Within the article, basic assumptions of the research project financed by Regional Fund for Environmental Protection and Water in Gdansk were described. The project concerns the experimental investigations carried out on laboratory compression-ignition engine in conditions of its supply with a non-standard marine fuel oil. Configuration and measuring capability of laboratory test bed presently being constructed were introduced. The concept of engine tests implementation as well as a general outline of research methodology was characterised. After being accepted by Polish Committee for Stardarization they could become an effective and efficient verification tool for various types of modified fuel oils introduced on the market, both for the maritime administration officies and shipyards as well as ship owners in operation.