True decentralization is free market competition and the enemy of free market competition is barriers to entry. Proof of work is a barrier to entry.
Proof of work is like slicing meat for a sandwich.
Sandwich is like free market.
I want my meat to be sliced in the same thin sizes.
No competition whatsoever.
I want choices of meat and vegetables.
I do not want competition in my sandwich.
I want competition between sandwiches.
You broke the metaphor and now you have to fix it.