Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-161187 on Form S-8 and Registration Statement No. 333-186822 on Form S-3 of our report dated February 28, 2014 relating to the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of Renewable Energy Group, Inc. and subsidiaries, and the effectiveness of Renewable Energy Group, Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Renewable Energy Group, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2013.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Des Moines, Iowa

February 28, 2014