The UAE's focus on clean energy as a strategic priority has "empowered" the whole country to become a number 1 leader in energy efficiency, according to the energy and infrastructure minister.

The UAE has initiated to become a leader in reducing natural resource consumption, offering alternative solutions and driving sustainable development, said Suhail Al Mazrouei in comments reported by state news agency Wam.

"The UAE utilize efforts towards diversifying energy sources as it is the foundation of achieving a balance between sustainable development and environmental preservation," Suhail Al Mazrouei said.

Opec's 3rd largest oil producer is planning to substantially increase its clean energy production as part of its energy transition efforts. The country plans to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix to 50% by 2050.

The UAE also started commercial power generation at the Barakah nuclear power plant earlier in April month. Mr Suhail Al Mazrouei said the plant was "1 of the many progressive renewable energy projects launched by the UAE".

As part of its Energy Strategy 2050, the UAE is also aiming to increase consumption efficiency by 40%. The Emirates plans to lower the carbon footprint of power generation by 70%, reduce demand for water resources by 21%and increase water productivity.

The country also plans to rise the reuse of treated water to 95% and maintain the national water storage capacity for up to 2 days.

The UAE was ranked among the top 20 countries in 8 competitiveness indices related to climate change and environment last year, according to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre.

The country was placed 1st in the Environmental Laws Index in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook and 1st globally in the Satisfaction about Environment Protection Efforts Index in the Legatum Prosperity Report.

It was ranked 9th in the Pollution Problems Index and 17th in the Sustainable Development Index. The UAE ranked 15th in the Reduction of Ocean Water Pollution Index.