The invention relates to a low-load operation method for operating a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine, in particular a uniflow-scavenged dual-fuel two-stroke large diesel engine having an outlet valve which is hydraulically actuable via a valve hydraulic system at a predefined opening pressure by means of a hydraulic medium. According to the present disclosure, in a low-load range between 0% and 25% of a maximum engine load, the internal combustion engine is operated in a gas mode, wherein the exhaust valve of the internal combustion engine is opened at a crank angle between 15° and 90° after top dead centre (eEVO).
