Abstract This introduction briefly outlines the potential impact of igneous processes on sedimentary basins and their energy resources. The associated volume includes contributions across a range of scales; from margin-wide rifting to impacts on reservoir quality. The impact of igneous systems on elements such as tectonics, heat flow, hydrocarbon (and other) fluid charge, structuration and reservoirs are reviewed with a direct impact on hydrocarbon exploration and production, geothermal and carbon capture storage projects. A strong understanding of these commonly overlooked, igneous processes is likely to enable successful exploration for additional energy resources such as frontier hydrocarbons, geothermal heat, hydrogen as well as helium.