Rob Simmons is the Carbon Science Initiative Director at the University of Utah’s Energy and Geoscience Institute (EGI). Rob focuses on the development and commercial deployment of EGI’s carbon science research, especially geologic carbon sequestration. In the 2022 Utah Legislative Session, Rob was key to developing and passing HB Bill 244 Geological Carbon Sequestration, which provides a policy and permitting pathway for commercial carbon sequestration projects in Utah.

Rob is an attorney with over 20 years of policy experience, including serving as former Utah Governor Gary Herbert’s Energy Advisor.  During his seven years with Governor Herbert’s energy office he provided strategic energy analysis and planning, and informed legislation to advance affordable, reliable and cleaner energy throughout the state.