Energy transition is a part of a much wider Grand Transition, which is not all about energy. Energy transition cannot be achieved all at once or by any one actor. Relying only on better energy modelling and forecasting to guide successful transition will be fatal, even in a data-rich era. It is timely for energy leaders to ask: Are global energy scenarios achieving their potential in opening up action on new energy futures? How do the Council’s World Energy Scenarios compare with global energy outlooks, scenarios and normative visions used by others and what can learn by contrasting the increasing richness of energy futures thinking?