THE BALLARAT Foundation's seven-star low energy charity home was officially opened in Alfredton yesterday.The result of months of planning, hard work and construction, the house is a collaborative effort between The Ballarat Foundation, Integra Group and the University of Ballarat. Its construction highlights many sustainable design options available for residential living.For the next three months the home will be open to the public on weekends between 1pm and 5pm and weekdays by appointment before being sold, with proceeds going to The Ballarat Foundation."The home's eventual sale will further support the work of The Ballarat Foundation throughout the region," foundation chairman James Coghlan said.The home was opened by Foundation for Regional and Rural Renewal chairman Ian Sinclair who said Ballarat was "setting a pace" with these types of projects.The University of Ballarat has advised on the project, recommending sustainable features and giving a cost-benefit-analysis.The cost saving analysis has been put together in a booklet that will be distributed to visitors.The house achieved a seven-star rating through the use of innovative energy saving products and methods, such as a solar hot water system, energy efficient lighting, extra insulation, water saving showerheads, toilets and taps, an underground water tank, natural gas central heating system, photovoltaic solar panels, grey water diverter, double glazed windows, light sensors and motion detectors, 100 per cent wool carpet, EcoVision monitoring system, split system air-conditioner, eaves and sealed exhaust fans.The project had the backing and support of 40 local contributors and suppliers"Now the project is complete I would encourage the Ballarat community to visit the home and discover the wide range of low-energy and sustainable living options available," Mr Coghlan said."The home demonstrates that even by making small changes to our homes we can reduce energy use and lessen the burden on the environment," he said.