionately affect low income and minority communities. Oftentimes these communities are found to bear the burdens that exist within the current energy system. The concept of a just energy transition works towards combining the clean energy transition with energy justice principles to make sure these benefits are distributed equitably. This raises the question of how the United States should alter the way energy decisions and policies are created to successfully end the disparities that exist. This study aims to show how community-based participatory research can further the justice-centered energy planning. Community-based participatory research is a form of research between academics and affected communities in order to gain valuable insight on the communities researchers aim to help.This research is done in the context of the implementation of demand response programs in the moderate to low income, minority community of Holyoke, MA. Participants participated in a workshop consisting of game-based activities that aimed to both teach participants about demand response, as well as, gather data on participants' specific views and concerns. These results are meant to capture how specific information from affected stakeholders can aid in creating effective, long lasting and sustainable policies not only in the context of demand response but in other aspects of the just energy transition.