diff --git a/start_ocean.sh b/start_ocean.sh
index 27c61cb..5e0571c 100755
--- a/start_ocean.sh
+++ b/start_ocean.sh
@@ -90,8 +90,7 @@ else
 fi
 
 #export OPERATOR_SERVICE_URL=http://127.0.0.1:8050
-export OPERATOR_SERVICE_URL=https://c2d-dev.operator.oceanprotocol.com/
-
+export OPERATOR_SERVICE_URL=${OPERATOR_SERVICE_URL:-"https://c2d-dev.operator.oceanprotocol.com/"}
 
 # Add aquarius to /etc/hosts
 # Workaround mainly for macOS