Halogen lamps do not require a ballast nor do they ever use ballast. CFL lights have there own ballast built into them. The tube style florescent do require ballast, but each ballast does a specific type of lamp and number of bulbs. HPS & MH do also take ballast, but each ballast is dependent on the type of wattage of the lamp. So yes that ballast is probably junk. If you are not sure in the electrical area do not hook something up unless you don't care about a fire. Most likely the breaker will trip first and stop this, but you never know. I hope this helps, but I'm sure its not what you where looking for. I bet you wanted to hear that "Oh this is perfect for your 1000W HPS or MH"
Nope not for what you want it for. You could light up your driveway with it though..