You've got a perfect storm:

Environmentalists and others pressuring the world to stop burning hydrocarbons.
vs.
The entire world population wanting more energy, with burning hydrocarbons the easiest, direct route.

Guess what, there are fewer 'undeveloped nations' any more; they are developing like mad and good for them.

When there is a stupendous new demand for a commodity, but corporations are barred from filling it, you get an explosion in price. It's not a mystery.

Price here in Southern California is about 4.00/4.50/4.75  US Gal.

::::: Opera :::::