Shilao's podcast had a long discussion about LHD/LPD platforms last week. It covered a lot from the LHDs, helicopter carriers and other things. A lot of interesting stuff there.
They covered this civilian semi-submersible's usage as a landing/repairs/replenishment platform
It was mentioned that they could stay these in South and East China Sea to give PLA more flexible options in a Taiwan scenario. Also, that they are unlikely to use 071/075 in Taiwan Straits, but are more likely to be stationed on East side of Taiwan. As such, these platforms can be used to aid helicopter operation. They have quite a few of these and they are quite attributable. Just as importantly, they are actually not that easy to target/sink either given the lack of structure in the middle. Having more of these during time of war would allow them to have more aviation assets in assault, transportation, ASW and sea controlling roles.
They also discussed quite extensively about Z-8C. It was thought to be a conservative design that was developed to make sure that Type 075 can have a helicopter that can be produced in large numbers and have reasonable endurance. Due to PLA's need for more Z-8L helicopters, PLAN will have to wait a while for a more capable version of medium-heavy helicopter to enter service. They also want to make sure to save up enough PW engines for Z-8L.
They also discussed having Z-20, Z-10, UAV, helicopter drones on Type 075. In general, China does not have a F-35B or MV-22 equivalent. Nor does it have something like CH-53E/K. As such, in order to achieve its desired goals on Type 075/076, it will need to be more creative in how it employs them. I think this is where the EMAL on Type 076 discussions come from.