The homes have photovoltaic roof tiles to provide electricity

The five houses and six apartments feature energy-saving ideas such as solar-powered hot water and loft insulation made from sheep's wool.

The properties are heated by a recovery ventilation system which extracts air from the kitchen and bathroom and transfers it to the living areas.

All the homes have received top National Home Energy Ratings (NHER).

Poundbury was conceived by the prince to inspire town planning and design and built on land owned by the Duchy of Cornwall.

Rainwater harvested

It is meant to represents his vision of a sustainable and inclusive community with integrated affordable, social and private housing.

Last year the prince spent his 58th birthday in the village, giving a tour to Chinese business leaders and Prince Albert of Monaco.

Other energy-saving ideas used in the properties include harvesting rainwater for use in flushing toilets and photovoltaic roof tiles, which provide one third of the homes' annual electricity demand.