The implications of energy transitions extend beyond the often-discussed effects on jobs and retraining opportunities for workers in the carbon-intensive industries. This paper argues that the concept of justice as recognition has an untapped potential for exploring diverse types of injustices that have not received sufficient attention so far. This paper contributes to the critical discussion of the concept of recognition-based energy justice by considering recognition theory by Fraser, which has become an established approach in energy justice literature, and other recognition theories, which have already been discussed in environmental justice literature, in the context of energy transitions. Five conceptions of recognition are distinguished: the understanding of recognition as (a) equal standing without cultural domination, disrespect, and non-recognition; (b) deeper inclusion (inclusive narratives, rhetoric and greetings); (c) respect for identity and culture; (d) self-esteem; and (e) the absence of violence. The conceptual discussion is followed by an empirical analysis of recognition-based justice in the case of the planned coal phase-out in Poland. Building on semi-structured interviews with stakeholders and diverse texts, the analysis demonstrates that in the case of the planned coal phase-out in Poland, three aspects of recognition may be particularly relevant – non-recognition in energy transitions, the self-esteem of local communities, and respect for culture and identity. The paper then argues that a pluralist approach to studies of recognition in energy transitions based on awareness about socio-cultural contexts of studied cases is necessary.