The future of natural gas drilling is arguably the biggest energy controversy facing the state, and Secretary Chu echoed the position of the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation, saying that it can be done safely, with the proper environmental regulations.

As for the re-licensing of the Indian Point Nuclear Power plant, Secretary Chu said it’s a local issue for New Yorkers to decide, but he added that nuclear power is part of a broader national energy strategy to develop both fossil fuels and renewables.

Secretary Chu says the administration’s “all of the above” energy strategy has its critics.

“Every form of energy has people who are against it,” Chu said. "As you know, people are against solar farms in the desert, they’re against wind turbines, they’re against hydro.”

You can watch the full interview with Secretary Chu this weekend on New York NOW. Check your local PBS station for listings.